Centre notifies wetland rules

NEW DELHI: Recognising wetlands as sensitive ecosystems with high biodiversity values, the Centre on Thursday notified rules for their conservation and management which restricts harmful activities such as dumping of untreated waste, industrialisation and construction near them.

The aim of bringing the wetlands rules is to ensure their better conservation and prevent their degradation considering that over one-third of India’s wetlands have already been wiped out or badly damaged. Calling the move as a positive step, environment minister Jairam Ramesh said, "This is the first time that legally enforceable Rules are being notified for such eco-sensitive areas."