The famous wetlands of Kashmir this year are again witnessing a huge transformation as more than a million migratory birds from the different parts of the world have arrived during the onset of winter season.
The arrival of migratory birds in these wetlands is an insightful show of a nature and a dominant symbol of hope.
While the almost whole world dealing with the environmental issues and challenges, the arrival of the winged guests in Kashmir is a sign of difference in comparison to the other countries and continents.
The still waters in the wetlands of Kashmir are teemed with life and the air in and around these wetlands are filled with a symphony of calls and the chirps of the winged guests.
Having flown thousands of daunting miles along the Central Asian Flyway, these birds encounter not only safety in Kashmir but also abundance.
Their annual migration serves as an important ecological indicator. The health and diversity of these migratory birds is a direct possibility of the health of our own environment.
That they continue to choose Kashmir speaks to the commitment of conservationists, resident communities, and the Department of Wildlife Protection.
Changes to curb pollution, prevent illegal hunting, and conserve fragile wetland ecosystems, are clearly working.
Every bird that arrives on the water is a testimony to the protective work being done.
However, this convergence of airborne life has significance beyond ecology for everybody. It is more important for the soul and for the local economy.
For Kashmiris, the arrival of the birds heralds a ritual in their cultural calendar, a delightful disruption to the stillness of winter; something that has inspired innumerable poets, artists, and photographers.
For tourists, it is a compelling and original reason to leave the comfort of homes in the previously wintery cold, while also further developing this promising and alternative niche of eco-tourism and livelihood for local guides and boatmen.
