The bird habitat at Kantital, a wetland area in Nepalgunj, is facing increased threats due to proposed motorboat operations. Conservationists have raised concerns about the impact of altering the wetland’s natural form to accommodate motorboats, which they believe could severely endanger the habitat of rare bird species.
The wetland, located in wards 21 and 22 of Nepalgunj Metropolitan City, covers an area of 25 bighas. It is a crucial habitat for various bird species, including the endangered Sarus crane, as well as other traditional and migratory birds. According to Ashish Chaudhary, President of Friends for Wildlife Conservation, the site regularly hosts migratory birds from Siberia, Thailand, and Malaysia.
A survey conducted by the Bird Conservation Society and Nepal Bird Experts Association revealed that the wetland supports 32 species of traditional and migratory birds and is home to three types of water lilies. Chaudhary emphasized the need to develop Kantital as a biodiversity hotspot and bird park, pointing out that motorboat operations could harm the environment and disrupt the natural feeding grounds for birds.
Chaudhary expressed concern over the use of fuel-powered motorboats, which he believes could destroy the birds’ natural habitat. He highlighted that the wetland’s natural state is vital for many bird species, including the Sarus crane, which uses Kantital as a breeding ground. “The proposal to introduce motorboats in a natural wetland area is alarming. The natural habitat for rare birds will certainly be adversely affected,” he stated.
The local municipality of Nepalgunj has granted a 10-year contract for motorboat operations to a local contractor since 2078 (Bikram Sambat), raising further worries among conservationists. The contract’s implications on the wetland’s ecosystem are being closely monitored.
Annual bird counts at the wetland show a decrease in species diversity, from 25 species two years ago to 22 species in the recent survey. Plans for a winter bird count are underway. The wetland is not only a sanctuary for various birds but also houses rare reptiles and the endangered Fishing Cat. During summer, birds from Europe, the Middle East, and Indonesia migrate here, while in winter, species from Siberia and northern China arrive.
Renowned ornithologist Ram Bahadur Shahi has praised Kantital as one of the best wetland areas in Nepal, noting its significance as a prime habitat for the Sarus crane. Previously, 33 Sarus cranes were recorded in Banke, and Kantital, along with other local wetlands, is considered a key breeding site for this species.
Dr. Binod Karn, an advocate from Nepalgunj, has warned that attempts to introduce motorboats could have detrimental effects. The local conservation community remains vigilant, urging authorities to reconsider the impact of motorboat activities on this vital wetland ecosystem.
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