Biswabrata Goswami
KRISHNAGAR, 17 FEB: Krishnagar Women’s College, in collaboration with Save Jalangi (West Bengal), hosted a pivotal International Seminar titled “Revitalizing Decaying Rivers and Wetlands: Unlocking Potential Resources for Sustainable Future” at the prestigious Bina Das memorial hall, today. The seminar aimed to confront the unprecedented challenges facing vital ecosystems such as rivers and wetlands, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions in the face of environmental degradation.
The seminar, which attracted renowned international and national environmentalists, scientists, policymakers, and scholars, provided a platform for in-depth discussions on critical issues pertaining to the degradation of rivers and wetlands. Participants explored various dimensions of the crisis, including sustainable practices, restoration techniques, community-driven initiatives, biodiversity conservation, water quality management, and the role of technology in environmental sustainability.
Key objectives of the seminar included identifying critical issues, unlocking potential resources, exploring technological solutions, fostering community engagement, integrating heritage and cultural insights, understanding socio-economic-political dynamics, and formulating policy recommendations to address the challenges.
Distinguished speakers shared their insights and experiences, offering comprehensive perspectives on the complex issues at hand. Dr. Kalyan Rudra, Chairman of the West Bengal Pollution Control Board and member of the Central Pollution Control Board, emphasized the importance of collective action and the pivotal roles of local communities and innovative technologies in achieving sustainable solutions.
Prof. Sanat Kumar Guchhait from the University of Burdwan highlighted the significance of cultural insights in environmental conservation, stressing the emotional connections and heritage value associated with ecosystems like rivers and wetlands.
Dr. Aznarul Islam, from the Department of Geography at Aliah University, emphasized the need for a holistic approach to sustainable development, underscoring the importance of considering socio-economic-political dynamics in policy formulation.
The seminar also featured perspectives from international figures such as Dr. Rajendra Singh, Waterman of India and recipient of prestigious awards including the Stockholm Water Prize and the Ramon Magsaysay Award. Dr. Singh emphasized the global importance of water resources and the need for collective action to address challenges faced by rivers and wetlands worldwide.
Dr. Paul Marchese from Queensborough Community College in the USA highlighted the pivotal role of technological advancements in ecosystem restoration and preservation, stressing the importance of international collaboration in finding innovative solutions.
Prof. Mallik Akram Hossain from Jagannath University-Dhaka underscored the global dimensions of the crisis and the importance of international cooperation and knowledge-sharing for the sustainable future of rivers and wetlands.
Dr. Snehal Donde, a Fulbright Scholar and member of the World Water Council, emphasized the fundamental role of engaging local communities and integrating their knowledge with international expertise in paving the way for a sustainable future.
Selected papers presented at the seminar were published in proceedings with ISBN, and awards were recommended for outstanding contributions. Panel discussions facilitated robust exchanges of ideas and insights, contributing to a deeper understanding of the challenges and potential solutions to revitalize decaying rivers and wetlands for a sustainable future.
The seminar concluded with a renewed commitment from participants to collaborate across borders and disciplines, recognizing the urgency of collective action in safeguarding these vital ecosystems for future generations.
Tags: #KrishnagarWomensCollege #SaveJalangi #River #Pollution
