Noida Clears Encroachments, Pushes for Wetland Status for Five Ponds

The Forest Department in Noida has initiated efforts to designate five water bodies in the city as official wetlands, aiming to enhance their protection and ecological significance. Surajpur is the only recognized wetland in Noida, while the process of securing Dhanauri's wetland status has been ongoing for years.

Key Developments:

• Encroachment Removal: The Noida Authority recently cleared encroachments from five ponds, each larger than 2.25 hectares, in sectors 54, 91, 137, 167, and 168. These ponds are now eligible for wetland designation, which will ensure their conservation and proper management.
• Official Submission: The Noida Authority has requested district forest officials to compile detailed briefs on these water bodies, including their area, catchment, and influence zone, along with recommendations on permitted activities. These reports will be submitted to the UP-State Wetland Authority for consideration and potential designation as official wetlands.
• Importance of Wetland Status: Designating these ponds as wetlands would provide legal protection under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, preventing further encroachment and degradation. Wetlands play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, regulating water cycles, and providing habitat for migratory birds and local wildlife.

Environmental Significance:

• Biodiversity and Conservation: Environmentalists emphasise the need to conserve not only large water bodies but also smaller ones under 2.25 hectares, which are vital for local ecosystems, climate resilience, and groundwater recharge. Jaswinder Waraich, a Noida-based environmentalist, stressed the importance of protecting wetlands like Dhanauri, which are rich in biodiversity but face threats from neglect and apathy.
• Call for Comprehensive Conservation: Experts advocate for a broader approach to regional wetland conservation. Dr Pranab J Patar, an environment and sustainability expert, highlighted the necessity of protecting all water bodies in Gautam Budh Nagar, as outlined in the Integrated Wetland Management Plan. This includes safeguarding even smaller ponds, contributing significantly to ecosystem health.

Next Steps:

• Assessment and Decision: After receiving the detailed reports, the UP-State Wetland Authority will assess the ponds' eligibility as wetlands. If designated, these ponds will be granted legal protection and managed according to the guidelines set under wetland conservation rules.
• Community Involvement: The move to designate these ponds as wetlands has garnered support from environmentalists and local communities, which recognize their ecological and recreational value. There is a strong emphasis on involving stakeholders in the ongoing efforts to conserve and sustainably manage Noida's natural resources.

The designation of these ponds as wetlands is expected to significantly boost conservation efforts in Noida. It will ensure that these critical water bodies are preserved for future generations while supporting the region’s biodiversity and ecological balance.