Bird monitoring at Rampura and Kalkere tanks

Rampura Tank

Kalkere Marsh

Urban wetlands, natural and man-made, have long been the lifeline of most cities in India. Apart from playing host to various flora and fauna, they facilitate a sufficient supply of water for domestic use, and are closely connected with the life and traditions of the people. Rises in population and industrial growth have, however, resulted in the depletion of these areas, both due to encroachment and pollution. Karnataka has about 44,000 man-made wetlands constructed over centuries, and about 328 are threatened today. A Rocha India conducted a preliminary survey of plants, birds and butterflies in Rampura and Kalkere tanks in the suburbs of Bangalore city in April 2003 and a report was published in June 2003. This study has encouraged two students of Mount Carmel College, Bangalore, to volunteer with us, and a detailed one year survey is presently being conducted by these students. The program is coordinated by Dr Indrani Suryaprakash.

Bird watching

In an effort to bring the plight of these tanks to the notice of the nature lovers of Bangalore, a bird watching program was organised at the tanks on 8 May 2004. Around 30 individuals from various walks of life participated in the program, which helped the enthusiast know the bird life in the area and also to understand the importance of lakes to the survival of the people living around these tanks. The trip highlighted the status of the tanks and the various life forms associated with it, particularly bird life. The participants were exposed to the human interference in the system through the inlet of sewage and dumping of garbage into the lakes. The program was an inspiration and an eye-opener to all participants, especially students, regarding the opportunities open to them to help in the conservation of nature by volunteering their services.

Copies of the preliminary report are available in .pdf format. Please write to india@arocha.org for your copy.