Punjab reconstitutes panel on wetlands

CHANDIGARH: Punjab government has reconstituted the steering committee for conservation and management of wetlands in Punjab, aimed at promoting an environmentally harmonious plan for conservation and management of wetlands.
A spokesman of the government said that principal secretary, science and technology and environment, would be its vice-chairman.
Punjab is home to three internationally acclaimed wetlands -- Harike, Kanjli and Ropar -- and three others including the Keshopur wetland. Wetlands have a profound impact on the economy of villages surrounding it, he said.
The committee would look into promotion of inter-departmental and inter-sectoral coordination for integrated action on conservation and management of wetlands in Punjab, besides identifying problems in the proper maintenance of Harike, Kanjli, Ropar and Ranjit Sagar wetlands and suggest remedial measures, he said.
It would also evaluate plans and proposals of all government departments and also monitor the progress of implementation of management plans and regulate, screen and monitor development activities, which have a bearing on wetland ecosystems, he added.