Shortfalls

We have earlier read the definition of wetland given by Ramsar convention earlier in this topic. The 2010 wetland rules followed the definition of Ramsar convention.

However, the 2017 rules, in the definition of wetland do not include river channels, paddy fields, man-made water bod-ies/tanks specifically for drinking water purposes and structures specifically constructed for aquaculture, salt production, recreation, and irrigation purposes.

By this new definition (exclusion of aforesaid wetlands) close to 65 % wetland in the country will lose the status of wetlands. The management and protection awarded to river channels, man-made wetlands will be no more effective as they are not considered wetlands.

The definition of wetlands and its inclusion is done by the respective state/ UT. This may lead to a lack of uniformity in defining and conserving the wetlands in the country.

The older provision of appealing to the National Green Tribunal does not exist in the 2017 Rules.

There is also no timeline specified for phasing out solid waste and untreated waste from being dumped into wetlands.

The new rules do not take into account the Jagpal Singh vs State of Punjab (2011) judgment of Supreme Court for the restoration of encroached wetlands throughout the country.

Key to wetland conservation is not just understanding regimes of multiple uses but conserving and managing the integrity of the wetland ecosystem.

Do you know?

♤ Gujarat has the largest area of wetland in the country. Lakshadweep has the highest percentage of wetland in its own geographical area for a state / UT.