The Indian government recently declared 10 more Ramsar sites, adding to the growing list of internationally significant wetlands across the country. This has brought the total number of such ecological treasure troves to 64.
Background on Ramsar Sites
A Ramsar site refers to a wetland that carries immense international importance under the Ramsar Convention. The term ‘Ramsar’ stems from the Iranian city where this intergovernmental environmental treaty was signed in 1971 under the guidance of UNESCO. It is crucial to note that the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources are the primary focus of this convention.
Recent Additions to India’s List of Ramsar Sites
India’s recent additions to its roster of Ramsar sites offer a unique blend of biodiversity and environmental significance. These new sites include the Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary, Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve, Vembannur Wetland Complex, Vellode Bird Sanctuary, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Udhayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary, Satkosia Gorge, Nanda Lake, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary and Sirpur Wetland, spread across the states of Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Goa, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh.
Key Features of New Ramsar Sites
Among the newly designated Ramsar sites, the Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu stands out as the largest reserve for breeding resident and migratory water birds in South India. Meanwhile, the Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve holds the distinction of being the first marine biosphere reserve in South and South-East Asia.
The Vembannur Wetland Complex, also in Tamil Nadu, is a human-made inland tank that forms part of an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA), making it crucial for birdlife in the region. Elsewhere, the Vellode and Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuaries in the same state are known for their rich history and biodiversity, while Udhayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary serves as a significant staging and breeding ground for several species of water birds.
Odisha’s Satkosia Gorge, located along the mighty Mahanadi River, supports a rich ecosystem representing diverse floral and faunal species. Goa’s Nanda Lake holds critical significance for its ecosystem services and biodiversity values, and Karnataka’s Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a riverine wetland rich in biodiversity. Lastly, Madhya Pradesh’s Sirpur Wetland is renowned for its aesthetic value and crucial ecological services, including serving as an essential source of water and aiding groundwater recharge downstream.
Understanding ‘Montreux Record’
The ‘Montreux Record’ forms part of the Ramsar List and is a register of international importance wetland sites where changes in ecological character have occurred or are likely to happen due to human interference, technological developments, or pollution.
Significance of Wetlands and Ramsar’s ‘Wise Use’ Concept
Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil, or the water level is near the surface. They possess high biodiversity and provide crucial ecosystem services like water filtration, storm protection, flood control, and carbon sequestration. The Ramsar Convention’s principle of ‘wise use’ advocates for the maintenance of their ecological character and sustainable utilization for humanity’s benefit.
Examples of Ramsar sites in India that have embraced the ‘wise use’ concept include Pala wetland in Mizoram and Sakhya Sagar in Madhya Pradesh, which have implemented measures to conserve and sustainably manage their resources.