New Ramsar Sites in India

Recently, Siliserh Lake in Alwar, Rajasthan and Kopra Jalashay near Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh have been officially designated as Ramsar Sites, joining the list of wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.

About Ramsar Sites

Ramsar Sites are wetlands designated under the Ramsar Convention (1971) for their international ecological, hydrological, and biodiversity significance. India has been actively expanding its network of Ramsar Sites to promote wetland conservation and biodiversity protection.

1. Siliserh Lake, Rajasthan

Location and Origin

• Situated in Alwar, Rajasthan, within the buffer zone of Sariska Tiger Reserve.

• It is a human-made lake, built in 1845 by Maharaja Vinay Singh to supply drinking water to Alwar city.

• The lake lies in a semi-arid zone and serves as an important water source for the local ecology.

Fauna and Biodiversity

• Supports 149 bird species and 17 mammal species, including:

  • Vulnerable species: River tern (Sterna aurantia),

  • Endangered species: Tiger (Panthera tigris).

• The lake also hosts more than 1% of the biogeographic population of black stork (Ciconia nigra), highlighting its global conservation significance.

2. Kopra Jalashay, Chhattisgarh

Location and Significance

• Located near Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, in the upper catchments of the Mahanadi River.

• It is a reservoir with strong hydrological and ecological connectivity, contributing to a wide variety of habitats in the region.

Fauna and Biodiversity

• Supports over 60 migratory bird species, which rely on it for nesting, feeding, and as a stop-over site during migration.

• Notable species include:

  • Vulnerable species: Greater spotted eagle (Aquila clanga),

  • Endangered species: Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus).

Significance of Designation

• Both lakes are now recognized as wetlands of international importance.

• The designation helps in enhancing conservation efforts, safeguarding migratory and resident species, and maintaining ecological balance in their respective regions.

• Encourages research, tourism, and sustainable management of these wetlands under national and international frameworks.