Only around 100 flamingos have arrived so far at the Ujani Dam watershed near Kumbhargaon in Indapur taluka, Pune district, after the onset of winter was delayed this year, according to a report by Lokmat – Pune. The reduced and late arrival has raised concern among birdwatchers and local tourism operators who depend on the seasonal visitors.
Flamingos usually begin arriving in large numbers in the Kumbhargaon area from October. However, the number recorded so far remains far below the level expected by visitors and bird enthusiasts. Temperatures have fallen and the cold has intensified over the past three to four days, but the flamingo population has not increased significantly, the report said.
Kumbhargaon, located around the Ujani reservoir’s extensive watershed, is known as a prominent bird-watching destination in Maharashtra. Bird lovers, photographers and tourists travel from Maharashtra and neighbouring states to see the migratory birds, which are recognised for their pink plumage, long bills and tall necks. Despite the lower numbers this year, visitor interest at the site remains strong.
The watershed supports around 70 to 80 types of birds, according to the report. In addition to flamingos, visitors can see grey herons, painted storks, black ibises and tall-necked storks. Some bird species also use the area during their breeding season, making the reservoir landscape an important destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
The falling water storage level in Ujani Dam has added uncertainty over the availability of food and suitable habitat for migratory birds. Bird lovers are also uncertain about how long the flamingos that have arrived will remain in the area. The report did not provide a current water-storage figure or an official assessment of the habitat conditions.
Visitors continue to observe the birds in the quiet night environment, sometimes using torchlight, and photograph their reflections on the water. A boat facility at Kumbhargaon allows tourists to view the birds from closer range. The activity has helped sustain local tourism even though the flamingo count remains low.
Kalyan Dhumal, who operates the bird tourism centre at Kumbhargaon, told Lokmat that approximately 100 flamingos had arrived so far. Some of the birds are also staying in the Kondhar Chincholi and Takli areas of Solapur district, he said. Tourists from Mumbai, Pune, Thane, Kolhapur, Satara and Sangli have been visiting Kumbhargaon.
The local tourism offering includes birdwatching, boating, accommodation and fresh fish from the Ujani reservoir. Tourism operators and bird enthusiasts are now waiting to see whether the flamingo population increases as winter conditions strengthen. The report did not specify a formal monitoring schedule or any announced intervention by the authorities.
