Panjab’s Wetlands Decline as Pollution Threatens Migratory Birds

World Wetlands Day on 2 Feb highlighted the importance of wetlands, crucial for migratory birds and biodiversity, being under threat despite being integral to climate change mitigation. The Panjab government’s own bird census data reveals a steep decline in migratory bird populations—over 13.7% fewer birds visited six protected wetland areas in 2023-24 than the previous year (read more). Major wetlands in Panjab include Harike, Kanjli, Ropar, Nangal, Beas Conservation Reserve, and Ranjit Sagar, all designated Wetland Sites. Experts blame industrial waste, pesticide runoff, illegal sand mining, and climate shifts for degrading habitats. Harike, for instance, suffers from polluted waters from the river Satluj, whereas the river Beas remains relatively cleaner. Wetlands’ ecological significance is that they serve as carbon sinks and flood control systems. Marking World Wetlands Day, environmentalists at Harike Pattan held a Beda Yatra (boat ride) and nature walks to raise awareness. Harike, covering 41K hectares along the Satluj-Beas confluence, hosts endangered Indus River dolphins in the Beas and attracts migratory birds like Siberian cranes and northern shovelers. Non-governmental organizations Bhoomitra and the Public Action Committee (PAC) have organized these events annually since 2023 to promote eco-friendly activities, such as bird-watching and campaigns to reduce untreated sewage entering the Satluj. Activists cited the disastrous 2018 molasses leak in the Beas, which drastically reduced fishes in the river. Many attendees support fostering sustainable ecotourism, including campsites and bicycle paths to protect the wetland’s flora and fauna while providing economic incentives for locals. Environmentalists urge stricter regulation of polluters, public engagement, and scientific studies to restore fish populations and ensure safe drinking water. They also see potential for harnessing movements like Kale Pani Da Morcha (Black Waters Front) for a campaign confronting toxic water issues affecting Panjab and Rajasthan (read more).