Young Conservationists take a plunge! A Wetland Odyssey with school students

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Dayadra Mandal from Wetlands International South Asia interacting with students

On January 24, 2024, students from classes VIII, IX, and X of DPS RK Puram embarked on a captivating journey to Hauz Khas Jheel, an urban wetland, as part of an exposure visit. The exposure visit provided a hands-on, immersive learning experience for the students of DPS RK Puram. The session was organised by Wetlands International South Asia and commissioned by India Water Partnership. It aimed to deepen the students’ understanding of wetland conservation and management, exploring their functions, benefits, and threats associated with an urban wetland..

The session was organised by Wetlands International South Asia and commissioned by India Water Partnership

A team of six from Wetlands International South Asia organised the open-sky session. The session was moderated by Ms Dayadra Mandal (Junior Technical Officer – Water Management) and Ms Diana Datta (Programme Associate – IMWBES). The students were divided into two groups, Mr Harsh Ganapathi (Senior Technical Officer – Ecohydrology) leading one group. He briefly introduced Hauz Khas Lake, delving into its historical significance. Mr Saadan Hussain (Junior Technical Officer – Climate Change), Mr Anil Fartiyal (Junior Technical Officer – Biodiversity), and Ms Nikita Tiwari (Junior Technical Officer – Knowledge Development) guided students through the serene surroundings, offering insights into ecosystem services and wetland biodiversity, showcasing unique water birds like Spot Bill Ducks, Common Pochards and many more.

The exposure visit provided a hands-on, immersive learning experience for the students of DPS RK Puram.

The students gained valuable insights about the wetland’s history, its revival story, the hydrology of the wetland, and the diverse biodiversity it supports. The visit highlighted the crucial role of urban wetlands, such as accommodating treated sewage water and providing habitat for various species in South Delhi.

Students gained valuable knowledge about Wetlands through the session

Dr Veena Khanduri, Executive Secretary-cum-Country Coordinator of India Water Partnership, underscored the importance of regular wetland monitoring, particularly through the involvement of schools and youth organisations, providing crucial support to the field mission.