Ecological components in urban environment important

State Wetland Authority is all set to notify the ‘priority wetlands’, bringing in a series of measures for better conservation. After the notification, these wetlands will become protected water bodies and intensive conservation measures will be taken to maintain and improve them.

The Coimbatore-based Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural history which was entrusted with the selection and study of these wetlands has been allotted Rs10 lakh for the purpose. In Coimbatore four lakes – Sulur, Singanallur, Sengulam and Sundakkamuthur have been chosen to be declared as priority wetlands.

Environmentalists said that it was very important to notify the wetlands to protect them. “Ecological components in an urban environment are very important. Such laws help activists to promote conservation activities. These policies are important as it will act as a deterrent for violators,” said Joseph Reginald of the Centre for Urban Biodiversity Conservation.