Hokersar, Srinagar marked the celebration of World Wetland Day with fervor as environmentalists, officials, and participants emphasised the crucial need to preserve these vital ecosystems. Ifshan Dewan, Warden of the Wetland Division in Kashmir, stressed the urgency, stating, “We need to preserve these wetlands; it’s the need of the hour as they are shrinking day by day.”
Highlighting the significance of wetlands, another official emphasized, “Wetlands are not wastelands; they are like kidneys to us. They provide us with groundwater crucial for agriculture and horticulture purposes.” The analogy underscores the indispensable role wetlands play in maintaining ecological balance and sustaining various ecosystems.
Participants in the program also voiced their insights, shedding light on the lesser-known benefits of wetlands. One participant remarked, “Wetlands help us purify water; most people don’t know this. We need to make people aware of the wetlands and their benefits.”
The celebratory program was hailed as instrumental in raising awareness, ensuring participants left with a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving these vital ecosystems for future generations
