Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has announced a groundbreaking initiative to establish the state’s first bird museum near Chilika Lake, a renowned biodiversity hotspot and an important destination for migratory birds.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida made the announcement while inaugurating the 5th National Chilika Bird Festival on Monday. This year’s festival, which runs until January 12, coincides with the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas being held in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10.
The potential sites for the museum include Chilika, Barkul, and Nalabana, which are known for their rich avian diversity. The proposed museum will aim to showcase the unique ecosystem of Chilika Lake, emphasizing its significance as a habitat for numerous bird species and fostering a deeper understanding of the region’s ecological wealth.
Deputy Chief Minister Parida, who also holds the Tourism portfolio, highlighted the collaboration between the Tourism Department and the Chilika Development Authority (CDA) in creating a comprehensive masterplan for the museum. She stressed the importance of sustainable conservation efforts and the promotion of eco-tourism in preserving the lake’s fragile environment.
Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, spans the districts of Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam. It is globally recognized for hosting thousands of migratory birds each year. Last year, the lake welcomed over 11.37 lakh birds from 187 different species, traveling from regions as far as Siberia, Russia, Mongolia, and Central and Southeast Asia.
The 5th National Chilika Bird Festival offers visitors an opportunity to explore the rich avian life through activities like bird watching, photography, and interactive sessions with experts. This initiative underscores Odisha’s commitment to promoting environmental awareness and preserving its natural heritage for future generations.
