Govt assures conservation of wetland in Gr Noida

GREATER NOIDA: A day after Hindustan Times reported the discovery of a new wetland in Greater Noida, the Uttar Pradesh government said it would initiate steps to conserve the natural zone — a breeding habitat of Sarus crane and home to 133 other species of birds.

Some birdwatchers had stumbled upon the 26-acre wetland in the Dhanauri Khurd village located in Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) area. “We have conducted a survey after the HT report and found there is a 26-acre wetland in Dhanauri village in revenue records. I directed the range officer concerned to visit the site. We have decided to list this wetland in our district records for its conservation. I will myself inspect the site over the weekend,” said KK Singh divisional forest officer, Gautam Budh Nagar.

“We need to conduct a detailed survey of this wetland and ponds in nearby villages to ascertain how variety of migratory and resident birds are living in this area. This wetland was not listed in our record,” said Singh.

Villagers said 10 years ago, thousands of Sarus crane used to breed in this area. But now because of encroachment and change in climate, the number of birds has come down drastically.

“We will conduct an inspection in villages to identify wetland, ponds and grazing land from tomorrow (Tuesday),” said Subash Chaudhary range officer, UP forest department.

“If the forest department confirms it is a wetland on government land, we have no problems in protecting it,” said PC Gupta chief executive officer (CEO), YEIDA. “Sarus, known for its trumpet and height, is tallest among flying birds. Sarus is known as an epitome of togetherness because they mate for life and sulk the failure of their mates to an extreme of starving to death,” said Anand Arya one of the many birdwatchers, who discovered the wetland.