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14th November 2024 (10 Topics)

Panje Wetland

Context

The Panje wetland in Navi Mumbai, a 289-hectare site, has gone dry due to the blocked flow of intertidal waters, despite the state’s directive to maintain the tidal flow. 

About Panje Wetland

  • Panje wetland is a vast expanse of a low-lying inter-tidal area in Uran taluka of Raigad district in Maharashtra.
  • It is bordered by the fishing villages of Panje, Phunde, Bokadvira and Dongri.
  • Panje Wetland is the largest migratory water bird congregation site in Navi Mumbai and one of the best birding sites in Maharashtra.
  • Panje typically draws 50 bird species, with around 30 being migratory. These birds, including flamingos from Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary, rely on Panje and similar wetlands for survival. 
    • Other important species include Northern Pintail, Ruddy Shelduck, Bar and Black-tailed Godwits, Ruddy Turnstone, Glossy Ibis, Curlew Sandpiper, Kentish Plover, Slender-billed Gull and Pacific Golden Plover.
  • Panje wetland plays a critical role in supporting local fishing communities, who now face dwindling resources.

Wetlands in India

  • India is home to a diverse array of wetlands, with a total of 1,307 across the country.
  • Among these, 113 are recognized as significant wetlands due to their ecological importance and contribution to biodiversity.
  • Within this group, 85 wetlands have been designated as Ramsar sites.
  • These wetlands are protected under various national laws, including the
  • Indian Forest Act (1927)
  • Forest (Conservation) Act (1980)
  • Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act (1972)
  • The wetlands are credited with several benefits to the local environment such as influencing the local hydrological cycle, climatic regime, water purification, flood control, and giving stability to the shoreline.

Recent Developments in Wetland Conservation in India

  • Wetlands of India Portal
  • National Wetland Decadal Change Atlas
  • Centre for Wetland Conservation and Management (CWCM)
  • Wetlands Rejuvenation Programme
  • Integration with River Basin Management
  • National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems
  • Amrit Dharohar Scheme
  • MoEFCC's Wetlands Rejuvenation Programme
  • National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-2031)

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