Chhari-Dhandh Bird Sanctuary in Kutch Earns Prestigious Ramsar Site Status
In a landmark development for wetland conservation, the Chhari-Dhandh Bird Sanctuary, located on the edge of the Banni grasslands in Kutch, was officially designated as a Ramsar Site on Saturday. This recognition grants it the esteemed status of a wetland of international importance, marking a significant achievement for Gujarat's environmental efforts.
Gujarat's Fifth Ramsar Site: A Conservation Milestone
Chhari-Dhandh becomes Kutch's first Ramsar Site and Gujarat's fifth, joining the ranks of other protected wetlands in the state. This designation places it alongside Gujarat's existing Ramsar Sites, which include Nalsarovar, Thol, Khijadiya, and Wadhwana Bird Sanctuaries. The announcement underscores the state's commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity and natural habitats.
At the national level, this inclusion strengthens India's expanding Ramsar network, which has seen rapid growth in recent years. The move highlights the country's dedication to international conservation standards and the protection of vital ecosystems.
Unique Ecosystem and Rich Biodiversity
The Chhari-Dhandh Bird Sanctuary boasts a unique ecosystem that lies between a desert landscape and tropical grassland. Spread over an impressive 227 square kilometers, it was declared Gujarat's first conservation reserve back in 2008. Its saline and seasonal water bodies support a rich diversity of flora and fauna, making it one of the most important bird habitats in western India.
More than 250 species of birds have been recorded here, with winter bringing an estimated 25,000 to 40,000 migratory birds from Siberia, Central Asia, and Europe. The wetland provides a critical habitat for several endangered and threatened bird species, such as the Dalmatian pelican, oriental darter, and black-necked stork.
Beyond Birds: A Multi-Species Haven
Beyond its avifauna, the area supports a variety of other species, including chinkara, desert fox, caracal, desert cat, and wolf. This diversity underlines its importance as a multi-species ecosystem, contributing to the overall ecological balance of the region.
Government Support and Conservation Measures
Gujarat Forest Minister Arjun Modhwadia emphasized that the Ramsar status will enable the implementation of special conservation measures for rare and endangered species. This designation is expected to bring enhanced protection and management strategies to safeguard the sanctuary's unique environment.
Notably, more than 21% of India's wetland area is located in Gujarat, the highest proportion among all states. The state's wetlands span approximately 3.5 million hectares, covering about 17.8% of Gujarat's geographic area, highlighting its pivotal role in national wetland conservation efforts.
