In the heart of the picturesque district of Budgam, nestled within the serene landscapes of Kashmir, a heart-wrenching ecological crisis is silently taking a toll on one of the region's most iconic inhabitants - the majestic Kashmiri eagle. For the past two years, author borne witness to a shocking tragedy: the electrocution of 133 Kashmiri eagles near the Municipality dumping site located at Kerwas of Nagam village. This is an issue that demands our immediate attention and action.
The Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis) is a magnificent bird of prey native to a vast range spanning Eurasia and parts of Africa. Characterized by its striking appearance, with brown plumage, a pale head, and powerful talons, these eagles are among the largest raptors in their range.

Biology

Physical Characteristics: Adult Steppe Eagles typically have a wingspan of around 1.6 to 1.9 meters, making them formidable predators in the skies. Their powerful beaks and sharp talons enable them to capture a wide variety of prey.

Habitat

Steppe Eagles are highly adaptable and can be found in diverse habitats, including grasslands, semi-deserts, wetlands, and agricultural areas. During migration, they cover long distances and cross multiple countries.

Diet

These raptors are carnivorous and feed on a varied diet, including small mammals, birds, reptiles, and carrion. They play a vital role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining ecosystem health.
Ecological Status
The Steppe Eagle is classified as "Vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Several factors contribute to their vulnerable status:

Habitat Loss

The conversion of natural habitats into agriculture and urban areas has reduced suitable nesting and foraging sites.
Human Disturbance: Disturbance during breeding and feeding activities, including human encroachment and disturbance of nest sites, can negatively impact their populations.

Electrocution

The electrocution of Steppe Eagles due to contact with power lines, as witnessed near the solid waste dumping site in Choodura, is a significant threat to their survival.

The Silent Tragedy Unfolds

The Kashmiri eagle, often referred to as the Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis), shares many biological characteristics with its global counterparts. These magnificent birds, with their striking appearance and powerful predatory abilities, are a vital part of Kashmir's ecosystem. However, in recent years, these awe-inspiring birds have faced a dire and unintended threat - electrocution.

Electrocution: An Unseen Peril

The dumping site at Kerwas of Nagam village, managed by the Municipality, is meant to handle waste efficiently. Yet, it has become an unintentional death trap for the Kashmiri eagles. The installation of electrical wires and poles near the site, intended to deter birds from scavenging, has, in reality, led to a devastating massacre of these vital apex predators.
These noble birds, while foraging amidst the waste, often come into contact with live wires, leading to electrocution. The consequences are grim and heart-rending, as the once-thriving eagle population now dwindles at an alarming rate.

Ecological Consequences

The ecological ramifications of this tragedy extend far beyond the loss of these magnificent eagles. The Kashmiri eagle, or Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis), plays a pivotal role in maintaining the ecological balance of this fragile ecosystem. They help control the populations of smaller prey species, ensuring that the natural food chain remains intact. With their numbers decreasing and a shocking 133 eagles lost in just two years, we face the prospect of imbalances in the ecosystem, potentially leading to conflicts between humans and overpopulated species.

A Call to Action

To address this pressing ecological issue, we must take immediate and resolute steps:
1. Halt Electrocution: The Municipality must suspend the use of live wires and poles near the dumping site, preventing further harm to the Kashmiri eagles.
2. Raising Awareness: Local communities should be educated about the vital role these eagles play in maintaining ecological balance.
3. Preserving Habitats: Conservation efforts must focus on safeguarding natural habitats to allow Kashmiri eagles to thrive without venturing near dangerous sites.
4. Collaboration and Research: Conservationists, wildlife experts, and local authorities must collaborate to conduct research and implement measures to protect these eagles.
In conclusion, the heart-wrenching reality of the electrocution of Kashmiri eagles near the Municipality dumping site at Kerwas of Nagam village in Budgam demands immediate attention. It's our shared responsibility to ensure the survival of these majestic birds and safeguard the ecological integrity of the Kashmir Valley. The time to act is now before the skies over this beautiful region fall silent without the soaring presence of the Kashmiri eagle.

Email :------------------------ showkatmohammad111@gmail.com