Context: Chilika Lake migratory birds
The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) opposed the proposed Puri greenfield airport due to its proximity to Chilika Lake (Ramsar site), citing bird strike risk and ecological sensitivity.
Key Points
- Wildlife Institute of India (WII): Autonomous body
• Under Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
• Provides scientific advice on wildlife & environmental clearances - Chilika Lake: Odisha
• Brackish water lagoon (largest in India)
• Ramsar Site
• One of the largest wintering grounds for migratory birds
Important Species in Chilika:
• Migratory Birds: Seasonal influx (Central Asian Flyway) → key reason for bird strike risk
• Irrawaddy Dolphin: Estuarine species found in Chilika (India’s only lagoon population)
