Uttarakhand Forest Department is preparing to enhance facilities at the Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve, the exclusive habitat of swamp deer in the state. Their goal is to promote eco-tourism in this area.
Swamp deer, classified as vulnerable in the IUCN Red List, hold significant importance in this marshy location in the Haridwar district. As per reports, the primary focus is to improve the wetlands by nurturing the grasslands for the swamp deer. Moreover, the forest department is introducing day tours that will allow visitors to enter the reserve in their vehicles upon payment of an entry fee, and the income generated will be used to maintain the reserve.
To ensure a smooth experience for visitors, authorities will work on improving the existing 35 km road network and establish upgraded public restrooms and cafeterias.
Located across 37 sq km in Haridwar, the Jhilmil wetland was one of the first sites in India to receive conservation reserve status in 2005. It is well-known for its numerous seasonal and perennial swamps formed by river channels, and it is home to a variety of wildlife, including spotted deer, barasingha, elephants, and leopards. Over the last decade, the wetland has reportedly welcomed around 18,000 visitors, generating approximately INR 42 lakh for the state. For birdwatching enthusiasts, Jhilmil is a fantastic destination with many bird species.
A visit to Jhilmil Jheel can be combined with a trip to the nearby Rajaji National Park or Haridwar. The central wetland area consists of an oxbow lake surrounded by numerous seasonal and perennial swamps resulting from the gradual shifting of river channels. The terrain in this region features a diverse mix of short and tall grasslands, tropical mixed moist deciduous forests and secondary scrub.
Where: It is located near the Rajaji National Park, under Haridwar Forest Division.
