Surinsar-Mansar’s Conservation

The Surinsar-Mansar Ramsar Site, a vital ecological treasure in Jammu and Kashmir, is poised to embark on a transformative journey with the submission of its Integrated Management Plan (IMP) worth Rs 13 crore to the Union Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF). This significant development comes after years of delay, and if approved, the site will begin receiving funding under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme-National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Eco-Systems. Such an initiative not only highlights the importance of wetland conservation but also underscores the pressing need to safeguard these crucial ecosystems for ecological, cultural, and economic benefits. Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth, serving as reservoirs of biodiversity and natural buffers against environmental challenges. They play a crucial role in water purification, flood control, and carbon sequestration while supporting livelihoods and offering recreational and aesthetic value. For the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, wetlands like Wular Lake, Surinsar-Mansar, Hokera, Hygam, and Shailbugh sustain the region’s unique biodiversity and cultural heritage. The Ramsar Convention designates these wetlands as internationally significant, emphasizing their conservation and sustainable use. However, managing such ecosystems effectively requires robust planning and sufficient funding. The NPCA, a scheme that provides comprehensive support for wetland conservation, holds immense potential to address these needs.
Despite the acknowledged importance of wetlands, many sites in Jammu and Kashmir have struggled to receive adequate attention and resources. Of the five Ramsar sites in the region, only Wular Lake has seen substantial funding under NPCA. The lack of timely submission and approval of Integrated Management Plans has hampered the ability of other wetlands to benefit from this critical scheme. For the Surinsar-Mansar Ramsar Site, the delay in submitting its IMP underscores a broader issue of bureaucratic inertia and insufficient prioritization. As wetlands continue to face threats from encroachment, pollution, and climate change, such delays exacerbate their vulnerability. The need for proactive and timely interventions cannot be overstated.
The NPCA offers a holistic approach to wetland management, encompassing activities such as wastewater treatment, shoreline protection, lakefront development, desilting, biodiversity conservation, and community participation. By addressing both ecological and socio-economic dimensions, the scheme ensures that conservation efforts are sustainable and inclusive. For Surinsar-Mansar, inclusion under NPCA funding could mean a transformative boost to its conservation efforts. The proposed IMP, valued at Rs 13 crore, aims to tackle key challenges such as siltation, invasive species, and water quality degradation. Additionally, initiatives like bio-fencing, biodiversity conservation, and awareness campaigns could foster greater community involvement, ensuring long-term success. All these are important keeping in view that much-hyped Mansar-Suriansar rejuvenation plans have hit roadblocks.
The Ministry of Environment and Forest’s 2017 Wetlands (Conservation & Management) Rules and the recent guidelines for NPCA implementation provide a robust framework for wetland conservation. These guidelines emphasize the need for integrated management, stakeholder collaboration, and capacity building. For Jammu and Kashmir, leveraging these guidelines to streamline project preparation and approval processes is essential. Establishing a dedicated institutional mechanism for wetland management at the state level could further enhance efficiency and accountability. Collaborative efforts involving local communities, researchers, and policymakers are key to bridging the gap between planning and execution.
The success of any conservation initiative hinges on the active participation of local communities. Wetlands like Surinsar-Mansar hold cultural and economic significance for nearby populations, offering opportunities for eco-tourism, sustainable fishing, and agriculture. Engaging these communities in decision-making and conservation activities can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.
However, the progress must be matched with swift approval and implementation to ensure tangible outcomes. The lessons learnt from Wular Lake’s experience underscore the importance of timely fund disbursal and effective project execution. The present opportunity should serve as a catalyst for broader, more inclusive efforts to protect and restore the region’s invaluable aquatic ecosystems. By prioritising action, the Union Territory can ensure that its wetlands continue to thrive as vital lifelines for coming generations.