Flamingos have settled in the lakes of Punjab incuding “Rukh Khanpur”, which is a sign of a healthy ecosystem, said Chief Wildlife Ranger of Punjab Wildlife and Parks Department Mubeen Elahi.
He said that Punjab’s lakes and wetlands were vital sanctuaries for millions of resident and migratory waterbirds, primarily arriving from Siberia, Russia, and Central Asia during summer season. The province hosts over 250 water bodies, with key spots like Rukh Khanpur, Chashma Lake, Uchali, Khabbaki, Jahlar, and Kallar Kahar (Soon Valley) attracting diverse flocks, he said.
He said that migratory birds in Punjab had access to a peaceful natural environment and preferred food and effective protective measures had created a sense of security among the birds.
Mubeen Elahi said the return of waterfowl was possible due to the elimination of illegal hunting and trapping, continuous monitoring and provision of a safe environment.
In this connection, Mubeen Elahi said that on the instructions of Chief Minister Punjab, a comprehensive monitoring system was being implemented for the protection of rare wildlife and birds, the positive results of which were now coming out.
For the first time in Punjab, a patrolling system had been introduced for the protection of waterfowl and wildlife, through which strict surveillance was ensured around ponds, lakes and water bodies, he added.