Ecological investigations of Shahwadi Wetland

Abstract

The wetlands form important repositories of aquatic biodiversity. The diverse ecoclimatic regimes extant in the country resulted in a variety of wetland systems ranging from high altitude cold desert wetlands to hot and humid wetlands in coastal zones with its diverse flora and fauna. There are many important lakes and wetlands in Ahmedabad including Kankaria lake and Vastrapur Lake. The Nalsarovar wetland and Thol lake in the outskirts of Ahmedabad city are very important spots for migratory birds coming from different parts of the world and hence, attracts large number of tourists. However, many small and big wetlands are also present in and around the city which has not received due attention and hence, have suffered badly in the increased age of industrialization and urbanization. One such wetland is Shahwadi wetland which is situated in the heavily industrialized Narol area of Ahmedabad city. This study was undertaken to understand the ecological richness and importance of this region and highlight its degrading condition. It was found that this wetland harbors a good number of migratory birds and local birds, but is in highly degrading condition due to the negligence of local people residing in the periphery and the industries running nearby. Hence, it is imperative that appropriate conservation measures be taken for its successful conservation and rejuvenation.