Mangrove cell implements vigilant patrolling to protect flamingos at DPS Lake

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In a concerted effort to safeguard flamingos from potential hazards arising from low water levels at DPS Lake, the Mangrove Cell of the Forest Department has initiated proactive measures. Forest guards and staff have been deployed for routine morning and evening patrols at the DPS Lake site to prevent any casualties among the flamingo population.

During a recent survey at DPS Lake, Sudhir Manjare, Range Forest Officer of the Mangrove Cell, and his team observed that 4-5 flamingos had become stranded in the muddy shallows due to the diminished water levels. Swift action was taken to rescue these birds and relocate them to safer waters alongside their flocks. Manjare emphasized the critical situation, stating that the decreased water levels and expansion of mud patches had posed significant challenges for the flamingos' survival.

Moreover, Manjare expressed concerns regarding the lack of green algae, the primary food source for flamingos, leading to some birds becoming exhausted. The situation is dire, with some birds resorting to ingesting sand and mud, potentially resulting in illness.

Once a thriving habitat for thousands of flamingos, DPS Lake now faces threats due to the absence of its intertidal water inlets. Environmental activists are advocating for the restoration of these inlets under the jurisdiction of CIDCO to ensure the lake's survival as a vital ecosystem for migratory birds.

In response to another issue affecting the flamingos' well-being, the NMMC has dispatched electrical staff to adjust the angles of streetlights. These lights, particularly high-grade LED ones, have been disorienting the birds and may lead to fatalities. Dr. Rahul Khot, Deputy Director of the Bombay Natural History Society, highlighted the urgency of addressing this concern during his recent visit to DPS Lake.

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