In a significant move for environmental conservation, the Bilaspur district administration has imposed a complete ban on fishing in the Kopra reservoir. This decisive action comes shortly after the water body received the prestigious Ramsar site designation, marking it as a wetland of international importance.
Administrative Order to Safeguard Ecosystem
District Collector Sanjay Agrawal issued a formal order on Friday to enforce the prohibition. The directive aims to protect the delicate and newly recognized ecosystem of the reservoir, which was declared Chhattisgarh's first Ramsar wetland site on December 12, 2025. This status places Kopra reservoir on a global list of vital wetlands under the Ramsar Convention, a recognition achieved through collaborative efforts of the State Wetland Authority, forest officials, experts, researchers, and local communities.
Widespread Awareness and Enforcement Measures
The fisheries department has actively begun spreading awareness about the new restrictions. Public announcements have been conducted in villages surrounding the reservoir to ensure the local population is informed. Official notices have been dispatched to the sarpanchs (village heads) of nine adjacent villages: Saida, Belmundi, Kopra, Sakra, Butena, Amsena, Bahutarai, Paad, and Sarseni.
Authorities have instructed these village heads to remain vigilant and report any instances of illegal fishing activity to the department. The administration has issued a clear warning that individuals found violating the ban will face strict penal action under existing environmental and fisheries laws.
Why Kopra Reservoir is Crucial
The Union government's declaration of the Kopra reservoir as a Ramsar site last month was based on a proposal from the state government. The reservoir is recognized as a unique wetland system shaped by both natural and human-made features. It is primarily fed by rainwater and small seasonal streams.
Its ecological and practical importance is multifaceted:
- Biodiversity Hotspot: It hosts rich aquatic life, including various fish, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and dense aquatic vegetation.
- Bird Sanctuary: It serves as a major habitat for numerous species of local and migratory birds, especially during winter. The State Wetland Authority specifically cited its suitability for species like the river tern, common pochard, and Egyptian vulture.
- Community Lifeline: The reservoir is a vital source of drinking water, irrigation, and agricultural support for the surrounding villages and fertile lands.
The fishing ban is a critical step in preserving this invaluable resource for future generations, balancing local livelihood practices with the imperative of long-term ecological conservation.
