Mizoram’s Pala wetland receives Ramsar recognition

The wetland is situated about 6 km from the nearest village called Phura, and falls under the Phura forest range of the Mara autonomous district council region.

In a significant step toward protecting India’s wetlands, Mizoram’s Pala has received Ramsar recognition as a wetland of international importance along with four other wetlands across the country.

Pala wetland is located in the Siaha district. The wetland is situated about 6 km from the nearest village called Phura, and falls under the Phura forest range of the Mara autonomous district council region. Spread across 1850 hectares, Pala is the largest natural wetland in the state of Mizoram.

Although classified as a Wetland Reserve by the national authorities, the site is threatened by the construction of roads and railroads, hunting, and illegal logging.

Pala wetland plays a crucial role in maintaining the hydrological regime of the area by being the perennial source of water for rivers and streamlets, on which seven villages are dependent for accruing their livelihoods.

Pala wetland is intrinsically linked to the lives of the local communities. The local Mara inhabitants revere Pala as it is deeply linked with their history.

Along with the cultural significance, the wetland is also an important source of natural resources for the local communities.

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