Dhanauri Wetland Notification

January 23, 2025

The Dhanauri wetland, located near Jewar airport in Uttar Pradesh, has become a focal point for environmental conservation. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the state government to expedite the notification process for declaring this area as a wetland. The Dhanauri water body, covering 112.89 hectares, is vital for local biodiversity, especially for migratory birds.

Current Status of Dhanauri Wetland

The NGT has mandated the Uttar Pradesh government to clarify the status of Dhanauri’s wetland notification within four weeks. The state’s forest department has been asked to explain the need for additional time, as the decision to declare the site as a wetland has already been made. The wetland is primarily situated on privately owned land, necessitating consultations with local landowners.

Importance of Dhanauri for Biodiversity

Dhanauri is important habitat for various bird species, including over 150 Sarus cranes, which are the state bird of Uttar Pradesh. The wetland supports more than 217 bird species and serves as nesting and feeding ground, particularly during the migratory season from November to March when it attracts over 50,000 waterfowl.

Ramsar Site Criteria

The Dhanauri wetland meets two key Ramsar site criteria:

It hosts over 1% of the biogeographic Sarus crane population
It serves as a congregation site for more than 20,000 waterfowl

These criteria are essential for the designation of wetlands under the Ramsar Convention, which aims to conserve globally wetlands.

Ramsar Convention

Established in 1971, the Ramsar Convention is an international treaty focused on the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
It recognises Ramsar sites as areas of global importance.
The convention encourages countries to designate wetlands that meet specific ecological criteria for protection and management.

Legal Framework and Conservation Plans

The conservation plan for the Jewar airport project includes provisions for protecting local wildlife, particularly birds. The proposal to declare Dhanauri as a Ramsar site has been supported by the Union Environment Ministry, denoting its ecological significance and the need for conservation measures.

Challenges Ahead

While the notification process for Dhanauri as a wetland is underway, challenges remain. The impact of airport operations on the local bird population is a concern. Ensuring that the wetland’s ecological integrity is maintained amidst development pressures is critical for the survival of its unique biodiversity.

Community Involvement

Local communities play a vital role in the conservation of Dhanauri. Engaging landowners and residents in the consultation process is essential for the successful implementation of conservation measures. Their support is crucial for the long-term sustainability of the wetland.

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