Jaipur: The department of environment and climate change has launched an exercise to prepare Integrated wetland management plans for 15 wetlands and Zonal Master Plans for the eco-sensitive zones of two wildlife sanctuaries.For the same, a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed Wednesday between the department of environment and climate change, Govt of Rajasthan, and RITES Limited to develop long-term scientific frameworks for the conservation and management of key wetlands and ecologically sensitive areas.“The plans will include GIS-based mapping, biodiversity assessments, hydrological studies, catchment management, threat analysis and stakeholder consultations,” an official said.The plans will also identify sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities while providing a roadmap for the conservation, restoration and wise use of wetland ecosystems.The selected wetlands include Pushkar Talab (Baran), Jetsagar (Bundi), Mangalwad Talab (Chittorgarh), Sabella Talab (Dungarpur), Kishore Sagar (Kota), Lakhotiya Talab (Pali), Rewasa (Sikar), Jhadol Talab and Menar Talab (Udaipur), Kesariyawad (Pratapgarh), Lakherav Talab (Sirohi), Bada Talab (Ajmer), Badbela Talab (Jhalawar), Samai Kheda (Bharatpur) and Charwas (Churu).“The initiative is expected to improve wetland health, strengthen water security, enhance climate resilience and support the implementation of the wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017,” the official added.Expressing serious concern over Rajasthan’s deteriorating wetlands, the Rajasthan High Court in Jodhpur directed the state govt to submit comprehensive reports on their identification, notification, conservation, and management. The court emphasised that these critical ecological assets are essential for groundwater recharge, flood moderation, biodiversity, water purification, and climate resilience in the water-stressed state.Concurrently, Zonal Master Plans will be prepared for the eco-sensitive zones around the Tal Chhapar and Kesarbagh wildlife sanctuaries, utilising field surveys, GIS mapping, and ecological and socio-economic data for detailed land-use planning.“The plans will identify forests, water bodies, catchments, agricultural lands, cultural heritage sites and areas with eco-tourism potential. They will also incorporate measures for habitat protection, groundwater and watershed management, restoration of degraded areas, regulation of tourism activities, and preservation of natural and cultural heritage,” the proposal stated.
