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.