PANAJI
The Goa State Wetland Authority (GSWA) has opted to utilise remote sensing and radar methodology for the management of lakes in notified wetlands within the State, as a trial initiative.
To facilitate this endeavour, the GSWA has enlisted the services of Geo Climate Risk Solutions Pvt Ltd, headquartered in Andhra Pradesh, who will conduct the initial study on smaller wetlands.
Presently, there are approximately 40 notified wetlands across the State.
During the recent GSWA technical committee meeting, the necessity for lake management in these designated wetlands was emphasised.
The firm provided a comprehensive presentation during the meeting, highlighting its heavy reliance on remote sensing data for analysing physical variables and water quality parameters. Additionally, in instances where cloud cover obscures the lakes, the radar system is employed to gather data.
The committee concluded that smaller notified wetlands could be subject to trial management initiatives, with a specific focus on identifying changes, particularly within the wetland buffer zones.
The GSWA has established Lake Management Committees to oversee the management and conservation efforts of the notified wetlands. These committees include local community members residing in the areas where the wetlands are designated.
Wetlands are recognised as lakes of critical importance due to their ecosystem services and biodiversity values for both local communities and society as a whole.
