Three Indian Cities Nominated for Wetland City Tag

January 5, 2024

India has submitted nominations for three cities – Indore, Bhopal and Udaipur – to receive the tag of ‘International Wetland City’ under the Ramsar Convention. This recognition highlights efforts by cities to conserve urban and peri-urban wetlands.

Significance of Urban Wetlands

Over 4 billion people now live in cities, and urban populations grow 2.4% yearly. Projections show nearly 70% of people will reside in cities by 2050, increasing demand for housing and infrastructure. Conserving urban wetlands is critical.

As consumption, agriculture and energy production compete for water, supplies lag behind sustainable sources. Wetlands play a vital role by naturally filtering wastewater and regulating water availability
Expanding city boundaries threaten wetlands which often get drained, filled and built over
Wetlands reduce flooding, provide income through fishing/farming, filter water supplies, absorb waste
They create urban green spaces for wildlife and people
They offer economic benefits to communities via biomass and aquaculture

Indian Cities and Their Wetlands

The wetlands near the three nominated Indian cities sustain local populations. Indore has the Sirpur Ramsar wetland site, Bhopal has the Bhoj Ramsar wetland, and Udaipur has numerous scenic lakes that attract tourists.

Conserving these vital urban wetlands through appropriate policies and citizen participation makes the cities eligible for the Ramsar tag. It demonstrates their commitment to wise use of wetlands for current needs and future sustainable development.

The wetland city accreditation also provides international recognition for conservation efforts by the municipal authorities. India submitted these first nominations after states collaborated with city municipalities on demonstrating strong positive ties with wetlands.

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