Buxar District Magistrate Inspects Gokul Reservoir Development, Emphasizes Wetland Conservation
District Magistrate Sahila conducted a comprehensive inspection of the ongoing development activities near the Gokul reservoir in Buxar on Wednesday. During the visit, the DM issued clear directives to officials to accelerate land demarcation processes and prioritize road repair work in the area. The inspection focused particularly on the urgent need to safeguard the wetland ecosystem, which serves as a critical habitat for biodiversity.
Migratory Bird Sanctuary: A Natural Heritage Site
Describing the reservoir as a unique natural heritage site and a significant center for migratory birds, District Magistrate Sahila highlighted the ecological importance of the wetland. "Around 3,500 birds belonging to nearly 65 different species visit this wetland every year," she stated during the inspection. The visiting species include northern shoveler, garganey, ruddy shelduck, osprey, kestrel, sandpiper, yellow wagtail, and rare species such as the Egyptian vulture.
The DM further emphasized that since 2022, the Gokul reservoir has recorded the highest number of migratory bird species observed anywhere in Bihar, making it an exceptionally valuable ecological site that requires careful preservation and management.
Infrastructure Development Plans for Conservation and Tourism
Division Forest Officer of Bhojpur, Pradyuman Gaurav, informed that a detailed work plan is currently being prepared to develop essential infrastructure near the reservoir. The proposed facilities include:
- A dedicated rescue center for wildlife
- An interpretation center for educational purposes
- A tourist hub to accommodate visitors
- Observation watchtowers for bird watching
- A guest house for researchers and tourists
- Various other supporting facilities
However, for this infrastructure development to proceed, resolution of pending land records at the Chakki circle office is essential. The District Magistrate specifically directed the land reforms Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Dumraon to cancel problematic records after taking appropriate legal action, ensuring that construction activities can commence according to schedule.
Addressing Environmental Threats and Promoting Awareness
During the inspection, officials discovered that some local villagers were immersing idols and disposing of waste directly into the river, creating significant threats to aquatic life and migratory bird populations. In response, the DM instructed the Block Development Officer of Chakki and the District Council Land Revenue officer of Dumraon to construct an artificial pond nearby for proper waste disposal, thereby protecting the reservoir's ecosystem.
District Magistrate Sahila explained that wetlands function as "living museums of biodiversity" and play crucial roles in climate regulation, water purification, and flood control. "The clearing of water hyacinth and availability of open water have transformed Gokul Reservoir into an ideal habitat for birds," she noted.
To enhance environmental awareness, the DM announced that school students would be taken on educational tours to the reservoir on World Wetlands Day, fostering greater appreciation for wetland conservation among younger generations.
Coordination and Implementation
The nodal officer of the Namami Gange project received instructions to coordinate closely with the forest division to ensure all necessary arrangements are completed efficiently. Several officials were present during the inspection, including Dumraon Sub-Divisional Officer Rakesh Kumar, circle officers of Brahmapur and Chakki, and other departmental representatives, demonstrating the multi-agency approach to this conservation initiative.
The comprehensive inspection and subsequent directives reflect a growing recognition of the Gokul reservoir's ecological significance and the administration's commitment to balancing development with environmental protection in Bihar's Buxar district.
