Sukhna Wetland Moves Closer to Ramsar Recognition, A First for Chandigarh

In a notable step towards conservation, the State Wetland Authority of UT Chandigarh has approved a proposal to designate Sukhna Wetland as a Ramsar site. If accepted, it would become Chandigarh’s first Ramsar-recognised wetland, placing it on the global map for environmental importance.

This designation would not only bring international recognition to Sukhna Wetland but also enhance efforts to preserve its ecological integrity. It underscores the site's importance as both a natural habitat and a cultural landmark, further strengthening its protection and sustainable management.

Proposal Moves To Centre For Final Clearance

The approved proposal to designate Sukhna Wetland in Chandigarh as a Ramsar site will now be forwarded to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) for further action. The ministry will coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ramsar Secretariat to complete the process. The decision was taken during the fourth meeting of the State Wetland Authority, held under the chairmanship of Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria

Sukhna Wetland spans approximately 565 acres, with a much larger catchment area covering around 10,395 acres. Recognising its ecological value, the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests designated the lake as a national wetland in 1988, marking it for long-term conservation. To further safeguard its biodiversity and support ecological balance, the surrounding catchment area was later notified as the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary.

Integrated Plan Approved

The State Wetland Authority has approved a five-year Integrated Management Plan for Sukhna Wetland. Prepared by the Forest Department in consultation with other Chandigarh administration departments, the INR 22.5 crore plan focuses on protection, scientific management, and ecological restoration.

It outlines key activities such as maintaining water levels, conserving aquatic life, and improving cleanliness around the wetland. The proposal will be submitted to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for funding under the National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA) scheme.

Tourism And Pollution Control Measures

The plan also includes provisions to enhance tourist facilities while ensuring minimal environmental impact. To reduce pollution, the number of solar-powered boats on the lake will be increased. During the review meeting, UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria directed all departments to take time-bound action for the conservation of Sukhna Lake and other water bodies across the Union Territory.

Why Ramsar Recognition Matters

A Ramsar site is a wetland recognised as being of international importance under the Ramsar Convention — an intergovernmental treaty adopted in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran. India became a signatory on February 1, 1982. Wetlands are vital ecosystems that act as natural water purifiers, flood buffers, and rich habitats for biodiversity. They play a key role in groundwater recharge, carbon storage, and climate regulation. The Ramsar Convention provides a global framework to identify and protect such ecologically significant wetlands, ensuring their sustainable use and long-term conservation.

Designation as a Ramsar site brings global recognition to a wetland, supporting its long-term conservation and sustainable use. It helps safeguard biodiversity and vital ecological functions while attracting both national and international funding.

The status encourages greater public awareness and involvement from both rural and urban communities. Additionally, Ramsar recognition strengthens institutional frameworks and policies aimed at the wise use and protection of wetland ecosystems.

Ramsar-Designated Wetlands

As of June 2025, India has 91 Ramsar sites, following the addition of the Khichan and Menar wetlands in Rajasthan. These wetlands are recognised as being of “international importance” under the Ramsar Convention. Globally, as of August 2025, there are 2,544 Ramsar sites covering over 257 million hectares across 172 contracting countries. The Ramsar List forms the world’s largest network of protected wetlands, spanning both coastal and inland ecosystems.

FAQs

What are wetlands?
Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil or is present near the surface, either permanently or seasonally. They include marshes, swamps, lakes, rivers, and coastal areas that support diverse plant and animal life.

Why are wetlands important?
Wetlands act as natural water filters, help control floods, recharge groundwater, support biodiversity, and regulate climate. They provide habitat for many species and offer benefits like water purification and carbon storage.

What is the Ramsar Convention?
The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty established in 1971 to conserve and sustainably manage wetlands of global importance. It promotes wise use and protects vital wetland ecosystems worldwide.

What does it mean for a wetland to be a Ramsar site?
A Ramsar site is a wetland recognised as internationally important under the Ramsar Convention. This status helps safeguard the wetland through conservation efforts, funding, and global cooperation.

Why is Ramsar designation important for wetlands?
Ramsar recognition raises awareness, attracts funding, supports policy frameworks, and promotes sustainable use, ensuring the long-term protection of crucial wetland habitats for future generations.