Sukhna Wetland Gains Global Recognition

Sukhna Wetland, an ecological landmark in Chandigarh, has been officially designated a Ramsar site of international importance. This prestigious status places the wetland on the global conservation map and increases India's total count of such sites to 103. Nestled at the foothills of the Outer Himalayas, this peri-urban reservoir plays a critical role in regulating water and sediment flows from its catchment area.

The wetland serves as a vital sanctuary for diverse wildlife, providing essential habitats for both resident and migratory birds that traverse the Central Asian Flyway. Notable species include the vulnerable common pochard and the endangered Pallas's fish eagle. Furthermore, its shallow margins are crucial for the survival of the endangered black pond turtle.

While the Ramsar designation is expected to bolster conservation initiatives and foster scientific collaboration, the wetland grapples with significant challenges. Sedimentation from the Shivalik slopes and the proliferation of invasive plant species threaten its ecological balance. To address these issues, a comprehensive management plan is in place, incorporating soil and moisture conservation techniques to curb erosion and periodic removal of invasive vegetation.

Historically, Sukhna Lake was created in 1958 by damming the seasonal Sukhna Choe. Its management has since involved addressing sedimentation through measures like catchment treatment and afforestation. In a significant legal development, the Punjab and Haryana high court declared Sukhna Lake a legal entity in March 2020, with Chandigarh residents designated as its guardians. Subsequently, 493 acres around the lake were notified as a wetland in June 2020.