Goa State Wetland Authority Advances Notification for 10 New Wetlands
The Goa State Wetland Authority is actively progressing towards issuing final notifications for ten additional water bodies to be designated as wetlands. This initiative expands upon the existing 25 wetlands currently notified in the state, marking a significant step in environmental conservation efforts.
Details of the Proposed New Wetlands
The ten water bodies under consideration include six located in Benaulim: Dhakte lake, Vodle lake, Ita lake, Adsule lake, Manali lake, and Kamala lake. The remaining four are Orlim lake in Orlim, Dhulpe lake in Shiroda, Ambulor lake in Verna, and Lagoa de Cima in Chandor.
Officials have confirmed that the process for these lakes involves validation of areas and physical delineation using high-resolution maps, which is currently being conducted by a specialized agency. Following this, a technical committee will review and approve the findings before the notification is issued for public objections and suggestions. Only after completing these steps will the water bodies officially qualify for wetland status.
Key Highlights of the New Wetlands
Among the proposed wetlands, Lagoa de Cima in Chandor stands out as the largest, covering an area of 150,000 square meters of the lake itself, with an additional buffer zone of 63,000 square meters. Orlim lake is the second largest of the ten, with a lake area of 64,000 square meters and a buffer zone spanning 180,000 square meters.
Current Status of Existing Wetlands
Regarding the water bodies that have already acquired wetland status, officials noted that lake management committees have been formed only for Bondvol lake, Toyyar lake, Carambolim lake, Pilerne lake, and Nanda lake. This highlights ongoing efforts to manage and protect these ecologically sensitive areas effectively.
The expansion of wetland notifications in Goa underscores the state's commitment to preserving its natural water resources and biodiversity, aligning with broader environmental goals.
