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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Indore and Udaipur for being added to the list of 31 Wetland Accredited Cities in the world. He emphasized that this achievement highlights India's dedication to sustainable development and balancing urban growth with nature. The recognition comes under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, an international treaty focused on the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
Responding to Union Minister Bhupender Yadav's post on X, the Prime Minister said:
"Congratulations to Indore and Udaipur! This recognition reflects our strong commitment to sustainable development and nurturing harmony between nature and urban growth. May this feat inspire everyone to keep working towards creating greener, cleaner, and more eco-friendly urban spaces across our nation."
A Remarkable Achievement
This is a major step forward for India in urban environmental conservation. Indore and Udaipur have joined the exclusive group of 31 cities worldwide recognized for integrating wetland preservation into their urban plans. The Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change had nominated three Indian cities-Indore, Udaipur, and Bhopal-for the Wetland City Accreditation. While Bhopal was not selected, the success of Indore and Udaipur demonstrates the importance of wetlands in urban ecosystems.
Indore and Udaipur's Contributions
Indore, known for its cleanliness and innovative policies, is home to Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar site famous for attracting large numbers of water birds. Efforts are underway to develop the lake into a bird sanctuary, strengthening its role in biodiversity conservation.
Udaipur, often called the "City of Lakes," is renowned for its five major wetlands: Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai. These lakes are central to the city's heritage, climate stability, and protection against extreme weather events.
India's Commitment to Wetland Conservation
Since signing the Ramsar Convention in 1982, India has made significant progress in protecting its wetlands. Between 1982 and 2013, 26 wetlands were designated as Ramsar sites. After 2014, the country added 59 more sites, reflecting a stronger focus on wetland preservation. Tamil Nadu leads with 18 Ramsar sites, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 10.
Why Wetlands Matter
Wetlands provide essential services like flood control, water purification, and wildlife habitats. Their conservation is critical for sustainable urban development and ecological balance.
Indore and Udaipur's achievements not only enhance India's global standing in wetland conservation but also set an example for other cities to follow in creating greener, eco-friendly urban spaces.
