Fri Feb 06 23:26:01 UTC 2026: ### Gujarat’s Chhari-Dhandh Declared a Ramsar Site, Boosting India’s Wetland Conservation

The Story:

The Chhari-Dhandh Wetland Conservation Reserve in Gujarat’s Kachchh district has been officially designated as a Ramsar Site, marking a significant achievement in India’s ongoing efforts to protect its wetlands. The announcement, made on February 6, 2026, highlights the ecological importance of the region, particularly for migratory birds. Gujarat Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia presented the Ramsar Site certificate to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar, recognizing the collaborative effort of the Forest Department. This designation is expected to elevate the profile of Chhari-Dhandh on the global ecological stage.

Key Points:

  • Chhari-Dhandh was designated as a Ramsar Site on January 31, 2026.
  • It is Gujarat’s fifth Ramsar Site and the first in the Kachchh region.
  • Designated as Gujarat’s first Conservation Reserve in August 2008.
  • The reserve is located at the intersection of desert, grassland, and wetland ecosystems.
  • The wetland attracts thousands of migratory birds, including the Grey Hypocolius.
  • Around 283 bird species have been documented, including 11 globally threatened and 9 Near Threatened species.
  • The site spans approximately 22,700 hectares and encompasses 12 villages.
  • Over 80% of visitors are foreign tourists, mainly from Nordic countries, the US, and the UK.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Ramsar designation underscores the ecological significance of Chhari-Dhandh as a vital habitat for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway.
  • Gujarat’s commitment to wetland conservation, initiated in 2008, is now recognized internationally.
  • The designation will likely boost ecotourism in the Kachchh region, benefiting local communities and economies.
  • The convergence of multiple ecosystems within Chhari-Dhandh highlights the importance of preserving biodiversity hotspots.
  • Continued conservation measures are crucial to maintain the ecological balance and support the diverse avian populations that depend on the wetland.

Impact Analysis:

The Ramsar designation of Chhari-Dhandh has several long-term implications:

  • Enhanced Conservation Efforts: The Ramsar status will likely attract increased funding and resources for habitat management, ecological monitoring, and community engagement.
  • Ecotourism Boost: The recognition will drive further growth in ecotourism, providing economic opportunities for local communities while promoting environmental awareness.
  • Global Recognition: Chhari-Dhandh’s inclusion on the Ramsar list enhances India’s standing in international conservation efforts and promotes collaboration on transboundary migratory bird conservation.
  • Climate Resilience: Protecting wetlands like Chhari-Dhandh is essential for climate change adaptation, as these ecosystems provide valuable services such as flood control, water purification, and carbon sequestration.
  • Long-term Monitoring: The designation necessitates sustained monitoring of the wetland’s ecological health, ensuring that conservation measures remain effective and adaptive to changing environmental conditions.

    Read More