Asola Wetland Transformed to Provide Ideal Habitat for Rescued Turtles

In a move to support the thriving turtle population at the Asola wetland sanctuary, authorities have floated a ₹11.06 lakh tender for renovation and maintenance works. The sanctuary, established in January 2022 as a temporary camp for trafficked, injured, and rescued turtles, has seen a significant increase in its turtle population over the past two years, now housing over 250 turtles of four different Indian species.

The renovation project aims to further enhance the habitat for the turtles, which have been breeding successfully at the site. Over the past year, habitat enrichment measures, such as setting up rocks on the edges, planting native grasses, and placing logs in the pond for basking, have led to the sanctuary's most successful breeding season so far, with 20 to 25 turtles hatching this year.

The tender, which will open for bids on November 27, 2025, outlines plans to repair the pond's lining, install a new chain-link fence, clear weeds and wild growth, and lay fresh clay soil reinforced with jute or coconut fiber. The goal is to further expand the sanctuary's area and create a more diverse microhabitat to support the growing turtle population.

The Asola wetland continues to receive rescued turtles from illegal trade or trafficking, with the latest relocation being over 100 baby turtles from east Delhi's Geeta Colony in July 2025. Authorities are committed to providing a safe and thriving environment for these protected species, which are listed under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act.