Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, May 13, 2025, Kolkata : On the occasion of World Migratory Bird Day 2025, Baidyabati, a city in the Hooghly district of West Bengal, was officially declared India’s first bird-friendly and community city, meeting the criteria set by the United Nations. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Baidyabati Municipality Hall on Tuesday evening, organized by the Baidyabati Biodiversity Management Committee.
The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including poets, writers, environmentalists, and local officials, who shared reflections through poetry and discussions. Eminent personalities such as poet, author, and lawyer Ujjwal Chakraborty, Baidyabati BMC Chairman Dr. Sanjay Chandra Sen, Municipal Chief Pintu Mahato, and BMC Secretary Amit Dutt were among those in attendance.
In alignment with the announcement, Baidyabati BMC unveiled the “Baidyabati Aravan Green Plan,” an initiative aimed at fostering ecological harmony in the city. This will be implemented alongside the “Sabuj Shree” project, a green initiative inspired by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. These initiatives are part of a broader commitment to promote sustainable urban development that supports biodiversity, particularly migratory birds.
Baidyabati, situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant celebrations, including the grand Durga Puja festival. Now, the city is adding ecological stewardship to its cultural identity by taking measurable steps to safeguard bird populations and their habitats.
World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD), celebrated globally in May and October, highlights the importance of protecting migratory birds and the ecosystems they depend on. Observed on May 10 and scheduled again for October 11 in 2025, this year’s campaign emphasizes the creation of bird-friendly cities and communities. The theme underlines the growing impact of urban development on avian species and the need for responsive urban planning that prioritizes conservation.
WMBD 2025 calls on national and local governments, businesses, communities, and individuals to take concrete steps to support migratory birds. These include habitat restoration, pollution control, and building design modifications to prevent bird collisions. The campaign reinforces the message that both urban and rural communities have vital roles to play in ensuring the safe passage and survival of migratory birds.
With its new designation, Baidyabati sets a precedent for urban centers across India and the world, demonstrating that ecological responsibility and community involvement can work hand-in-hand to protect the planet’s migratory wildlife.