Fast-Tracking Wetland Conservation in Telangana

Telangana's Forest and Environment Minister, Konda Surekha, urges officials to expedite the notification and digital mapping of wetlands, essential for conservation. The meeting highlighted expert insights and public awareness as vital components. Plans include seeking Ramsar status for Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary, pending irrigation department review before approaching the Union Environment Ministry.

In a meeting on Wednesday, Telangana's Forest and Environment Minister, Konda Surekha, emphasized the urgent need to notify the state's wetlands for conservation purposes.

She directed officials to accelerate digital mapping and boundary identification, highlighting the significance of wetlands under the 2017 conservation rules. Surekha stressed the importance of expert opinions and local awareness programs.

With mapping completed for over 12,000 wetlands through the 'SAC Atlas', current efforts include officially securing Ramsar status for the Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary, pending input from the irrigation department and subsequent Union Ministry review.