Gunupur, Sept 2: As the monsoon arrives, flocks of migratory birds begin descending on the banks of the Vansadhara River in Valeri area of Gunupur in Rayagada district. Their arrival turns the riverbank into a lively habitat filled with the sounds of chirping birds.

The birds reportedly arrive in large numbers before the onset of the monsoon and stay in the area until winter. During their stay, they lay eggs and raise their young before returning to their native habitats along with their offspring.

The sight has become a seasonal attraction for villagers, who say these winged visitors have been arriving in the area for more than 70 years. Locals have traditionally helped protect the birds and ensure that they can move around safely.

The wide and deep stretch of the Vansadhara River in this area retains water throughout the year, making it an ideal shelter and feeding ground for the birds. However, locals allege that the number of birds has declined this year compared to previous years due to threats from poachers.

The migratory birds, which began arriving in June, have now laid eggs. Following demands from villagers, arrangements have reportedly been made for two local residents to protect the birds for four months every year. However, villagers allege that payments for two months of the previous year are still pending.

Chandrasekhar Mahapatra, local resident

Amid concerns over forest degradation and wildlife protection, the continued arrival of these birds offers hope for nature lovers. Locals believe stronger protection measures could turn the area into an important bird habitat and potentially develop it as an alternative destination to Chilika for bird lovers and tourists.

Bird enthusiasts have also demanded that the area be given greater protection and developed as a bird sanctuary. They believe proper conservation measures could not only protect the migratory birds but also boost the tourism potential of the region.

Suryanarayan Panda, Bird Lover

Despite repeated concerns from locals, a response from the Forest Department could not be obtained. The focus now remains on whether the department will take stronger steps to protect the birds and preserve this unique seasonal habitat.