Dibrugarh: Following the catastrophic Baghjan blowout, the ecological health of the Maguri-Motapung beel in Dibru-Saikhowa National Park in Assam's Tinsukia district has significantly declined. Previously, this area was a thriving hotspot of biodiversity. The marsh is only 9 kilometers from Tinsukia town and has long been a winter destination for migrating bird species, attracting birdwatchers from all over the world.
But this fragile ecosystem has been upset by the effects of the oil disaster. The devastation was left in its wake by the catastrophic June 2020 oil well blowout in Baghjan, which raged for almost five months. In addition to destroying houses, the fire hurt the fragile ecosystem of the neighboring Dibru Saikhowa National Park.
Considered India's longest-running oil spill, this prolonged catastrophe has caused extensive environmental harm as well as financial loss. Nirantar Gohain, an environmental activist, said, "The Baghjan blowout has severely affected the wetland’s biodiversity."
“Despite its potential to become a world-renowned birdwatching site, the government’s lack of conservation efforts has hindered its development. The wetland, once teeming with migratory birds, now witnesses a significant decline in their numbers,” he added.
To revitalize the wetland and take advantage of its tourism potential, Gohain encouraged the government and tourism department to act quickly. “By promoting eco-tourism initiatives, such as homestay accommodations and traditional boat rides, we can generate employment opportunities for local communities and attract more visitors to the region,” he added.
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