Wetland of National Importance Vadhvana lake celebrate World Wetland Day

Best time of the year to visit the place

Today is World Wetland Day and Vadhvana is celebrating the day with various activities like students guide tour, quiz and poster competition, talk on wetland and cleanliness drive. The programme is organised by the Vadodara office of Deputy Forest Conservator under Wildlife department.

At one time Vadodara was consider as one of the district rich in forests and nature in the state. However after the formation of Chhotaudepur district most of the forests went there. However Vadodara district is still having Vadhvana lake famous for its migratory birds attraction. The lake gets recognition as the Wetland of National Importance in 2005.

Located at 10 kms from Dabhoi the place is water source for the nearby villages but most importantly popular for bird watching site. The place is home to various species of exotic birds comes every year in big numbers. Species like storks, terns, geese, ducks, ibis, flamingos and spoonbills are treat to watch there.

Built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III the lake is the second largest in Gujarat known as wetland and also Eco tourism campsite. The best time to visit the wetland is from October to March as that is the main migratory seasons for birds which migrate here from all over the world.

Spread at 10.38 square kilometer the Vadvana wetland gets the recognition of ‘Wetland of National Importance’ due to its importance and unmatched environmental value. The water of the lake is used for supply water to nearby 22 villages for irrigation on 17000 hectares area. The presence of birds at the lake also has its own importance as for the last 15 years or so there is no loss in the agriculture as the birds feed on the insects dangerous for crops and becomes saviours.

Wildlife department Vadodara Deputy Forest conservator Dr. D.F. Gadhvi said the department this year started studying in the area about the birds nature and favourable environment at Vadhvana lake. They are also trying to maintain the water level in this time of the year by taking the help of irrigation department.

Dr. Gadhvi said the lake is like a school of nature education and is of great importance to the upcoming generations. The forest department is making efforts to bring school students and children is big numbers to watch and learn the about nature sitting in its lap.

It is worth mentioning that Gujarat has 35.8% share of total wetland area in India and 6% in inland wetlands. The valuable treasure must be saved for the future generations.