Authorities have ramped up surveillance at Akera-Kotla Lake in Nuh, Gurgaon. This action follows clear directions from the National Green Tribunal. A wildlife department team conducted a detailed survey on Wednesday. They removed illegal nets that were being used to trap migratory birds.
Forest Officer Explains Inspection Purpose
Divisional Forest Officer R K Jangra provided details about the operation. He stated the inspection was part of an action-taken report for the tribunal. "Our team surveyed the area as directed by the NGT," Jangra said. "We removed all nets found at the site. Further surveillance will continue to prevent any recurrence."
Petition Highlights Lack of Protection
The enforcement stems from a petition filed by activist Vaishali Rana. Her plea alleged rampant bird poaching and encroachment at the Kotla-Akera wetland. It also highlighted the lack of legal protection for this important site. The petition noted the wetland supports several migratory and threatened bird species. Yet it remains officially unrecognized by authorities.
Notices regarding this plea were issued to both the Centre and the Haryana government. Rana pointed out that basic safeguards are still missing on the ground. "There are no warning signs declaring the lake a sensitive habitat," she explained. "This weakens deterrence and allows hunting to continue discreetly."
Recent FIR and Increased Vigilance
The lake has been under close watch since last month. An FIR was registered over the hunting of migratory birds. Forest staff acted on a complaint by a wildlife inspector. They registered a case against unknown persons under the Wildlife Protection Act. Officials dismantled nets laid across the wetland during that operation.
"We increased vigilance after repeated instances of illegal trapping," an official stated. "Similar nets were removed about ten days ago. Fresh attempts prompted us to monitor the area more closely."
Plans for Sustained Protection
Officials outlined their plans for ongoing protection of the wetland. The department will conduct sustained surveillance and joint patrols with police. They plan awareness programs in nearby villages. Installation of warning boards is also on the agenda.
"Continued on-ground presence will be crucial," officials emphasized. "This is necessary to prevent poaching activities effectively."
Ecological Importance of Kotla Lake
Kotla Lake spreads across nearly 108 acres in the Aravalis. It serves as a seasonal habitat for hundreds of birds. Migratory species include northern pintails, little cormorants and wood sandpipers. These birds travel thousands of kilometers during winter months.
Earlier this year, reports indicated the wildlife department filed a complaint against 23 people. Most were locals allegedly poaching birds at the lake. They were reportedly selling these birds to buyers including hoteliers.
