As the winter sets in Ramrai Ranisagar lake in this northern district wears a festive look with the arrival of chirping birds and thousands of visitors to watch them play in the water.  

This year also the famed lake, largest in the area, has come alive with hundreds of migratory birds flocking on it from far away to escape freezing cold in Serbia and surrounding areas.

Also known as Rani Sagar the lake is famous for its natural beauty. The arrival of the colourful birds accentuates its charm attracting tourists from all across Bangladesh.

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During the day the birds frolic in the lake’s water and when the sun sets they take shelter in the litchi orchard around the water body.

Located four km from the Ranisankail upazila headquarters the lake has been one of the country’s sanctuaries for winter birds who love to spend some time in relatively warm weather in Bangladesh.

Unfortunately, these guest birds do not often get the hospitality they deserve.

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At this lake in particular the pollution in the water has become a hazard for the birds.

But the life of the winged guests is now at risk as some people have dumped poultry waste in the lake, polluting water, according to locals and tourists.

Tourists are often seen covering the face for protection from the foul smell emanating from the waste dumped in the lake or on its banks with the authorities not doing enough to stop the menace.  

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Selina Begum, a visitor from Saidpur upazila of Nilphamari district, said “My mind gets refreshed with the charming beauty of birds. Besides, the hundreds of litchi trees are also an added attraction.”

Talking about pollution another tourist Soleman Ali said “People are dumping poultry waste in the lake, polluting the water.”

Mahbub Alam, chairman of Hossaingaon Union, said “People from different parts of the country flocked to the lake area every year. No poaching of birds is allowed here as the local administration has taken steps in this regard.”

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Besides, the local administration plans to upgrade facilities for visitors here, he said.

Upazila assistant commissioner (land) of Ranisankail Upazila, said “The Ramrai lake or Ranisagar will be turned into a modern tourism centre and already necessary steps have been taken in this regard.”