Early Times Report
CHANDIGARH, Feb 11: As part of the World Wetlands Day celebrations, the Department of Zoology at Mehr Chand Mahajan DAV College for Women, in collaboration with Eco Club- Parivesh, organised an educational trek to Sukhna Lake Reserve Forest, followed by a visit to the Chandigarh Bird Park. The celebration was held with the objective of fostering awareness about the significance of wetlands and wildlife conservation.
As part of the programme, 28 students of B.Sc. III (Medical) formed a human chain at the regulatory end of Sukhna Lake and displayed awareness slogans, highlighting the urgent need for wetland protection and biodiversity conservation. The trek through the serene environs of Sukhna Lake Reserve Forest offered students an immersive learning experience. Using binoculars, they closely observed the wetland ecosystem and engaged in discussions on its ecological significance. Several bird species were sighted near the water bodies, including the Purple Gallinule, Eurasian Moorhen, Little Egret, Indian Peafowl, Red-wattled Lapwing, and Jungle Babbler, reinforcing the vital role of wetlands as habitats for both resident and migratory avifauna.
Faculty members sensitised students to the critical functions of wetlands in sustaining biodiversity, regulating environmental processes, and maintaining ecological balance. The educational excursion concluded with a visit to Chandigarh Bird Park, established by the Department of Forest and Wildlife, UT Administration, across 6.5 acres at Nagar Van behind Sukhna Lake. The park features two small aviaries and two walk-through aviaries, designed amidst lush vegetation with varied canopies to provide an ideal habitat, food, and shelter for birds to thrive and breed. Students observed a diverse array of native and exotic species, including macaws, cockatoos, African grey parrots, finches, melanistic pheasants, swans, parakeets, lovebirds, and ducks. Interactive discussions during the visit enriched students' understanding of avian behaviour, habitat requirements, and conservation strategies.
Officiating Principal Ms. Neena Sharma lauded the initiative, stating that such experiential learning activities play a pivotal role in nurturing environmental consciousness and inspiring students to become responsible custodians of nature. |
