Wetlands at Risk: Delhi's Natural Valves Under Siege

A decade-spanning study has revealed a concerning nine per cent reduction in Delhi's wetlands, attributing the decline to relentless urban expansion. Conducted by Delhi University, HCL Tech, and Terna Global Business School, the research underscores the critical need for conservation in the face of pressing urban demands.

The findings, published in Research in Ecology, show the city's wetland area plummeted from 32.9 square kilometers in 2000 to 30.2 sq km in 2022. Concurrently, Delhi's built-up regions surged by over 70 per cent, markedly affecting natural water systems like the Yamuna River and various lakes.

The report urges immediate action, suggesting the implementation of strict zoning laws and modern technology like satellite monitoring to halt illegal land use. Declaring wetlands as protected zones and fostering community restoration efforts are among the strategies recommended to preserve these vital ecosystems.