How many Ramsar Sites are in Uttar Pradesh?

As of April 2026, Uttar Pradesh has 12 Ramsar Sites, making it one of the leading states in India for wetland conservation. These globally recognised wetlands, protected under the Ramsar Convention, include major sites like the Upper Ganga River and newly added sanctuaries such as Shekha Jheel and Patna Bird Sanctuary. Together, they support biodiversity, migratory birds, water security, and ecological balance across the region.

Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth, and their protection has become a global priority. To conserve these fragile habitats, the Ramsar Convention was established in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran. It provides international recognition to wetlands of ecological importance and promotes their sustainable use.

India joined this convention in 1982 and has steadily increased its number of protected wetlands. Among Indian states, Uttar Pradesh stands out as a major contributor due to its rich river systems, floodplains, and bird sanctuaries located across the fertile Indo-Gangetic plains.

How many Ramsar Sites are in Uttar Pradesh (2026)?

As of April 2026, Uttar Pradesh has 12 Ramsar Sites officially recognised under the Ramsar Convention.

This makes the state one of the leading regions in India for wetland conservation. These 12 sites together cover nearly 39,700 hectares, supporting biodiversity, water security, and livelihoods.

Newly Added Ramsar Sites in 2026

The year 2026 marked an important milestone with two new additions:

• Patna Bird Sanctuary (Etah district) – Designated in January 2026
• Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary (Aligarh district) – Designated on 19 January 2026 and recognised nationally in April 2026

These additions highlight the growing commitment toward wetland preservation in the state.

Complete List of Ramsar Sites in Uttar Pradesh

Here is the full updated list of all 12 Ramsar Sites:

1. Upper Ganga River (Brijghat to Narora stretch)
2. Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary (Shaheed Chandra Shekhar Azad Bird Sanctuary)
3. Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary
4. Saman Bird Sanctuary
5. Samaspur Bird Sanctuary
6. Sandi Bird Sanctuary
7. Sarsai Nawar Jheel
8. Sur Sarovar (Keetham Lake)
9. Haiderpur Wetland
10. Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary
11. Patna Bird Sanctuary (Etah)
12. Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary (Aligarh)

Key Facts About Ramsar Sites in Uttar Pradesh

• Largest Ramsar Site: Upper Ganga River (~26,590 hectares)
• First Ramsar Site: Upper Ganga River (designated in 2005)
• Smallest Ramsar Site: Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary (~40.3 hectares)
• Newest Site (2026): Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary
• Total Sites in India (2026): 99

The Upper Ganga stretch is particularly important as part of the Ganga River ecosystem, supporting endangered species such as the Ganges river dolphin and gharial.

Why These Wetlands Are Important

Biodiversity Hotspots

These wetlands support rare and migratory species along the Central Asian Flyway. Birds from Siberia and Central Asia visit these habitats every winter.

Water Security

Wetlands recharge groundwater and maintain water levels, which is crucial for agriculture and drinking water in densely populated regions.

Flood Control

They act like natural sponges, absorbing excess rainwater and reducing flood risks in nearby areas.

Livelihood Support

Local communities depend on wetlands for fishing, farming, and eco-tourism activities.

Threats to Ramsar Sites

Despite their global importance, these wetlands face serious challenges:

• Pollution from sewage and agricultural runoff
• Encroachment and land-use changes
• Invasive species like water hyacinth
• Rapid urbanisation and climate change

Conservation Efforts

To protect these ecosystems, several initiatives are in place:

• Wetland management by state authorities
• Community awareness programs
• Eco-restoration projects
• National schemes focused on Ramsar conservation

These efforts are helping improve ecological health and ensure long-term sustainability.

Final Insight

Uttar Pradesh now has 12 Ramsar Sites as of April 2026, marking a significant achievement in environmental conservation. From the vast Upper Ganga floodplain to the small yet vital Shekha Jheel, each site plays a critical role in preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance.

The steady increase in Ramsar designations shows that conservation and development can move forward together. With continued protection and awareness, these wetlands will remain lifelines for nature and people for generations to come.

FAQs

Q1. How many Ramsar Sites are in Uttar Pradesh in 2026?
Uttar Pradesh has 12 Ramsar Sites as of April 2026.

Q2. Which is the newest Ramsar Site in Uttar Pradesh?
Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary (Aligarh) is the newest Ramsar Site, added in April 2026.

Q3. Which is the largest Ramsar Site in Uttar Pradesh?
The Upper Ganga River (Brijghat to Narora stretch) is the largest Ramsar Site in the state.

Q4. Which is the smallest Ramsar Site in Uttar Pradesh?
Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary is the smallest Ramsar Site in UP.

Q5. Why are Ramsar Sites important?
They protect biodiversity, support migratory birds, improve water security, and help control floods.