Kolkata: Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA), the agency that oversees the upkeep of Rabindra Sarobar, has suspended the unseasonal clean-up of Paddapukur, a water body inside the Sarobar grounds, after birders raised the alarm that the activity could destroy nesting sites of aquatic birds during the breeding season. TOI had reported on the issue on Sunday, highlighting the risk posed by clearing aquatic vegetation at this time of the year.On Tuesday, birders spotted a bronze-winged jacana with chicks and a white-breasted moorhen at the pond, reinforcing concerns that the waterbody is currently being used by breeding birds. The cleanup had begun last Saturday but was stopped after bird enthusiasts urged the authorities to halt the work.Birder Nandita Sarkar, who had first flagged the issue, said she was relieved that the cleaning of the lotus pond had been stopped. “The waterbirds can now rear their chicks without threat. On Tuesday morning, I saw bronze-winged jacanas foraging with the chicks. We must care for our environment and its inhabitants, not only humans but also birds and other organisms,” she said.Rabindra Sarobar staff said the water near the pond’s eastern edge had already been cleaned before an order was issued to stop the activity. The order came after authorities took note of concerns raised by birders over the possible damage to nests and habitats. Birders said plants in Paddapukur provide critical nesting cover and food support for several species.“The clean-up had posed a serious threat to the inhabitants of the lake and the avian fauna that use these aquatic plants to make their nests and help their little ones survive. It is a favourite breeding habitat and supports a diverse population of flora and fauna,” said birder Avijit Dutta.He added that the vegetation supports a food chain by providing algae, small aquatic insects and small fish, which are essential for birds and other organisms living in the water body.Veteran birder Sudip Ghosh, who has been photographing birds at Rabindra Sarobar for over 15 years, said the authorities should be more sensitive while handling environmental matters.Nirvan Jain, another avid bird watcher, was happy that KMDA responded to the clarion call from birders. “As someone who enjoys birdwatching and photography, I have seen how important aquatic vegetation is for birds, especially during the breeding season. What may look like weeds to us can actually be nesting and feeding habitats for birds and their chicks. Of course, plastic and garbage should be removed, but such work should be carefully planned and carried out at a time when it causes the least disturbance to birds and other wildlife,” he remarked.
