Chhari-Dhandh Wetland Gains Ramsar Status

Chhari-Dhandh Wetland Conservation Reserve - Summary Notes

Ramsar Site Designation

• Designation Date: January 31, 2026.
• Location: Kachchh district, Gujarat, India.
• Significance: 5th Ramsar Site in Gujarat and the first in the Kachchh region, marking a milestone in India's wetland conservation efforts.

Importance of Chhari-Dhandh

• Ecosystem Type: Unique wetland ecosystem at the intersection of desert, grassland, and wetland landscapes.
• Biodiversity: Supports over 283 bird species, including:
  • 11 globally threatened species.
  • 9 Near Threatened species.
• Bird Diversity: 187 bird species documented in Chhari-Dhandh, accounting for over 35% of Gujarat’s avifaunal diversity.
• Migratory Birds: Serves as a key habitat for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway.

Ecological and Tourism Insights

• Visitor Demographics: Over 80% of visitors are foreign tourists from Nordic countries, the USA, and the UK; visitors from 52 countries have accessed the site.
• Bird Count: In April 2025, an estimated 500-600 Grey Hypocolius (Hypocolius ampelinus) were recorded in the reserve.

Conservation History

• Initial Notification: Designated as Gujarat’s first Conservation Reserve in August 2008 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• Conservation Actions: Implemented habitat protection, ecological monitoring, and community participation for long-term preservation and climate resilience.

Area and Features

• Size: Approximately 22,700 hectares encompassing 12 villages.
• Ecosystem Convergence: Includes tropical thorn forest, Banni grassland, and Little Rann landscape which foster diverse habitats critical for ecological balance.

Global Ecological Significance

• Designation Rationale: Recognized for its rare desert wetland character, high biodiversity, and role as a critical migratory bird habitat.
• Bird Migration Route: Chhari-Dhandh provides essential feeding and resting grounds for migratory birds from Central Asia, Iran, and Siberia.

Conclusion

The Chhari-Dhandh Wetland Conservation Reserve's recognition as a Ramsar Site underscores its global ecological importance and reflects India's commitment to wetland conservation initiatives, enhancing biodiversity protection and promoting ecotourism.