In an exclusive interview with Outlook Business, Monali Sen, Special Secretary of the Department of Forest, Environment & Climate Change in Rajasthan and Member Secretary of the State Wetland Authority, sheds light on the innovative measures being undertaken to protect and conserve the state's wetlands. Her expertise is evident in her extensive research and case studies, including notable work on Keoladeo National Park and the investigation of avian botulism at Sambhar Salt Lake.
Given the vulnerability of wetlands to climate change impacts, what specific measures are being taken to assess and mitigate these risks in Rajasthan’s wetlands?
We are collaborating with the State Remote Sensing Application Centre (SRSAC) in Jodhpur to digitalise maps and inventory all wetlands larger than 2.25 hectares. This facilitates detailed spatio-temporal analysis of Ramsar wetlands’ hydrology using remote sensing technology. Recognising wetlands as natural carbon sinks, we’re assessing their carbon sequestration capacity and ecosystem services. We conduct quarterly health monitoring of wetlands through soil and water sampling to promptly address signs of toxicity, organic growth, or mineral enrichment.
How can wetland conservation be leveraged as a nature-based solution to climate change adaptation and mitigation?
Wetlands store large amounts of carbon in their soils and vegetation, which inhibits the release of CO2 into the atmosphere. Preserving and restoring wetlands helps maintain these crucial carbon sinks, reducing atmospheric CO2 concentrations and combating global warming. Additionally, healthy wetlands enhance ecosystem resilience, providing a buffer against climate-related challenges such as extreme weather events.
What are the key challenges and opportunities in restoring degraded wetlands in Rajasthan, and how can we ensure restoration efforts prioritise ecological integrity and long-term sustainability?
Restoring degraded wetlands in Rajasthan faces challenges like developmental pressures, invasive alien species, and water level depletion, especially in our arid climate. We address these with wetland-specific Integrated Management Plans (IMP), including catchment area treatment, to balance conservation with development needs and ensure stakeholder participation.
What are the steps taken to ensure that wetland conservation remains a priority in the face of competing land use demands and development pressures?
Wetland conservation is crucial, highlighted by water scarcity in South Africa and floods in Bangalore, emphasising their role in groundwater recharge and flood control. We employ a citizen-centric approach to communicate water resource significance effectively. Legal protections under the Wetland (Conservation & Management) Rules, 2017, restrict land conversion or utilisation without State Wetland Authority sanction, further safeguarding ecosystems.