Chandigarh Hosts Walkathon at Sukhna Wetland for World Wetland Day
Chandigarh marked World Wetland Day with a vibrant walkathon at the Sukhna Wetland on Monday, February 2, drawing enthusiastic participation from the community. The event, organized by the Forests and Wildlife Department, aimed to raise awareness about the critical ecological role of wetlands in urban environments.
Schoolchildren Lead the Charge with Placards and Enthusiasm
More than 300 schoolchildren actively took part in the walkathon, carrying placards that emphasized the ecological significance of wetlands. Their involvement underscored the importance of engaging young minds in environmental conservation efforts, fostering a sense of responsibility towards natural habitats from an early age.
Officials Flag Off Event and Emphasize Conservation
Home Secretary-cum-Secretary (Forests & Wildlife) Mandip Singh Brar officially flagged off the walkathon. In his address, he highlighted the urgent need to conserve the Sukhna Wetland, urging citizens to support the forest department's ongoing initiatives. He stressed that wetlands are vital for biodiversity, water purification, and climate regulation, making their protection a community priority.
Theme and Initiatives: Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge
The programme was aligned with the 2026 World Wetland Day theme, "Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage." This theme connects modern conservation efforts with indigenous practices, recognizing the historical wisdom in managing wetland ecosystems sustainably.
Wetland Mitra Initiative Gains Momentum
Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden Saurabh Kumar informed participants about the department's initiative to register volunteers as Wetland Mitras. He reported that over 300 residents have already enrolled on the portal to support conservation activities, demonstrating growing public engagement in safeguarding these natural resources.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the collective effort required to preserve wetlands, with Chandigarh setting an example through community-driven action and educational outreach.
