Min announces animal rescue centre, development of Gokul Reservoir in Buxar

Buxar: Bihar environment, forest and climate change minister Sunil Kumar on Thursday said important steps are being taken towards the conservation of wild animals and wetlands in Buxar district, which includes a rescue centre in Nawanagar and development of Gokul Reservoir.
He also visited the Gokul Reservoir under Brahmapur block, Kamal Dah Park and Ramrekha Ghat of Buxar district.
The minister announced that in the financial year 2025-2026, major work will be done under Jal Jeevan Hariyali Yojana (water-life-greenery scheme), including plantation of 86,500 saplings on canal banks, riverbanks and urban areas by the Bhojpur forest division. "A rescue centre is being set up in Nawanagar, which will be dedicated to the treatment and protection of wildlife, especially the rare blackbuck. As per the conservation of wetlands, development of Gokul Reservoir has been proposed. A park based on the theme of Gayatri Mantra will be built on the dead Sone canal. A riverfront will also be developed here. Instructions have been given to prepare a detailed project report for this," the minister said.
Bhojpur divisional forest officer said that a work plan is being prepared for the construction of a rescue and interpretation centre, tourist hub, watchtower and guest house near Gokul Reservoir.
Buxar district magistrate (DM) Anshul Aggrawal said that every year the Gokul Reservoir hosts about 3,500 migratory birds of 65 species, including northern shoveler, garganey, ruddy shelduck, osprey, kestrel, sandpiper, yellow wagtail, and rare species like Egyptian vulture. Wetlands play an important role in controlling the climate, and are home to a variety of species that help in dealing with situations like water purification and flood control, he said.
Many migratory birds were still seen during a bird census in Gokul Reservoir and the Ganga region on Wednesday and Thursday under Arvind Mishra, a member of Bombay Natural History Society.
Efforts are also being made by the district administration and Buxar forest division to make the general public aware of the importance of wetlands.