CHITRAL, Feb 3, 2010: Like other parts of the country, the World Wetland Day was celebrated in Chitral with an aim to undertake actions to promote awareness about the significance and benefits of wetlands.

Observed on February 2 each year, the day marks the adoption of Convention on Wetlands in1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar where some 157 countries participated in the convention.

At the same time, this is the day to reiterate our commitment for the cause of wetlands by reflecting on our past activities and planning for the future in this regard.This year the theme is 'Wetlands, Climate Change and Biodiversity' and the slogan 'Caring for Wetlands: an Answer to Climate Change'.

Addressing a ceremony held in this regard, Hamid Ahmad, social organizer Pakistan Wetland Program, underscored the significance of the day saying that the topic is very relevant and timely as it links to two events of UNFCCC COP15 held in December 2009 on climate change, which brought together the world's leaders and the International Year of Biodiversity in 2010.

He said caring about climate change means caring about wetlands, which in turn means caring about biodiversity.The wetlands outweigh many ecosystems in terms of productivity, he said, adding, however, the natural integrity of wetlands has been continually reduced by unsustainable management practices and the impact of climate change.

He said if timely precautions are not taken, the habitat of rare species of flora and fauna and wetlands biodiversity would be in danger and the people's livelihoods may be trapped in the labyrinth of an ecological crisis.

He said in order to foster maintenance of the natural integrity of the wetlands Ministry of Environment through Pakistan Wetland Program has initiated a wetlands program that facilitate implementation of the Convention on Wetlands in Broghul Valley.--APP