By Karmrath News Desk
Aligarh, UP: Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced on April 22, 2026, that the Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary located in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, has been designated as a Ramsar Site. This means it has been recognized as a wetland of international importance. With this, the total number of Ramsar Sites in India has reached 99, while the number in Uttar Pradesh has increased to 12.
The minister said this would benefit local livelihoods, biodiversity, water security, and the climate. He described it as a major step for India.
About Shekha Jheel
Shekha Jheel is a 25-hectare freshwater lake that remains filled with water throughout the year. It was formed in 1852 during the construction of the Upper Ganga Canal. The canal divided the lake into two parts.
It is not a very old natural lake, but rather an ecosystem that gradually developed after the canal was built.
The lake lies on the Central Asian Flyway, a route used by migratory birds. More than 166 species of birds visit the lake during winters. These include the bar-headed goose, painted stork, and several species of ducks.
The area is home not only to birds, but also to animals such as blackbuck and nilgai. Among the prominent trees found here are अर्जुन and jamun.
Threats Facing the Lake
Receiving Ramsar status is considered an honour, but it does not mean that the condition of the lake is good.
The lake faces several kinds of threats. In 1991, mounds of mud were created without proper planning, which increased the problem of silt accumulation. Land distribution schemes reduced forest cover. The construction of a nearby road increased the risk of poaching.
The cultivation of water chestnuts in the lake reduced feeding spaces for birds.
The biggest threat is a plant called water hyacinth, which is spreading rapidly. This is deteriorating water quality and reducing oxygen levels. In addition, other plants such as lantana and parthenium are also spreading.
All these factors make it clear that the lake needs not just recognition, but proper conservation and management.
What is the Ramsar Convention?
The Ramsar Convention is an international agreement that began in 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar. Its objective is the protection and wise use of wetlands.
Countries that join the convention commit to maintaining the ecological character of these sites. This does not change land ownership, but it gives these places international recognition.
India has been a part of the convention since 1982, and the number of Ramsar Sites in the country has increased rapidly in recent years.
Rising Numbers in Uttar Pradesh
With the addition of Shekha Jheel, Uttar Pradesh now has 12 Ramsar Sites. The state has a large number of rivers, floodplains, and water sources, which is why it also has many wetlands.
The lake is small and located close to an urban area. This indicates that even small water bodies can be important if they support strong biodiversity.
It will now depend on how the government and local administration use this recognition.
The minister also appealed to people to visit the site, which could help promote tourism.
What Next?
India’s 100th Ramsar Site may be announced soon, and the government is treating it as a major milestone.
But the real question is whether this recognition will lead to improvements on the ground. There are thousands of wetlands in the country that are still not protected.
For now, Aligarh’s Shekha Jheel has found a place on the international map. It hosts 166 species of birds, but also faces major problems such as the spread of water hyacinth. This designation is both an honour and a warning that work is now needed to protect the site.