Wildlife Protection / Chilika Tightens Security ahead of Migratory Bird Season

Puri, Oct 8: As winter approaches, Odisha’s famed Chilika Lake is preparing to welcome its annual guests — thousands of migratory birds from Siberia, Kazakhstan, the Himalayas, and Central Asia.

To ensure their safety, the Forest Department has stepped up vigilance with strict anti‑poaching measures and round‑the‑clock monitoring.

Every year, from October to March, lakhs of birds flock to Chilika in search of food and safe shelter, escaping harsh snowfalls in colder regions.

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To provide them a secure haven, the Forest Department has intensified its protection strategy. Balugaon DFO Amlan Nayak informed media that comprehensive security arrangements have been put in place across the lake.

Chilika has been divided into 22 zones under Balugaon, Tangi, Rambha, Chilika Nuapada, and Satpada ranges. A total of 24 security camps have been set up — Rambha (3), Balugaon (4), Nuapada (2), Satpada (4), and Tangi (11). Each camp is manned by an in‑charge and 3–4 staff members.

In addition, mobile squads, land patrol units, and control rooms have been deployed in Tangi and Balugaon ranges.

Temporary anti‑poaching camps have also been established in key bird habitats such as Mangalajodi and Nalabana.

Forest guards and security personnel are conducting regular patrols using speed boats and traditional country boats to keep poachers at bay. Local bird clubs, fishermen, and environmentalists have been roped in to assist with surveillance.

The department has warned that strict action will be taken under the Wildlife Protection Act against anyone found involved in bird hunting or illegal trade. Compared to previous years, officials say greater emphasis has been placed on bird safety this season.