Udaipur, a city covering an area of 37 square kilometers, has met all the necessary benchmarks according to state authorities to earn the prestigious distinction of being recognized as a "Wetland City." This coveted title is an exceedingly rare recognition that only a select few cities around the world have achieved. Notably, Udaipur faces stiff competition from Bhopal, as both cities vie for the honor of being designated as a Wetland City. Nestled within its borders, the city is enveloped by five significant lakes, including Fateh Sagar and Lake Pichola. These lakes not only grace the city's landscape but also serve as vital hubs for the conservation and protection of various fish species.

This accolade signifies the exceptional efforts and commitment these cities have made to protect and preserve their wetland ecosystems. It highlights their dedication to maintaining the delicate balance of nature within their urban landscapes and sets them apart as global leaders in wetland conservation and sustainable urban development.

The Ramsar Convention, officially titled the "Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, especially as Waterfowl Habitat," is a globally recognized treaty dedicated to the preservation and responsible management of Ramsar sites. This treaty, often referred to as the "Convention on Wetland," takes its name from the Iranian city of Ramsar, where it was initially signed in 1971. Its primary mission is the conservation and sustainable utilization of wetlands, emphasizing their importance as critical habitats for waterfowl and other wildlife.

In the year 2022, at the 14th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP14) to the Ramsar Convention, a noteworthy development took place. The convention officially acknowledged 25 cities worldwide as wetlands, including notable names such as Sackville in Canada, Ifrane in Morocco, and Cape Town in South Africa, among others. As of the present day, a total of 42 cities in 17 different countries proudly bear the distinction of being recognized as Wetland Cities, a testament to the growing global commitment to wetland conservation and sustainable urban development. 

Source: Times Of India