Goa once again participated in the global observance of World Wetlands Day. This yearly event aims to raise awareness about the significance of wetlands and their pivotal role in preserving our environment. In a region renowned for its natural beauty and abundant biodiversity, the importance of wetlands cannot be overstated. ‘Wetlands and Human Well-being’ was the theme of World Wetlands Day 2024, highlighting the interconnectedness between wetlands and human life.
Wetlands are distinct ecosystems where water plays a central role, shaping the terrain and fostering a diverse range of plant and animal species. They act as natural filters, cleansing water and enhancing its quality, while also serving as buffers against floods and erosion. Moreover, wetlands provide crucial habitats for countless species, making them indispensable for biodiversity conservation.
According to Dr Pradip Sarmokadam, who is the Head of the Nodal Agency for Goa State Wetland Authority as well as the Member Secretary for Goa State Biodiversity Board, “The theme of World Wetland Day 2024 was wetlands and human beings.” He also notes, “15 wetlands are notified so far in the state of Goa and few more are in draft format which is an ongoing process.” This signifies a significant step towards wetland conservation in Goa.
To accurately identify wetlands, Goa has categorized them into three types: coastal, forest, and inland. Wetlands within Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) or forest areas are not notified under the Wetland Conservation and Management Rule of 2017. Following this categorization, 44 potential wetlands were identified for notification, out of which 15 have been officially notified, with 29 still in the draft stage.
“The preservation of Goa’s wetlands is not only a matter of environmental conservation but also a question of social and economic sustainability,” says Tallulah D’Silva, founder and principal architect, Sustainable/Green architect, educator, writer, TEDx speaker, and environmentalist. She emphasizes, “Because the children are the future, and the development of Goa will be in their hands to decide what to do with the fate of the wetlands is also in their hands; so we do a lot of outreach to create awareness about these with students. We have a group called the Goa Heritage Action Group that looks into preservation of what we call natural landscapes and we do a lot of outreach activities to create awareness about these with students.”
She also mentions, “Goa has very healthy wetlands and there are a lot of efforts taken to protect it. Traditionally, people have protected these wetland areas and paddy fields and everything has been protected by people who are locals. This underscores the role of local communities in preserving wetland ecosystems.”
She adds, “There are always threats because of the construction, more houses and urbanization. All these are generally threats for wetland but a lot of efforts are also taken to conserve them.”
Dr Pradip Sarmokadam further elaborates, “Many activities are taking place especially awareness about wetlands awareness campaigns are going on. There are some initiatives to clean ponds including some water infested wetlands. Cleaning of Pilerne Lake is ongoing for removal of water weeds.” This highlights ongoing efforts to conserve and restore wetlands in Goa.
He also adds, “We are very happy that the first wetland of Goa that is Ramsar site, that is Nanda Lake from Curchorem, has been designated as a Ramsar site of wetland of international importance,” demonstrating the importance of international recognition in safeguarding wetlands.
Tallulah reflects on the interconnectedness of ecosystems, “If you look at the larger landscape, wetlands are part of different ecosystems. There are also freshwater lakes and they all are interconnected. I think there is a need for engagement as much as possible to understand their value. Many of these wetlands are part of ecosystems where we also get our food security.”
She further emphasizes the importance of awareness and ownership among the younger generation, “The study that a lot of the children in schools do today is not enough to connect them to these vital landscapes. So, if we don’t teach them to own and to take ownership, they will not know the value. And therefore, they will not know the reason to preserve these.”
The celebration of World Wetlands Day serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving these invaluable ecosystems for future generations. It offers a platform for governments, organizations, and individuals to come together and reiterate their commitment to wetland conservation. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, one can ensure the long-term health and vitality of the wetlands.
From lush mangrove forests to tranquil freshwater lakes, Goa boasts a variety of wetland ecosystems, each playing a vital role in sustaining local biodiversity and supporting human livelihoods. Carambolim Lake, situated in the heart of North Goa, exemplifies the region’s wetland diversity. This freshwater lake serves as a sanctuary for birdwatchers, attracting numerous migratory bird species during the winter months. Visitors to Carambolim Lake can admire herons, egrets, and kingfishers, among other avian species, amidst lush green surroundings.
In South Goa, the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary harbors a diverse array of wetland habitats, including rivers, streams, and marshes. These wetlands support a rich variety of wildlife, from otters and crocodiles to various species of fish. Along Goa’s northern border, the Tiracol Wetland serves as a testament to the region’s coastal biodiversity. This mangrove ecosystem plays a crucial role in stabilizing shorelines, safeguarding coastal communities from erosion and storm surges.
It is essential to recognize the interconnectedness between wetlands and human well-being. Wetlands provide clean water, fertile soil, and essential resources for food and livelihoods. It also offers recreational opportunities and contribute to the region’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Preserving Goa’s wetlands is not just about environmental conservation; it is also about ensuring social and economic sustainability. By protecting and restoring these valuable ecosystems, one can secure a healthier and more prosperous future for all residents of Goa.