Which of the following best describes the ecological function of ponds in urban environments as highlighted by environmental experts?

They act as natural storage tanks that facilitate groundwater recharge and flood moderation.

They contribute to the increase in surface runoff and reduction of soil moisture.

They are artificial structures designed solely for aesthetic enhancement of city landscapes.

They primarily serve as sites for urban waste disposal and sewage treatment.

Under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, what is a primary requirement for the effective protection of wetlands in India?

Preparation of a comprehensive inventory and monitoring of wetlands to prevent encroachment.

Transfer of all wetland management responsibilities exclusively to the central government.

Mandatory conversion of all wetlands into urban parks and recreational zones.

Complete prohibition of any human activity within a 50-kilometer radius of a wetland.

Daily

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29 August 2026

Conservation of water bodies in Darbhanga

The topic involves a significant judicial intervention regarding the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, and highlights the conflict between urban development and ecological preservation, which is a recurring theme in GS3 environmental conservation questions.

Notes

Darbhanga, Bihar, historically known as the 'city of ponds', had over 350 ponds in 1969; currently, fewer than 100 remain.
Rapid urbanization and encroachment for residential, commercial, and institutional construction are primary drivers of pond loss.
Loss of water bodies has resulted in severe groundwater depletion, forcing reliance on borewells and creating water scarcity during summer.
Ponds act as natural storage tanks, facilitating groundwater recharge and flood moderation; their destruction disrupts these ecological services.
The Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation (BUIDCO) initiated a ₹70.34-crore 'rejuvenation and beautification' project for Harahi, Dighi, and Gangasagar ponds.
The Talab Bachao Abhiyan (TBA) petitioned the Supreme Court, arguing that 'beautification' (e.g., laying pathways) alters the ecological character of wetlands.
The Supreme Court directed the state government to halt soil dumping and beautification activities in the identified ponds.
Legal arguments cite the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, and National Green Tribunal (NGT) directives regarding the protection of water bodies.
Judicial directives have mandated the creation of a comprehensive digital inventory of ponds and wetlands across Bihar to improve monitoring and conservation.

Questions

Discuss the ecological significance of urban water bodies in groundwater recharge and flood mitigation. How does the 'beautification' of wetlands often conflict with their natural conservation? 150 words

Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min

0 / 150 words 8:00
Examine the role of the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, in protecting urban water bodies. How can judicial intervention and digital mapping strengthen the governance of these critical ecosystems in India? 250 words

Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min

0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

Which of the following best describes the ecological function of ponds in urban environments as highlighted by environmental experts?

Under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, what is a primary requirement for the effective protection of wetlands in India?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

‘City of ponds’: Darbhanga residents wade into legal battle to save water bodies

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-08-29/conservation-of-water-bodies-in-darbhanga