The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) in India has nominated three cities for the Wetland City Accreditation (WCA): Indore and Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, and Udaipur in Rajasthan. This closely aligns with the MoEF&CC’s ongoing Amrit Dharohar initiative, aimed at maintaining the unique conservation values of the Ramsar Sites, providing employment opportunities, and backing local livelihoods.
Understanding Wetland City Accreditation (WCA)
The WCA is a voluntary accreditation system introduced by the Ramsar Convention during the 2015 Conference of the Contracting Parties (COP) 12. Its objective is to acknowledge cities that have demonstrated significant effort in maintaining their urban wetlands. Furthermore, it encourages cities to foster a positive relationship with vital ecosystems like the Wetlands of International Importance.
The scheme promotes the wise use and preservation of urban and peri-urban wetlands while also ensuring socio-economic benefits for local populations. Valid for six years, the WCA aims to gain global recognition for cities that appreciate the value of their natural or human-made wetlands.
Key Highlights of Cities Nominated for WCA
Each nominated city carries its unique attributes regarding wetland conservation and sustainable development.
Indore’s Commitment to Wetland Conservation
Established by the Holkars, Indore holds the title of India’s cleanest city and was awarded India’s Smart City 2023 for its excellence in sanitation and urban environment management. The city is home to Sirpur Lake, a recognized Ramsar Site known for its water bird congregation. It is currently under development as a Bird Sanctuary. The city boasts of over 200 wetland mitras dedicated to bird conservation and raising awareness about the protection of the Sarus Crane.
Bhopal: A Pioneer in Wetland Conservation
Being another of India’s cleanest cities, Bhopal has proposed conservation zones around wetlands in its draft City Development Plan 2031. The Bhoj Wetland, a Ramsar Site, is the city’s lifeline, boasting a top-notch wetlands interpretation centre, Jal Tarang. In addition, the Bhopal Municipal Corporation maintains a dedicated Lake Conservation Cell to monitor and manage the city’s wetlands.
Udaipur: City with Majestic Wetlands
Famous for its cultural heritage, Udaipur is surrounded by five major wetlands: Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai. These wetlands contribute significantly to the city’s culture, identity, and microclimate, offering protection from extreme events.
About the Montreux Record
A crucial consideration within the framework of wetland conservation is the Montreux Record. Part of the Ramsar List, this register comprises wetland sites distinguished by their international importance but are undergoing, or likely to undergo changes due to technological developments, pollution, or other human interference. The Ramsar Convention, which was adopted in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971, and came into force in 1975, provides the groundwork for the wise use and conservation of wetlands and their resources.
These nomination and accreditation processes underscore the importance of collaboration between cities and international bodies like the Ramsar Convention to safeguard natural ecosystems. With concerted efforts, it’s possible to maintain these ecologically significant areas while also reaping socio-economic benefits.
