The Department of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Rajasthan, has initiated an exercise to prepare Integrated Wetland Management Plans for 15 wetlands and Zonal Master Plans for the eco-sensitive zones of two wildlife sanctuaries. A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed on Wednesday between the department and RITES Limited to develop long-term scientific frameworks for conservation and management of key wetlands and ecologically sensitive areas.
Scope of the Plans
An official stated, “The plans will include GIS-based mapping, biodiversity assessments, hydrological studies, catchment management, threat analysis, and stakeholder consultations.” The plans will also identify sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities while providing a roadmap for conservation, restoration, and wise use of wetland ecosystems.
Selected Wetlands
The selected wetlands include Pushkar Talab (Baran), Jetsagar (Bundi), Mangalwad Talab (Chittorgarh), Sabella Talab (Dungarpur), Kishore Sagar (Kota), Lakhotiya Talab (Pali), Rewasa (Sikar), Jhadol Talab and Menar Talab (Udaipur), Kesariyawad (Pratapgarh), Lakherav Talab (Sirohi), Bada Talab (Ajmer), Badbela Talab (Jhalawar), Samai Kheda (Bharatpur), and Charwas (Churu).
Expected Outcomes
“The initiative is expected to improve wetland health, strengthen water security, enhance climate resilience, and support the implementation of the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017,” the official added. Expressing serious concern over Rajasthan’s deteriorating wetlands, the Rajasthan High Court in Jodhpur directed the state government to submit comprehensive reports on identification, notification, conservation, and management. The court emphasized that these critical ecological assets are essential for groundwater recharge, flood moderation, biodiversity, water purification, and climate resilience in the water-stressed state.
Zonal Master Plans for Sanctuaries
Concurrently, Zonal Master Plans will be prepared for the eco-sensitive zones around Tal Chhapar and Kesarbagh wildlife sanctuaries, utilizing field surveys, GIS mapping, and ecological and socio-economic data for detailed land-use planning. “The plans will identify forests, water bodies, catchments, agricultural lands, cultural heritage sites, and areas with eco-tourism potential. They will also incorporate measures for habitat protection, groundwater and watershed management, restoration of degraded areas, regulation of tourism activities, and preservation of natural and cultural heritage,” the proposal stated.
