Ganjam Forest Officials Launch Summer Water Initiative for Wildlife
In response to escalating temperatures, forest authorities in Ganjam district have implemented comprehensive measures to ensure wild animals and birds, particularly endangered blackbucks and peacocks, have access to drinking water. This proactive conservation effort aims to prevent dehydration and related fatalities during the harsh summer months.
Extensive Infrastructure Development Across Forest Divisions
The Ghumusar South forest division has seen significant activity, with officials establishing more than 230 new saucer pits in strategic locations. Additionally, four new water bodies and six check dams have been constructed this year alone. Existing water reservoirs have undergone thorough renovation to better serve the needs of local wildlife.
Himasu Sekhar Mohanty, the Divisional Forest Officer for Ghumusar North, reported parallel developments in his jurisdiction. "We have built seven new water harvesting structures, six additional water bodies, and five fresh saucer-shaped ditches in the Ghumusar North division this year," Mohanty stated. "Furthermore, we have renovated 15 existing water bodies to enhance their capacity and accessibility."
Targeted Saucer Pits for Blackbuck Conservation
Forest officers are strategically placing saucer pits in villages adjacent to forest areas, including Aska, Buguda, Polasara, and Bargarh forest ranges. These pits measure approximately two feet in length, one foot in width, and less than a foot in depth. They are specifically designed to cater to the large populations of blackbucks roaming these regions.
"Forest staff diligently refill these saucer pits with water every alternate day to maintain a consistent supply," explained a forest officer. "While primarily intended for blackbucks, these water sources also benefit numerous other animal species and birds struggling with thirst during peak summer."
Officials confirm that there have been no reported deaths of blackbucks or other animals in the district due to water scarcity this season, highlighting the effectiveness of these interventions.
Ganjam: A Critical Habitat for Endangered Blackbucks
Ganjam district holds unique ecological significance as the only area in the state where blackbucks, classified as a Schedule 1 protected animal, are regularly sighted. The latest population count conducted in January recorded 9,287 blackbucks, with an impressive 5,972 individuals residing specifically within the Ghumusar South division.
Similarly, substantial flocks of peacocks have been observed congregating at Pakidi hill near Cheramaria in Aska, benefiting from the newly established water sources.
Community Involvement and Conservation Challenges
Amulya Upadhaya, President of the Ganjam District Blackbuck Protection Committee, emphasized the critical need for these water initiatives. "As natural water bodies in forest areas dry up, blackbucks are forced to venture into nearby villages in search of drinking water," Upadhaya noted. "This migration exposes them to threats from wild dogs and increases the risk of accidents, making artificial water sources within forest boundaries essential for their safety."
Community support has been instrumental in this conservation effort. Sameer Pradhan, President of the Peacock Protection Committee, acknowledged the role of local villagers. "Nearby residents actively assist forest staff in refilling water pits, particularly in areas frequented by peacocks," Pradhan said. "This collaborative approach strengthens our ability to protect these magnificent birds during drought conditions."
The combined efforts of forest officials, conservation committees, and local communities demonstrate a robust commitment to wildlife preservation in Ganjam, ensuring vulnerable species receive vital support through innovative water management strategies.
