Wetlands Conservation
Project Statement
Wetlands represent a distinctive and highly productive ecosystem, acknowledged for their value under the Wetland (Conservation and Management) Rules of 2010. The Wetland Atlas, created by ISRO in collaboration with states, instructs the preparation of a 'brief document' inventory for wetlands. Despite these regulations, the Maharashtra government neglects to comply with the rules, as it fails to prepare the mandated inventory and establish the required wetland authority.
Project Intervention
Vanashakti has filed complaints with various government departments to address the issue of illegal reclamation. The widespread reclamation of wetlands has compelled Vanashakti to seek legal intervention by taking the matters to court.
Project Outcome
1. The campaign receives media coverage.
2) Hon`ble High court orders a ban on reclamation of wetlands in the state of Maharashtra.
3) The Hon`ble High Court of Bombay sets up a "Wetlands Grievance Redressal Committee" to stop destruction of wetlands. Vanashakti is made a member of the committee.
4). A circular is issued by the government stating, 'No construction or reclamation of wetlands.' A Wetlands Authority is subsequently constituted with the mandate to protect wetlands.
5) The State government is instructed not to grant permissions for construction on wetlands.
6) Contempt proceedings are initiated against those who violate the High Court's order that prohibits the reclamation of wetlands.
VANASHAKTI petitions the Hon`ble Supreme Court of India to intervene for protection of wetlands of India.
