Bird home to soothe ruffeld feathers

Kunjanagar Eco-Tourism Complex (Alipurduar) Dec. 22: The first ever bird rescue centre in the state and the highest watchtower in north Bengal were inaugurated yesterday at Kunjanagar Eco-Tourism Complex in Falakata by forest minister Jogesh Burman.

After the inauguration, Burman said: `For a long time we had been thinking of a centre where rescued and seized birds can be kept. Now the only bird rescue centre in the state has been inaugurated here.The watchtower was also touted as a significant achievement.` The watchtower is around 50-ft high. It is the highest in north Bengal and is also the most beautiful watchtower of the state. Visitors can get a clear view of Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary from this tower. Now that a towerhouse has started functioning and boating will soon be possible in the nearby Chartorsa river.

On the threat to tourists by militants in the region, Burman said so far no tourist had been harassed by `such elements`. He added that tourists should feel safe about visiting the region.The minister said: `From 1996, the concept of eco-tourism had been addressed with with two objectives - generating employment opportunities and creating awareness about the environment. District forest officer of Cooch Behar Kalyan Das said: `Lots of tourists come here. Last year, almost 60,000 people came and most of them appreciated this spot. Apart from the facilities inaugurated today, there is a Gharial rescue centre, a deer enclosure and a suspension bridge in the complex. Around Rs 10 lakh has been spent on developing the area. Now the members of the Kunjanagar eco-development committee have a vital role to play to maintain this complex.` Das said the birds rescued or seized by the forest department would be brought here for treatment and released after that.Chief conservator of forests (wildlife) Udayan Dasgupta said: `A few days ago, we started a leopard rescue centre at south Khayerbari. The bird rescue centre and watchtower add to the attractions here. We started work on unused land in 1996 and today, the complex has become a treasure trove for any nature lover.` While the bird rescue centre will offer a chance to see the feathered friends up close, the watchtower facilitates a breathtaking view of the Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary,` Das added.

Courtesy
The Telegraph

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