The number of migratory birds visiting the international Ramsar site of Ropar Wetland has remained low this year as well, raising fresh concerns among conservationists and wildlife officials. The annual bird census conducted by the wildlife department in collaboration with WWF officials and bird club of Chandigarh was completed yesterday evening, revealing that only about 1,700 migratory birds were recorded in the wetland area.Sources in the department said the count was nearly similar to the figures recorded in the past two years, indicating that the wetland has not witnessed any significant recovery in avian footfall. In comparison, around 3,000 migratory birds were counted at the nearby Nangal Wetland in census conducted today, where bird numbers have remained steady over the years.The fluctuating and declining trend at Ropar Wetland has been evident over the past few seasons. Official data shows that in 2020, the wetland had recorded approximately 3,808 migratory birds representing over 55 species. The number fell sharply to around 3,447 in 2021 and dropped further to 1,467 in 2022. Though there was a marginal recovery in 2023 with about 1,764 birds from 43 species recorded, the figures remain nearly 50 per cent lower than those seen in 2020.The Ropar Wetland, located on the Sutlej river along Ropar headwork, is a designated Ramsar site and an important wintering ground for birds arriving from Central Asia, Siberia and other colder regions. Among the commonly sighted species are the bar-headed goose, red-crested pochard, gadwall and ruddy shelduck. However, the diversity of species has also shown a decline in recent years.Experts attribute the low bird count to multiple factors, including climate variability, late winter conditions and increasing human disturbance. “When winters arrive late or are less severe in northern regions, migratory birds tend to delay or shorten their migration routes. Some may even skip certain wetlands if conditions are not favourable,” said a wildlife enthusiast associated with the census exercise.Another major concern flagged by local environmentalists is pollution in the Sirsa river, which feeds into the Sutlej near Ropar. Industrial effluents from units located in neighbouring Himachal Pradesh are allegedly contaminating the Sirsa river, affecting water quality downstream. Polluted water entering the wetland ecosystem may be impacting aquatic vegetation and fish populations, thereby reducing the food availability for migratory birds.Environmental activists have repeatedly demanded strict monitoring of industrial discharge and regular water quality assessments. “Wetlands survive on clean inflows. If the feeder streams are polluted, the entire habitat suffers. Birds are very sensitive to changes in water quality and food chains,” said a local conservationist.Encroachments and unregulated movement of vehicles near the wetland periphery have also been cited as factors disturbing the habitat. Noise and human interference during peak migratory season can discourage birds from settling in large numbers.In contrast, Nangal Wetland has managed to maintain relatively stable bird numbers, possibly due to better water spread and comparatively lesser disturbance in certain zones. Officials believe habitat management practices and water level regulation also play a crucial role in attracting migratory species.Repeated fluctuations have raised concerns about the long-term ecological health of the Ropar Wetland. Conservationists stress the need for coordinated action between Punjab and Himachal Pradesh authorities to address trans-boundary pollution issues and strengthen habitat protection measures.With migratory birds serving as key indicators of ecological balance, the persistent low numbers at Ropar Wetland underline the urgent need for sustained conservation efforts before the once-thriving habitat loses more of its winged visitors.