Gujarat's Chhari Dhand Wetland Designated as Fifth Ramsar Site, Drawing Global Attention
The Chhari Dhand wetland area in Kutch district has been officially designated as Gujarat's fifth Ramsar site, a significant recognition of its ecological importance. The state government announced this development on Friday, highlighting that tourists from an impressive 52 countries regularly visit this unique wetland.
Official Recognition and Presentation Ceremony
State Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia formally presented the Ramsar site certificate to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel during a ceremony held in Gandhinagar. This designation underscores the wetland's international significance for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use.
Ecological Significance and Bird Population
Chhari Dhand is a remarkable wetland situated between desert and grassland ecosystems, creating a unique habitat that attracts thousands of migratory birds each year. The area hosts over 200,000 birds representing 187 different species, making it a crucial destination for ornithologists and birdwatchers worldwide.
Among the notable avian visitors is the globally significant Grey hypocolius, a species that adds to the wetland's ecological importance. The wetland's designation as a conservation reserve under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 in 2008 laid the foundation for its current international recognition.
International Tourism Patterns
According to government statements based on reports from tour operators and ornithologists, over 80% of visitors to Chhari Dhand come from abroad. The primary countries of origin include the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Finland, and the Netherlands, reflecting the wetland's global appeal among nature enthusiasts and conservationists.
The regular visitation from 52 different countries demonstrates the wetland's growing reputation as an international birdwatching destination and highlights Gujarat's emerging position in global ecological tourism.
