Wetlands were once seen as unproductive wastelands avoided by most and often drained, filled or used as dumping grounds. Over time their importance has become clear. Wetlands provide essential habitats for fish, waterfowl and other wildlife, filter pollutants from water and help mitigate the impact of floods and storms. They also offer opportunities for fishing, hunting, photography and wildlife observation. As their ecological value becomes better understood, wetlands are increasingly recognised as resources that deserve protection and restoration. Wetlands support countless species by supplying water and nutrients essential for survival. They play a key role in maintaining biodiversity, replenishing groundwater and controlling floods. Despite their importance, wetlands worldwide are in decline. Studies show that their area and quality continue to shrink. In Jammu and Kashmir wetland loss has been severe. During the ongoing session of the Legislative Assembly government data has revealed that between 2011 and 2021 the region’s total wetland cover dropped from 3,91,501 hectares to just 1,64,110 hectares—a loss of more than 57% in a decade. Encroachments, unregulated urban expansion, pollution and climate change have all contributed to this decline. Major wetlands such as Hokersar, Wular and Dal Lake have suffered from shrinking water levels and human activity. Hokersar, known as the ‘Queen Wetland of Kashmir’ and a designated Ramsar site, is one of the last remaining wetlands in the region with intact reedbeds. It serves as a crucial habitat for 68 species of waterfowl including the endangered White-eyed Pochard. India now has 89 Ramsar sites, the highest in Asia and third globally behind the United Kingdom and Mexico. The country’s Ramsar list has grown in recent years and it highlights a rising awareness of wetland conservation. Despite policy measures such as the Wetlands (Conservation & Management) Rules 2017 and the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification the destruction of wetlands in Jammu and Kashmir has continued. Conservationists warn that without immediate action these ecosystems could be lost entirely. Strict enforcement of wetland protection laws, removal of illegal encroachments and large-scale restoration efforts are needed. Experts emphasise that desilting, controlling sewage discharge and promoting community-led conservation must be prioritised before water scarcity and ecological collapse become irreversible. First authorities must crack down on encroachments and illegal construction around wetlands. Existing wetland protection laws, including the Wetlands (Conservation & Management) Rules 2017, should be strictly implemented with violators facing legal consequences. Large-scale encroachments must be removed and buffer zones should be established to prevent further damage. At the same time scientific restoration efforts are necessary to revive degraded wetlands. This includes desilting to restore water retention capacity, controlling sewage and industrial waste discharge and curbing excessive groundwater extraction. Local residents, farmers and fishermen should be made partners in conservation efforts. Public awareness campaigns and incentives for sustainable practices can encourage responsible behaviour. Wetland-based eco-tourism when properly regulated could also create economic benefits while promoting conservation. Policymakers must integrate wetland conservation into urban planning and agricultural policies. Expanding wetlands should be prioritised over construction projects that disrupt natural water systems.
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