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Bhopal, August 13 (HS). Bhopal and Indore are the first two cities in the country to have proposed for recognition as wetland cities. This information was given in the fourth meeting of the State Wetland Authority here on Tuesday. Environment and Forest Minister Ramniwas Rawat chaired the meeting and directed to plant trees on the banks of rivers and ponds and to prevent rivers and ponds from getting polluted by the city's sewage.
Minister Rawat said that Madhya Pradesh is a state rich in rivers and ponds. The government and society should jointly conserve the ponds. He said that the state government is committed to the proper conservation of ponds. Saving water sources is the top priority of the state government.
In the meeting, Principal Secretary of Environment Department Gulshan Bamra gave information about the important points of the Authority's work and action plan. Member Secretary Sanjeev Singh discussed the agenda points. Minister Rawat said that the Forest and Environment Department should jointly plant trees on the banks of the ponds of the state in the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign.
Minister Rawat unveiled the logo of the State Wetland Authority. The logo designed by Shafa S. Maval was recommended for the first prize of Rs 50,000 and the logo designed by Abino Simon was recommended for the second prize of Rs 25,000.
Minister Rawat praised the works and activities of the State Wetland Authority. Member Secretary of State Wetland Authority and Executive Director of APCO Sanjeev Singh, Commissioner of Town and Country Investment Directorate Shrikant Bhanot, Member Secretary of Madhya Pradesh Biodiversity Board Sudeep Singh, Secretary of Forest Department Atul Mishra, Commissioner of Bhopal Municipal Corporation Harendra Narayan, Additional Secretary of Revenue Department Sanjay Kumar, Director of Fisheries Department and senior officials of all concerned departments were present.
Let us tell you that Sirpur Wetland located in Indore is a man-made wetland, which has been developed with natural features in the last two centuries. Commonly known as Pakshi Vihar (Bird Sanctuary), this site is a shallow, alkaline, nutrient-rich lake. It protects plants and animals including endangered species. It provides the necessary and conducive environment for the life of about 175 terrestrial plant species, six macrophytes, 30 natural and fish species, eight reptiles and amphibians.
Waterfowl come here during the winter season. About 130 bird species have been seen here. These include Common Pochard (Aythya ferina), Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus) and Indian River Tern (Sterna aurantia). Sirpur Wetland connects the communities living nearby with fisheries and medicinal plant activities. Prevents flooding. Local people come here for peace, recreation and education on environmental conservation.
