World Wetlands Day under the theme “Wetlands & Human Well Being”, was observed at “Doyang Wetland Reservoir” on February 2. The event was graced by IFS, PCCF & Chief Wildlife Warden and Nodal Officer, State Wetland Vedpal Singh as special guest.
The programme was organized by Wokha Forest Division and Doyang Plantation Division Department of Environment, Forest & Climate Change.
In his address, Vedpal Singh, emphasized on the primary objective of World Wetlands Day, which according to him was to raise awareness about the significance of wetlands. He underscored the vital roles played by wetlands in groundwater recharge, biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and overall environmental health. Singh highlighted the day as a global platform advocating for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
Pointing out that nearly 90% of wetlands faced pollution and degradation in the past three years, he called for immediate action to preserve the crucial ecosystems and environment.
Chief Conservator of Forest, Supongnukshi, highlighted the advantages of preserving wetlands and expressed concerns on the prevailing situation. Emphasizing the numerous benefits citizens derive from the reservoir, he called for responsible resource utilization. Supongnukshi also expressed concern on the declining fish population in Doyang and issues like saltation, asserting that collaborative efforts with departments like NEPCO was essential for conservation.
However, he said that the pivotal role rests with the village people and called for judicious resource usage and increased plantation.
Speaking on the theme of the program “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing,” RFO Wokha Lansothung Lotha provided a comprehensive overview of the significant contributions wetlands to the environment. Expressing concern about declining fish populations in Doyang, he commended Tsungiki and Philimi village councils for their resolution to protect the river by prohibiting harmful activities like explosive and chemical fishing, use of generator batteries, using multiple hooks for fishing and using drag nets.
He encouraged all the 20 villages along the Doyang Reservoir Wetland to adopt similar resolutions.
The programme was chaired by IFS, DFO Wokha & Doyang Suman W M Sivachar, Wetland Mitra Pledge by Eco Warriors, Short speech by L.Y Khuman NEEPCO and vote of thanks by ACF Elithung Odyuo.