While the decline in the number of species and the count of migratory birds arriving at Jayakwadi dam has baffled many, experts have blamed the alleged illegal fishing and wetland farming inside and on the fringe areas of the reservoir for causing an adverse impact on annual journeys of the winged creatures. The Jayakwadi dam was filled to 85% of live storage post the latest monsoon. The storage, which was highest in recent past, had pushed the boundaries of the reservoir by upto 5 kilometre and thereby shrinking the habitat available for migratory birds every year, opined a section of experts. While the illegal fishing has been snatching the food meant for migratory birds, the wetland farming thriving in Nathsagar has further reduced the habitat for feathery creatures. These illegal activities have also been responsible for depriving roosting and nesting for migratory birds, accused nature expert Kishor Pathak. Pathak said, “The alleged release of untreated waste water in Godavari River and its tributaries that flow in towards Jayakwadi dam was also responsible for migratory birds not considering their traditional habit for temporary dwelling.” “Parts of Aurangabad as well as 22 small and medium villages release untreated waste water into rivers that lead towards catchment areas of Jayakwadi dam. Birds instinctively avoid such impure dwellings,” he said. Dilip Bhagat, a nature expert associated with Paithan Pakshi Mitra Sanghtana, said wetland farming on the banks of Nathsagar was reducing the percentage of algae, prawns and fishes that serve as food for birds. He also raised the possibility that equally better rainfall in northern parts of the country might have provided ideal dwellings for several migratory birds. “There are chances that the birds have found suitable water bodies for migration in northern India and decided against travelling further down towards Jayakwadi dam and other popular sites,” Bhagat said, adding that somewhat delayed arrival of winter season could be one of the reasons behind lower turnout. When contacted, forest department officials said that they have already told fishermen fishing in Jayakwadi dam not to use thin nets. “We held counselling programme for fishermen and made them aware about the ill effects of using thin nets on local biodiversity. These nets catch small fishes and other flora and fauna that are unwanted catch for fishermen who hunt for large fish,”said Sanjay Bhise, range forest officer. The forest authorities said Water Resources Department will take action if such practices are on.
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