Dhanauri Wetland Notification and Conservation Efforts

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has recently instructed the Uttar Pradesh government to expedite the process of notifying the Dhanauri water body as a wetland. This direction follows a petition by bird-watcher Anand Arya, who advocates for its recognition as a Ramsar site and bird sanctuary. The Dhanauri water body spans 112.89 hectares and is situated near the Jewar airport, raising concerns regarding the impact of airport operations on local wildlife.

Background of Dhanauri Water Body

Dhanauri is located in Gautam Buddha Nagar. It is primarily a privately owned area spread across the villages of Dhanauri Kalan, Thasrana, and Amipur Bangar. The ecological significance of this water body is brought into light by its potential to support diverse bird species, including migratory birds.

Legal Proceedings and NGT’s Role

The NGT is very important in environmental governance in India. It reviews petitions related to ecological issues and has the authority to direct state governments on environmental matters. In this case, it is overseeing the petition regarding Dhanauri’s wetland status and ensuring compliance with conservation commitments associated with the Jewar airport project.

Wetland and Ramsar Site Status

Wetlands are crucial for biodiversity and ecosystem services. They provide habitats for various species and help in flood control and water purification. The Ramsar Convention, established in 1971, allows countries to designate wetlands of international importance. The Centre can declare a Ramsar site based on state recommendations, which emphasises the need for ecological assessments.

Consultation Process with Landowners

The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) has indicated that consultations with landowners are necessary before any formal notification can occur. This process is essential to ensure that the rights and concerns of local stakeholders are addressed. The DFO requested three months to complete these consultations, prompting questions from the NGT regarding the timeline.

Environmental Considerations

The NGT has telld the importance of protecting the Dhanauri water body from disturbances caused by the nearby airport operations. It has brought into light that simply notifying the wetland is not sufficient. Active measures must be taken to safeguard the habitat of birds and other fauna, as stipulated in the environmental clearance for the airport.

Conservation Plans and Future Steps

The conservation plan linked to the Jewar airport’s environmental clearance recommends that Dhanauri be declared a bird sanctuary or conservation reserve. Following the Union Environment Ministry’s request in 2019, the proposal for Ramsar site designation is pending. The NGT’s directives aim to accelerate this process while ensuring ecological integrity.

Importance of Public Awareness

Public engagement and awareness are crucial for the protection of wetlands. Communities must understand the ecological value of such areas and advocate for their conservation. The involvement of local stakeholders in the decision-making process is vital for sustainable management.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the significance of wetlands in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services.
2. Critically discuss the role of the National Green Tribunal in environmental governance in India.
3. Point out the implications of airport operations on nearby ecological habitats.
4. Analyse the process and criteria for designating Ramsar sites under the Ramsar Convention.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the significance of wetlands in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services.

1. Wetlands serve as critical habitats for a variety of flora and fauna, including migratory birds.
2. They play a vital role in water purification, acting as natural filters for pollutants.
3. Wetlands help in flood control by absorbing excess water during heavy rains.
4. They support diverse ecosystems, contributing to overall ecological balance and resilience.
5. Wetlands provide resources for local communities, including fish and plant materials, enhancing livelihoods.

2. Critically discuss the role of the National Green Tribunal in environmental governance in India.

1. The NGT addresses environmental disputes and ensures compliance with environmental laws and regulations.
2. It has the authority to impose penalties and direct state governments on ecological matters.
3. NGT plays important role in expediting environmental justice, reducing delays in the judicial process.
4. It promotes public participation in environmental governance, allowing citizens to file petitions.
5. NGT’s decisions often set precedents for environmental policy and conservation efforts in India.

3. Point out the implications of airport operations on nearby ecological habitats.

1. Airport operations can lead to habitat destruction and fragmentation, affecting local wildlife populations.
2. Increased noise pollution can disturb migratory patterns and breeding behaviors of birds.
3. Airports may contribute to pollution, impacting water quality in nearby wetlands and ecosystems.
4. Human activity associated with airports can lead to increased human-wildlife conflicts.
5. Mitigation measures are essential to balance development with ecological conservation in surrounding areas.

4. Analyse the process and criteria for designating Ramsar sites under the Ramsar Convention.

1. Ramsar sites are designated based on their ecological significance and biodiversity value.
2. Countries propose sites to the Ramsar Secretariat, which evaluates them against established criteria.
3. Criteria include the presence of rare or threatened species and the importance of the site for waterbird populations.
4. Designated sites receive international recognition and protection, promoting conservation efforts.
5. Regular monitoring and management plans are required to maintain the ecological integrity of Ramsar sites.