The Hokersar wetland in Kashmir is facing an important decline in migratory bird populations. This Ramsar site has shrunk from 18.13 square kilometres in 1969 to 13.75 square kilometres today. Recent years have seen an alarming rainfall deficit, contributing to the reduced habitat for these species. The India Meteorological Department reports an 81 per cent rainfall deficit in the region. This has resulted in a drastic decrease in the number of migratory birds arriving at the wetland.
Current Status of Hokersar Wetland
The Hokersar wetland is vital for about 68 species of waterfowl. These include the little cormorant and the great crested grebe. The wetland serves as important food source and breeding ground for fish. In 2023, only around 500 birds were recorded, a stark contrast to the usual influx of over a lakh birds by this time of year.
Impact of Rainfall Deficit
The region has faced severe rainfall deficits. Between October 1 and 21, 2023, deficits of 36 per cent and 96 per cent were recorded. In previous years, similar patterns were observed. This lack of water affects not only the migratory birds but also the entire ecosystem of the wetland.
Environmental Degradation
Environmental factors compound the issue. Illegal sand mining and habitat degradation are critical problems. The upstream water sources, Doodhganga and Sukhnag Nallah, have seen reduced water flow. Mining activities have widened streams, disrupting the natural flow of water into the wetland.
Local Perspectives and Conservation Efforts
Local activists like Raja Muzaffar Bhat have raised concerns about encroachments and illegal sewage dumping. They stress the need for conservation efforts to protect the wetland. The National Green Tribunal has previously intervened to halt illegal mining activities. Protecting this wetland is crucial for local livelihoods and biodiversity.
Future Implications
The current situation poses a threat not just to migratory birds but also to the ecological balance of the region. Conservation measures are necessary to restore the wetland and its vital role in supporting wildlife. The community’s involvement in conservation efforts can lead to a sustainable future for the Hokersar wetland.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of rainfall deficit on the biodiversity of the Hokersar wetland in Kashmir.
- Estimate the role of illegal mining in the degradation of wetlands. How does it affect local ecosystems?
- Point out the importance of Ramsar sites in global biodiversity conservation. What measures can be taken to protect them?
- What are the ecological consequences of habitat loss for migratory birds? Discuss with suitable examples.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of rainfall deficit on the biodiversity of the Hokersar wetland in Kashmir.
The rainfall deficit, reported at 81%, has severely diminished the water levels in Hokersar wetland, crucial for supporting over 68 waterfowl species. Reduced water availability leads to habitat loss, affecting breeding and feeding grounds for migratory birds. In 2023, only around 500 birds were recorded, a stark decline from previous years where over a lakh would arrive. This ecological imbalance threatens not only avian populations but also the overall biodiversity, disrupting food chains and habitat interdependencies, ultimately risking the wetland’s ecological integrity.
2. Estimate the role of illegal mining in the degradation of wetlands. How does it affect local ecosystems?
Illegal mining contributes to wetland degradation by altering natural water flow and increasing sedimentation. In Hokersar, mining activities have widened streams, reducing the inflow of clean water from Doodhganga and Sukhnag Nallah. This disrupts the habitat for fish and birds, leading to diminished biodiversity. Moreover, the siltation from mining affects water quality, further harming aquatic life. The degradation of wetlands due to mining not only impacts wildlife but also jeopardizes local livelihoods dependent on these ecosystems, denoting the urgent need for regulatory enforcement.
3. Point out the importance of Ramsar sites in global biodiversity conservation. What measures can be taken to protect them?
Ramsar sites are crucial for conserving biodiversity, providing habitat for numerous species, and supporting ecosystem services. They play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and mitigating climate change effects. To protect these sites, measures such as stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, community engagement in conservation efforts, and sustainable land-use practices are essential. Additionally, increasing public awareness and securing funding for restoration projects can enhance the protection of Ramsar sites, ensuring they continue to support global biodiversity and local economies.
4. What are the ecological consequences of habitat loss for migratory birds? Discuss with suitable examples.
Habitat loss for migratory birds leads to decreased food availability, breeding sites, and safe resting areas, impacting their populations. For instance, in Hokersar wetland, the decline from over a lakh birds to only 500 illustrates the severe consequences of habitat degradation and water scarcity. This can disrupt migratory patterns, leading to increased competition for dwindling resources and potential declines in reproductive success. Additionally, species that rely on specific habitats may face extinction, as seen with the decline of certain waterfowl species globally due to wetland loss, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts.
