Reported by Manoj Kumar Ojha
Doomdooma: A black kite was found dead along NH-37 at Dhola Dhadhum Pathar near Saikhowa Ghat in upper Assam’s Tinsukia district on Thursday afternoon, once again drawing attention to the growing threat of roadkill in one of the region’s ecologically sensitive landscapes.
The black kite, or fire kite (scientific name: Milvus migrans), is a medium-sized bird of prey belonging to the family Accipitridae, which includes eagles, hawks, and other diurnal raptors. Its regional populations have shown noticeable declines and fluctuations in recent years.
Experts attribute the decline to habitat destruction, rapid urbanisation, electrocution from power lines, poisoning, road accidents, wetland degradation, and the shrinking of safe nesting and feeding habitats.
Increasing infrastructure expansion and human disturbance in ecologically sensitive zones are also emerging as significant threats to the species across parts of Asia, including Assam.
The carcass was found within the Saikhowa Range under the Doomdooma Forest Division, nearly three kilometres from the range office and about 16 kilometres from the divisional headquarters.
The area, particularly the wetlands and grasslands surrounding Dhadhum Pathar, is widely known for its rich birdlife and seasonal congregation of migratory species.
“This stretch has long served as a natural refuge for numerous bird species, but increasing vehicular movement and speeding are becoming serious threats,” said a local conservationist.
The wetland belt extending from Dangari to Dhola supports a wide range of flora and fauna and remains an important habitat for birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Wildlife observers and bird enthusiasts from different parts of the country frequently visit the area for birdwatching because of its remarkable avian diversity.
Concern among conservationists has intensified since the inauguration of the Bhupen Hazarika Setu in 2017, which connects Dhola with Sadiya across the Lohit River.
The bridge significantly improved connectivity in eastern Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, but the resulting rise in traffic volume and roadside development has reportedly increased pressure on local ecosystems.
“Infrastructure growth is important, but ecological safeguards must also be prioritised in biodiversity-rich zones,” noted wildlife activist Devajit Moran.
According to local residents and activists, incidents of roadkill involving snakes, mongooses, monkeys, and birds have become increasingly common along the highway corridor.
In a recent case, an Indian roller was also found dead on the bridge, further highlighting the vulnerability of wildlife in the absence of adequate protective measures.
Environmental groups have urged authorities to introduce mitigation measures such as speed restrictions in sensitive stretches, installation of cautionary signage, regular patrolling, and wildlife-friendly infrastructure, including underpasses and protective barriers.
Local conservation organisations are also preparing to submit a memorandum to the forest department seeking immediate intervention to minimise further wildlife casualties and preserve the fragile biodiversity of the Saikhowa landscape.