Chhattisgarh’s first Bird Safari, located at Gidhwa in the Bemetara district, is slated for inauguration on November 1st of this year. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Development and Plan), Arun Kumar Pandey, confirmed that the facility will also include a Bird Interpretation Centre. Forest and Climate Change Department, Government of Chhattisgarh is developing six wetlands at Gidhwa, Parsada, Murkuta, Eiramsahi and Kurra as the Bird Safari and Bird Interpretation Centre in Bemetara district under Durg forest division. Works are underway for developing the Bird Safari, he said. “The idea of the Bird Safari at Gidhwa was conceived, planned and execution started when I was the Member Secretary of the Biodiversity Board.

 

The proposed Bird Safari is spread over 200 acres of land. Over 100 migratory birds arrive during the winter season at Gidhwa. It is an amazing place for bird sighting in Chhattisgarh,” said PCCF Pandey. Migratory bird northern pintail starts arriving at Gidhwa from the month of October and the bird stays till Holi. Northern pintails in large number arrive at Gidhwa every year, he added. Arun Kumar Pandey, highlighting the multi-faceted benefits of the project said “The Bird Safari will play a crucial role in engaging local communities by generating employment opportunities. To support this, stay-rooms for visitors are being developed in local areas, and at least 14 bird guides are currently undergoing training to provide their expertise.

 

To ensure an immersive and eco-friendly bird-sighting experience, battery-operated rickshaws, or e-rickshaws, will be procured for tourists in the Gidhwa Bird Safari. Beyond tourism, the Bird Safari is envisioned as a catalyst for overall well-being and environmental awareness. Pandey emphasized that this form of ecotourism offers numerous advantages, including mental health benefits such as reduced stress and anxiety, and improved cognitive function. Furthermore, the safari will provide opportunities for physical activity through walking and hiking, contributing to cardiovascular health. Ultimately, the project seeks to foster a deeper connection with nature among visitors and promote a stronger understanding of conservation awareness.