Uttar Pradesh’s Mainpuri district is widely famous for being home to the elegant bird, Sarus Crane, also known as Krounhcha in India. Consequently, with an estimated bird population of around 3000, the wetlands and bird sanctuary of Mainpuri will soon be developed as a Sarus Circuit which will cover an area of 676 hectares. Being developed to promote eco-tourism, it will open for the public once the COVID restrictions are lifted and nature-lovers can once again find respite amid the picturesque scenery of this place.
A step towards conservation branding
Sarus and other migratory birds flock to Mainpuri, a geological depression, for its abundance in wetlands. Hence, a circuit is being developed here which will connect the two blocks of Mainpuri, Kishni and Karhal. Further, if one enters Karhal, through which the Lucknow-Agra Expressway passes, they can see three wetlands that are located close to one another.
The Sarus Circuit will be spread across 676 hectares, which includes the approximate 526 hectares, that make up the Saman Bird Sanctuary. This circuit is expected to have over a dozen of wetlands that have been revived with the help of local villagers working under the MGNREGS. Additionally, watch-towers are also being constructed for the tourists as a part of a community project.
This Sarus Circuit will be beneficial for locals, as it will give them employment opportunities once the footfall increases. As per reports, the Chief Development Officer of Mainpuri stated, “It is an eco-tourism project and also a step towards conservation branding. It will help conserve Sarus and give eco-tourists a reason to visit Mainpuri.”
Habitat destruction caused the birds to leave
The first phase of the three-round Sarus census had counted over 2,866 Sarus in Mainpuri in September 2020, which is quite a dip from the usual numbers. This downfall was registered because Sarus had left the wetlands owing to encroachment and illegal agricultural activities. However, the population is getting restored since December 2020, from the time when the government officials began reviving the wetlands.
Knock Knock
Bringing myriad employment opportunities for the locals in its wake, developing the Sarus Circuit is beneficial in many ways. Apart from conserving the environment and boosting the economy, it will also make for a perfect getaway that can help you get rid of mental fatigue. So, once the pandemic recedes, plan a road trip from Lucknow to Mainpuri and don’t forget to carry your camera for some quick aesthetic shots!
-With inputs from IANS
