Mysore/Mysuru: Mysore Science Foundation and Teresian Girls High School, jointly conducted a bird-watching programme at Kukkarahalli Lake in the city. Environmentalist and wildlife  photographer Saptha Girish, who was the resource person, introduced the students to over 40 bird species.

Sharing his views, Girish said, Lakes play a key role in maintaining the bio-diversity. Hence, the Lakes in the heart of the city, namely Kukkarahalli and Karanji,  are considered as the lifeline of the city, helping in regulating the effect of carbon dioxide.

Recalling the history of the Lake, Girish said “Kukkarahalli Lake was built by the Maharajas of Mysore to supply drinking water to city. Now the Lake is polluted and unfit for drinking, underlining the duty of the people to protect the water body. The Lake attracts birds of different species from foreign countries too for breeding purpose.”

Lakes are not just about water, but also the vegetation surrounding the same like plants and trees that attract flies and other animals. There will be crores of micro organisms invisible to naked eyes, which all face the threat of extinction, if a Lake is destroyed. Hence, we carry the responsibility of saving the Lake for posterity, which otherwise poses a threat to the generation of pure air and water to breath and live, he warned.

Lakes are the habitat of birds and hence we should respect the water body without resorting to hazardous acts like polluting them by throwing wastes including plastic. Even the loud scream, talking loud and playing songs in big volume on cellphone should be avoided in Lake areas, he said. Mamatha, Convener of Teresian School Science Club and G.B. Santhosh Kumar, Secretary of the Foundation, were present.