Nagaland: Wokha district declared as silence zone to protect Amur Falcons

Dimapur: The Wokha district administration in Nagaland on Monday declared the district a temporary silence zone in a renewed effort to safeguard the globally significant congregation of Amur Falcons in the district.

An order issued by additional deputy commissioner Renbomo Ezung emphasised the importance of continuing safe passage for the migratory birds, which are protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), to which India is a signatory.

Pointing out Nagaland’s status as the Falcon Capital of the World, the order said this recognition stems from the largest annual gathering of Amur Falcons at Pangti village in  Wokha district during the months of October and November every year.

"To minimise disturbances, the roosting site at Pangti has been officially declared a temporary silence zone within a 3-kilometer radius for the duration of the migration season," the order said.

It said scientific studies have shown that high-intensity sound can induce fear in wild birds, potentially causing them to abandon their habitat and disrupting vital communication linked to reproduction and survival.

The order further recalled the directive issued by the office of the chief secretary, Nagaland (vide No. CSO/1/GEN/2013 dated 12th June 2013), which warns that government grants and assistance to villages involved in the killing or harming of Amur Falcons will be subject to review and possible curtailment.

It added that all activities that may cause disturbance to the Amur Falcons, whether at the roosting site or elsewhere in the district, have been strictly prohibited with immediate effect.

The district administration urged all citizens, communities, and visitors to cooperate in preserving this unique ecological phenomenon and to uphold Nagaland’s global reputation for successful wildlife conservation.