New Delhi witnessed a vibrant celebration of World Wetlands Day at the Yamuna Biodiversity Park managed by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). Held at the amphitheater near the restored wetlands, the event centered on the theme ‘Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage.’ It highlighted how conservation of these vital ecosystems is deeply rooted in age-old practices, far from being a modern invention.
Over 350 enthusiastic participants gathered, including students and researchers from Delhi University colleges such as SPM College, Keshav Mahavidyalaya, School of Business Economics, Zakir Husain College, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee College, IP College for Women, Delhi Skill and Entrepreneurship University, Satyavati College, MV College of Education, Mata Sundri College, and Shivaji College. UPSC aspirants, educators, journalists, nature enthusiasts, local community members, and DDA officials also joined the festivities.
DDA Vice Chairman Dr. N. Saravana Kumar addressed the assembly, emphasizing the crucial role of land management and urban governance in protecting cities from natural disasters like floods. He noted that nearly 15 percent of Delhi’s geographical area is covered by DDA parks, accessible to the public, and seven biodiversity parks developed with CEMDE (DU) collaboration are significantly enhancing citizens’ quality of life.
Dr. Kumar spotlighted DDA’s efforts in clearing encroachments from Yamuna floodplains and developing Bansera and Asita Parks, urging students to visit these ecological sites. Professor CR Babu stressed that all rivers originate from wetlands—be they glaciers, lakes, or ponds—and Earth’s survival hinges on their conservation and restoration. He revealed that over 87 percent of the world’s wetlands have vanished, with most remaining ones rendered ineffective.
Dr. Shashank Shekhar from Delhi University’s Geology Department explained wetlands’ role in sustaining river flows. Biodiversity parks on floodplains, he said, regulate nutrient cycles, reduce pollution, and prevent nutrient buildup in rivers. Professor Yamini Gupta from the Business Economics Department underscored the wetlands’ economic value at $26.4 trillion, surpassing many nations’ GDPs.
The event concluded with an award ceremony for a photography contest organized by Rajdhani College and Swadhyaya Seva Foundation. Dr. M. Shah Hussain offered thanks, and participants enjoyed a guided nature trail, spotting migratory birds like Northern Shoveler, Northern Pintail, Great Cormorant, Gadwall, and Teal in the park’s wetland zones.