The Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change has made a proposal to the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department. The request involves the declaration of Dhanauri in Greater Noida as a globally significant wetland under the provisions of the Ramsar Convention. This recognition would protect Dhanauri from future alterations in land use.
Dhanauri’s Potential as a Ramsar Site
Dhanauri is an ecological hotspot, home to a large Sarus crane population, a species classified as vulnerable. It meets two of the nine criteria required for Ramsar site designation: One, it hosts over 1% of the Sarus crane’s biogeographic population; and two, it supports a congregation of more than 20,000 waterfowl and other species. This ecological abundance makes Dhanauri an excellent contender for the Ramsar tag, ensuring its conservation for the future.
Facts about Dhanauri Wetlands
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh |
| Species of Interest | Sarus Crane |
| Additional Species Population | Supports over 20,000 waterfowl and other species |
| Ramsar Site Criteria Met | Two out of nine |
Fulfilling the Criteria for Ramsar Site Designation
The Ramsar convention defines several categories for which a site might be considered unique and of global importance. A site could be a representative, rare, or unique example of a natural or near-natural wetland. It might support at-risk species such as those classified as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered. It could also be vital for maintaining the biological diversity of a specific biogeographic area by supporting unique plant and animal populations.
Additionally, some sites may serve as crucial habitats during pivotal life stages for various species or provide haven during harsh conditions. Moreover, a locus regularly inhabited by 20,000 or more waterbirds or containing 1% or more of a single waterbird species’ population would qualify under conventions’ rules. Areas significant for indigenous fish subspecies, series, families, and life-history stages – including species interactions and migration paths – are also considered essential. Finally, spots crucial for wetland-dependent non-avian animal species are valued and recognized under the Ramsar Convention.
Dhanauri fills several of these criteria, making it a strong candidate deserving recognition and protection. With ongoing discussions to formalize its Ramsar status, Dhanauri’s ecological future stands at a promising juncture.