Chhari-Dhand Bird Sanctuary in Kutch Becomes Gujarat's 5th Ramsar Site
The Chhari-Dhand Conservation Reserve, situated at the edge of the arid Banni grasslands and the marshy salt flats of the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat's Kutch district, has been officially declared a Ramsar Site. This prestigious designation, announced on Saturday, recognizes the wetland as being of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, making it the fifth such site in Gujarat after Nal Sarovar, Thol, Khijdia, and Vadhwana.
A Unique Habitat and Its Significance
Spanning approximately 227 square kilometres (22,700 hectares), Chhari-Dhand is a unique habitat located between desert and grassland. The name itself derives from 'Chhari', meaning saline, and 'Dhandh', meaning a shallow lake. Originally declared Gujarat's first Conservation Reserve in 2008, this wetland is now gaining global recognition just days ahead of World Wetlands Day on February 2.
More than 250 species of birds have been recorded here, with winter populations ranging between 25,000 and 40,000. Notable species include the endangered Dalmatian Pelican, Oriental Darter, Black-necked Stork, and Indian Skimmer, along with flamingos, Common cranes, Painted storks, Raptors, and Spoonbills. Beyond birds, the wetland attracts wildlife such as chinkara, wolves, caracal, desert cats, and desert foxes.
Government and Environmental Impact
Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia hailed the move as a "golden chapter" for eco-tourism in Gujarat. He emphasized that the international recognition will strengthen safe havens for migratory and local birds, boost conservation efforts globally, and promote eco-tourism, creating new employment and income opportunities for local communities. Additionally, it is expected to increase environmental awareness, educational activities, and community participation.
A government release credited the achievement to the continuous efforts of Gujarat Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Dr. Jaipal Singh and his team, including the Gandhinagar Wildlife Wing, Chief Conservator of Forests (Kutch, Bhuj), and Deputy Conservator of Forests, Kutch (West) Forest Department, Bhuj.
Resilience and Broader Wetland Context
Dr. Jaipal Singh highlighted that Chhari-Dhand is resilient to weather conditions and not solely dependent on rains. Its vast area ensures significant portions remain submerged, providing habitat for migratory birds, while minimal human population and protection from poaching enhance its safety.
Nationally, Gujarat hosts eight of India's 115 national wetlands. Dr. AP Singh, PCCF & HoFF, Gujarat, noted that Gujarat accounts for nearly 21.9% of the country's total wetland area, covering approximately 3.5 million hectares across 17,613 wetlands. He mentioned proposals for additional Ramsar sites, such as Gosabara Mokrasagar Wetland in Porbandar and Flamingo City Wetland in Kutch.
Despite their importance, wetlands face threats like encroachment, pollution, agricultural runoff, invasive species, and climate change. The Gujarat State Wetland Authority, constituted under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, plays a key role in their identification, notification, and delineation.
This recognition underscores Gujarat's commitment to environmental conservation and positions Chhari-Dhand as a vital sanctuary for biodiversity and eco-tourism in the region.
