📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Wannenes Genoa gallery photo. Made by unknown Kurd
Science
Sauj Jheel in Mainpuri declared Uttar Pradesh’s 14th Ramsar wetland site
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 17 Oct 2026, 05:34 AM
👁 20
The wetland at Sauj Jheel in Mainpuri district has been officially recognised as Uttar Pradesh’s 14th Ramsar site, strengthening the state’s network of internationally important wetlands.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in coordination with the Uttar Pradesh government, has added Sauj Jheel in Mainpuri district to the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance. This designation marks the lake as the 14th such site in the state, following earlier recognitions of wetlands like Keetham Lake and Sarsai Nawar.
Ramsar status brings heightened conservation obligations, requiring the authorities to maintain the ecological character of the lake, protect its biodiversity, and promote sustainable use of its resources. Local officials said the move will help attract funding for habitat restoration and bolster eco‑tourism initiatives.
Environmental groups welcomed the decision, noting that Sauj Jheel supports a range of migratory birds and aquatic species that are crucial for regional biodiversity. The designation also aligns with India’s broader commitments under the Ramsar Convention to safeguard wetland ecosystems.
Ramsar status brings heightened conservation obligations, requiring the authorities to maintain the ecological character of the lake, protect its biodiversity, and promote sustainable use of its resources. Local officials said the move will help attract funding for habitat restoration and bolster eco‑tourism initiatives.
Environmental groups welcomed the decision, noting that Sauj Jheel supports a range of migratory birds and aquatic species that are crucial for regional biodiversity. The designation also aligns with India’s broader commitments under the Ramsar Convention to safeguard wetland ecosystems.