Raipur
The Kopra Reservoir in Bilaspur district is now Chhattisgarh’s first Ramsar site. The announcement has created a welcoming atmosphere across the state. This designation is conferred upon wetlands considered globally important for biodiversity, water conservation, and ecological significance.
The Minister for Forest and Climate Change, Kedar Kashyap, congratulated the people of the state on this achievement. He stated that the reservoir’s unique ecology, diversity of local and migratory birds, and rich aquatic ecosystem made it eligible for Ramsar recognition.
Minister Kashyap thanked the State Wetland Authority, environmentalists, Forest Department officials, researchers, and local communities. He noted that the collective hard work and commitment to conservation made this achievement possible.
The Minister said that this milestone, achieved under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, is a key step towards achieving the target of securing Ramsar status for 20 wetlands by 2030, which is part of the Chhattisgarh Anjor Vision 2047.
He added that the declaration of Kopra Reservoir as a Ramsar site will raise awareness about wetland conservation in the state and open new opportunities for eco-tourism. This will provide employment to local communities and foster sustainable development.
Minister Kedar Kashyap appealed to all citizens to take an active role in the protection and promotion of this important natural heritage. He emphasised that wetland conservation is a collective responsibility and a commitment to leave a strong natural legacy for future generations.
