HAFLONG, Nov 12 � The people of Umrangsu have expressed serious concern over the wanton killing of Amur falcons in the catchment areas of Umrong river near New Tungbum village under the Umrangsu police station. These migratory birds from Siberia and northern China pass over the region during their journey for wintering in southern Africa.
In the first week of November this year a large flock of this species of birds was spotted in the area. Usually, these birds spend the night on trees, only to fly away in the early morning towards their wintering destination. The local people sometimes kill them for meat. Earlier, the number of these birds was less, but this year the number increased tremendously, bringing elation on the faces of a section of the local people who saw it as an opportunity to feast on these birds.
Alarmed over the situation, and with an aim to bringing awareness among the people for the protection and preservation of wildlife, special emphasis being on these migratory birds, the members of Blue Hills Society and Sengya Tularam Club organised a meeting at the premises of the latter on Sunday. The meeting with Jaibesh Warisa, president, Sengya Tularam Club in the chair was also attended by the representatives of Samindar Karbi Amei, Karbi Students� Association, Dimasa Students� Union, Jadikhe Naisho Hosom, besides the senior citizens of Umrangsu.
Speaking on the occasion, Joysing Enghi of SKA said that since time immemorial people have been hunting these birds, but now the time has come that they gave a thought to the preservation and protection of these birds, �who are our guests�. Tunu Langthasa, Forest Range Officer, Umrangsu sought the cooperation of local people for the protection of these birds since the forest officials alone cannot do the job with their limited strength.
TK Dey, principal of JB Hagjer Junior College, Umrangsu said they are always ready to extend all possible help for such noble causes. Other speakers also opined in the same way, while appreciating the Blue Hills Society and Sengya Tularam Club members for their endeavour in preserving the environment and protecting the wildlife.
The meeting also resolved to ban the use of hunting instruments like catapult, air-gun, etc., hold awareness campaigns, and help the forest officials in protecting not only these birds but also wildlife in general.