World Wetlands Day: Experts share top tips, and sites to visit in and around Mumbai

Flamingos at Thane Creek. Pic Courtesy/Mangrove Foundation

From protecting biodiversity to reducing climate warming and maintaining a stable ecosystem, the role of wetlands in the functioning of the planet is often sidelined. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) signed the Convention of Wetlands on February 2, 1971, and has since marked the day as World Wetlands Day.

However, according to the UNEP, the world has seen a 35 per cent decrease in wetland spaces in the last 50 years. We speak to city-based conservationists and environmentalists on ways to protect these biodiversity havens.

Spreading the word

Kedar Gore, director, The Corbett Foundation
Wetlands not only attract rare birds, but also purify water. While Thane Creek has been declared a flamingo conservation site, there are other areas that need recognition.
. The younger generation should spread awareness on social media through pictures. If they spot migratory birds or see trash being dumped in these wetlands, highlighting it on social media will help.
. Start the conversation around wetlands preservation in your everyday life. A huge vote bank will help policymakers to take steps towards reserving them.
. Urban development and planning should become more ecologically conservative.
Where to visit: Uran mudflats, Navi Mumbai

Birdwatcher's heaven

Bivash Pandav, director, Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS)
Wetlands in Navi Mumbai are great bird watching sites. These areas attract several migratory bird species including the flamingos. Most birds migrating to Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary use these wetlands as roosting sites during high tide in the creek.
. Authorities should maintain the natural flow of water; do not obstruct the
water flowing in and out of these wetlands.
. If these places get redeveloped, it will hamper the rare wildlife that flies into Mumbai for six months. These birds are a sight that citizens of Mumbai must be proud about.
Where to visit: Panje wetland near Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust; NRI (Non-Residential Indian Complex) wetlands and DPS (Delhi Public School) wetlands in Navi Mumbai; Mankhurd saltpans

Need a citizen's movement

BN Kumar, director, NatConnect Foundation, Navi Mumbai
Despite some big decisions by the government, there is slow movement on the ground. There needs to be a greater involvement of people.
. Environment protection must be made part of election manifestos. Voters need to demand greater commitment from
their representatives.
. Keep an eye out for constructions in the neighbourhood, and be aware of changes.
. Public awareness is vital.
Where to visit: TS Chanakya Maritime University in Seawoods, Navi Mumbai; Bhandup Pumping Station

Promote value addition

Samarth Parab, chief nature education officer, wildlife (Maharashtra State Forest Department)
Wetlands play a major role in the urban ecosystem and are also effective value additions to the lives of citizens. These wetlands are carbon sinks that absorb atmospheric carbon and help cool
the atmosphere.
. The greatest threat to wetlands is from garbage dumping. Steps need to be taken to prevent waste being dumped at these locations.
. There is a need to focus on these wetlands as more than just recreational spaces. When they are aware of the true value, people will protect them as a resource.
Where to visit: Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Centre, Airoli (@coastalmarinebiodiversitycentreon Facebook); Nature Information Centre at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali

Systemise education on conservation

Manas Manjrekar, deputy director, research and capacity building, Mangrove Foundation
In an urban ecosystem, the wetlands are the main outlet for excess storm water. They act as sponges. They are also a key biodiversity hub. Awareness regarding wetland conservation is improving but needs to increase further. The government is taking all measures through social media and clean up drives to raise awareness among the people.
. There are more citizen-government partnerships where individual citizens can commit and participate in the upkeep of these spaces.
. Focus towards research
programmes that build information and conservation management can be strengthened.
Where to visit: Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Centre, Airoli; NRI Complex Wetlands, Navi Mumbai

Educating the youth

Over 25 schools will participate in a weekend event that will feature a children's play about the importance of wetlands preservation. The following panel discussion will have representatives from NGOs and Dr Rahul Khot, a scientist from BNHS.
ON February 4; 9 am onwards
AT Delhi Public School, Navi Mumbai.
Call 9867020985
Free