How a Small Village in Keonjhar Became a Sanctuary for Bats Amid Environmental Challenges

A Unique Conservation Effort in Balabhadrapur

In the face of declining bat populations globally due to environmental threats, residents of Balabhadrapur village in the Ghatagaon block of Keonjhar district have taken proactive steps to safeguard these flying mammals. This village, renowned for its terracotta craftsmanship, has recently emerged as a sanctuary for numerous bats.

For many years, these nocturnal creatures have found refuge in the village's trees, particularly tamarind and other indigenous species. The villagers' commitment to protecting the bats has garnered praise from various sources.

During daylight hours, the bats can be seen hanging quietly from branches, and as dusk falls, they soar into the night in search of food, returning at dawn. Their arrival is often accompanied by gentle chirping sounds, which have become a familiar part of the villagers' daily routine.

The spectacle of countless bats roosting creates a distinctive natural atmosphere that attracts visitors. Locals report that the bats have never posed any threat or nuisance to them.

The community not only refrains from harming the bats but actively protects them from poachers. In the scorching summer months, villagers express concern over the risk of heatstroke for the bats, as many succumb to extreme temperatures each year. During heatwaves, officials from the Forest and Fire Services sometimes collaborate with villagers to conduct water-spraying operations to cool the bats.

In the context of the ongoing biodiversity crisis exacerbated by climate change, the villagers view their bats as a symbol of resilience. They have urged the Forest Department to implement specific conservation strategies and provide formal assistance for their initiatives.

Amarendra Sahu, a local resident, emphasized the need for more trees to support local wildlife. He suggested that planting additional saplings, creating water sources, and employing guards for protection would not only benefit the bats but also enhance tourism.

Chaturbhuja Rana, a seasoned terracotta artisan, reminisced about the presence of bats in tamarind trees since his childhood, noting their long-standing existence. However, he acknowledged the ongoing threat of heatstroke during the summer months.

Saroj Kumar Mishra, the Ghatagaon forest range officer, commended the villagers' dedication to wildlife conservation. He noted that the recent rains have helped mitigate heatstroke incidents, and water-spraying measures are arranged when necessary. The transformation of Balabhadrapur from a terracotta village to a haven for bats serves as an inspiring example of grassroots conservation.