Kopra Reservoir earns prestigious global Wetland Status

 

 

 

 

A significant milestone has been achieved for conservation in Chhattisgarh as the breathtaking Kopra Reseroir has been officially inscribed on the Ramsar List, recognising it as a Wetland of International Importance (Site no. 2583). This designation, announced alongside Rajasthan’s Siliserh Lake, brings India’s total number of protected Ramsar Sites to a proud 96.

 

The Kopra Reservoir, originally constructed as a reservoir for vital irrigation purposes, now stands as a testament to the strong ecological connectivity and biodiversity of the Mahanadi River’s upper catchment areas. Surrounded primarily by farmlands and local villages, this extensive open-water area has developed shallow, nutrient-rich backwaters that create a complex and varied habitat, crucial for countless species. The reservoir is celebrated as a vital stopover and refuge for migratory birds, supporting more than 60 species on their long-distance journeys. It provides essential grounds for nesting, feeding, and resting. The wetland is a critical haven for globally threatened species. Noteworthy visitors include the Vulnerable Greater Spotted Eagle (Aquila clanga) and the Endangered Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus).

 

The mere presence of these iconic species underscores the reservoir’s immense ecological value. Birdwatching enthusiasts and local communities alike appreciate the site’s natural beauty and the spectacular display of its avian residents. The reservoir acts as a “green pocket” near the urban areas of Bilaspur, connecting people to nature and reinforcing the importance of local habitat protection. Despite its importance, the Kopra Reservoir faces serious ecological challenges, which the new Ramsar status will help address. The primary threats stem from siltation, the spread of invasive non-native species, and the impact of intensive agriculture in the surrounding landscape. As the reservoir is a significant source of water for the region’s fertile lands, balancing the needs of agriculture with ecological preservation is key.

 

The Ramsar designation is expected to catalyze concerted efforts to combat these threats. While conservation measures are already proposed, the official designation paves the way for the preparation and implementation of a comprehensive management plan, ensuring the sustainable future of this ecological gem. This international recognition solidifies Kopra Reservoir’s role not just as a local water body, but as a globally significant contributor to wetland biodiversity.

 

The inclusion on the Ramsar List provides access to international expertise and funding, strengthening the state government’s efforts to enhance environmental protection, water conservation, and biodiversity for the region. The focus now shifts to preparing a robust management plan that will integrate conservation activities such as potentially addressing desilting and de-weeding, conducting water quality monitoring, and involving local communities to secure the reservoir’s future as a flourishing sanctuary for both the people and the remarkable wildlife of Chhattisgarh.