SURAJPUR WETLAND CONSERVATION

Prelims Bits

Location: Greater Noida, Gautam Budh Nagar district, Uttar Pradesh

Area: 325 hectares

Environmental Threats

• Pollution from untreated wastewater discharge into wetland channels.
• Degradation of habitat affecting biodiversity.

Significance

• Critical for biodiversity, hosting migratory birds during winter.
• Supports species like Spot-billed Duck, Bar-headed Goose, and Red-crested Pochard.
• Features tropical moist and dry deciduous vegetation.

Water Sources and Terrain

• Primarily rain-fed with supplementary sources like the Hawalia drain (Hindan River) and Tilapta irrigation canal.
• Terrain: Flat with a mix of terrestrial and wetland zones.
• Lacustrine soil supports unique vegetation.

Conservation Efforts

• Collaborative projects by Uttar Pradesh Forest Department, WWF-India, and Greater Noida Authority since 2010.
• Focused on ecological restoration and development as a bird sanctuary.
• Engaging NGOs, research institutes, and environmental experts for long-term sustainability.

Cultural Significance

• Linked to legends from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
• Cultural ties with local Gurjjar and Bhati Rajput communities.

The Surajpur Wetland remains an ecological and cultural treasure that requires sustained conservation efforts to protect its rich biodiversity and heritage.