Foreword

Wetlands are important surface water resources which facilitate harvesting and storage of rainwater through their catchment areas for replenishment of the ground water. Propagation of wildlife and fisheries is also one of the important designated-best-use of wetlands besides drinking, bathing, irrigation, domestic and industrial purposes. The wetlands, existing in wildlife habitats demand water quality suitable for highly productive and rich bio-diversity of fauna and flora. Many wetland areas have been considered as wildlife sanctuaries. Several such wetlands   within   the   urban city limits are gradually  being

diminished  or   transformed into marshes and shallow depressions due to increasing anthropogenic influences and extensive urbanization. Bio-monitoring of wetlands in such wild life habitats has become an important exercise in the context of protection of rare and endangered species.

The present studies have been undertaken to assess ecological sustenance of important wetlands existing in wildlife habitats of Kashmir valley. Jammu & Kashmir State Pollution Control Board has provided the information presented in the document. The efforts made by Dr. (Mrs.) Pratima Akolkar and Sh. Sajad Ali Bhat of J & K State Pollution Control Board to undertake the study and preparation of report are appreciated.


(V. Rajagopalan)
Chairman, CPCB

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