Surajpur Wetland | 04 Feb 2025

Why in News? 

The Greater Noida Authority has developed a project to safeguard and preserve the Surajpur wetland. 

 Key Points 

  • Threat from Polluted Wastewater: 
    • The wetland faces a serious threat due to the indiscriminate discharge of highly polluted wastewater into its channels, endangering its ecosystem. 
  • Need for Technical Assistance: 
    • According to the authority, research institutes, non-government organizations (NGOs), and environmental experts can provide technical support to protect and restore the wetland. 
  • Ecological Significance: 
    • Located in the heart of the industrial city of Greater Noida, the Surajpur wetland serves as a vital wildlife habitat, making its conservation crucial. 
  • Geographic Spread and Features: 
    • The sanctuary spans 325 hectares, including a 60-hectare natural lake situated along the Dadri-Surajpur-Chhalera (DSC) road, approximately 20 km from Noida. 
  • Haven for Migratory Birds: 
    • During the winter season, the wetland attracts various species of migratory birds, enhancing its ecological and environmental value. 

 Surajpur Wetland 

 

  • Location and Administrative Jurisdiction: 
    • The wetland is located near Surajpur Village in Dadri Tehsil of Gautam Budh Nagar district. 
    • It falls under the jurisdiction of the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority, Uttar Pradesh. 
  • Urban Wetland in the Yamuna Basin: 
    • The wetland serves as an excellent example of an urban wetland within the Yamuna River basin. 
  • Ecological Importance and Green Cover: 
    • It acts as a green lung for Greater Noida, covering a catchment area of 308 hectares, with 60 hectares dedicated to the waterbody. 
  • Recognition as an Important Bird Area (IBA): 
    • BirdLife International has classified the wetland as an Important Bird Area (IBA) due to its significance in bird conservation. 
  • Breeding and Wintering Habitat for Waterfowl: 
    • The wetland provides a breeding ground for waterfowl such as Spot-billed Duck, Lesser-whistling Duck, Cotton Pygmy Goose, and Comb Duck. 
    • It also supports wintering waterfowl, including Red-crested Pochard, Ferruginous Pochard, Bar-headed Goose, Greylag Goose, Common Teal, Northern Shoveler, and Gadwall. 
  • Diverse Wildlife Presence: 
    • In addition to a rich bird population, the wetland sustains six mammal species, including Nilgai, Indian Grey Mongoose, Indian Hare, Golden Jackal, and Five-striped Squirrel. 
  • Environmental Threats: 
    • The wetland faces significant threats due to the indiscriminate discharge of highly polluted wastewater into its channels, posing risks to its ecosystem.