India has nominated three cities, Indore, Bhopal, and Udaipur, for the Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) scheme under the Ramsar Convention. These nominations, a first for India, are based on proposals from state wetlands authorities in collaboration with municipal corporations.
Significance of Wetland City Accreditation Scheme
The WCA scheme, initiated in 2015, aims to recognize and honor cities demonstrating exceptional efforts in protecting and managing their urban wetlands. It provides an opportunity for cities valuing their natural or human-made wetlands to gain international recognition and positive publicity for their conservation efforts.
Cities and Their Wetlands
- Indore: Home to the Sirpur Wetland, recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA), Indore’s Sirpur Lake is being developed into a bird sanctuary. The city has received accolades for its cleanliness and urban environment.
- Bhopal: Known as the ‘city of lakes,’ Bhopal’s Bhoj Wetland, a Ramsar Site, features a world-class wetlands interpretation center, Jal Tarang. The city is actively engaged in wetland management and conservation efforts.
- Udaipur: Surrounded by major wetlands, including Pichola and Fateh Sagar, Udaipur’s cultural identity is intertwined with its wetlands, contributing to the city’s microclimate and acting as a buffer against extreme events.
Ramsar Convention Overview
The Ramsar Convention, established in 1971, aims to preserve the ecological character of wetlands of international importance. India, with 18 Ramsar sites spread across 18 states, has now submitted nominations for the Wetland City Accreditation, emphasizing the crucial role of urban wetlands.
Promoting Conservation and Positive Relationships
The Wetland City Accreditation scheme not only promotes the conservation of urban and peri-urban wetlands but also encourages cities to develop positive relationships with these ecosystems. With 43 cities globally accredited, this recognition aligns with India’s commitment to wetland conservation.
In conclusion, the nominations of Indore, Bhopal, and Udaipur for the Wetland City Accreditation highlight India’s dedication to safeguarding its urban wetlands and gaining international recognition for these efforts.
Ramsar Sites in India: A Glimpse into Wetland Conservation
India boasts 18 Ramsar sites, covering approximately 11,000 sq km, which accounts for around 10% of the country’s total wetland area across 18 states. These sites play a vital role in conserving global biological diversity and sustaining human life by maintaining the ecosystem components, processes, and benefits of wetlands.
Distribution of Ramsar Sites in India:
- Tamil Nadu: Leading with the maximum number, Tamil Nadu boasts 14 Ramsar sites, showcasing the state’s commitment to wetland conservation.
- Uttar Pradesh (UP): Following closely, UP is home to 10 Ramsar sites, contributing significantly to the country’s wetland preservation efforts.
- Other States: The remaining Ramsar sites are distributed across various states, reflecting the diverse geographical and ecological richness of India.
Largest Ramsar Site:
- Bolivia: Noteworthy for spanning the largest area, Bolivia’s Ramsar sites cover an impressive 148,000 sq km under the Convention’s protection.
International Comparisons:
- United Kingdom (UK): Despite its smaller size compared to India, the UK leads with 175 Ramsar sites, emphasizing the importance placed on wetland conservation.
- Mexico: Following closely, Mexico boasts 142 Ramsar sites, showcasing a commitment to preserving its diverse wetland ecosystems.
Ramsar Convention Overview:
- Signed in 1971: The Ramsar Convention, signed on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran, is one of the oldest inter-governmental accords. Its aim is to preserve the ecological character of wetlands of international importance.
- Criterias for Ramsar Sites: To qualify as a Ramsar site, a wetland must meet at least one of the nine criteria defined by the Ramsar Convention. These include supporting vulnerable species, threatened ecological communities, hosting a significant number of waterbirds, and serving as vital fish habitats.
Indian Commitment to Wetland Conservation:
- Spread over 18 States: India’s Ramsar wetlands are dispersed over 11,000 sq km, covering diverse regions and ecosystems within the country.
- State Initiatives: States like Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh lead in the number of Ramsar sites, showcasing state-level commitment to wetland preservation.
In conclusion, India’s 18 Ramsar sites stand as testament to the nation’s dedication to conserving wetlands and contributing to the global effort to protect these crucial ecosystems.
photo source: DD News