Section Article

SOCIO-ECOLOGICAL WETLAND PRESERVATION IN A WATER-SCARCE CITY
Author(s): Dibyendu Jha

Abstract
Wetlands play an irreplaceable socio-ecological role in maintaining hydrological balance ecological productivity biodiversity conservation and community resilience particularly in rapidly urbanising and water-scarce cities. Despite their proven contribution to groundwater recharge micro-climatic regulation pollution buffering flood absorption and livelihood support most wetlands across developing urban regions face severe degradation due to land-use change encroachment unregulated waste disposal industrial discharge and diminishing public awareness. This study critically examines wetland ecosystems in the context of water scarcity exploring how their degradation directly intensifies urban water crises while undermining ecological stability. Through a multidisciplinary lens combining urban ecology environmental sociology hydrology and sustainability science the study investigates the socio-ecological value of wetlands for water-stressed cities highlights their role as nature-based solutions and identifies the socio-political challenges that inhibit their long-term protection. Using theoretical analysis policy review and qualitative interpretations of research evidence the study emphasises that wetland restoration is not merely an environmental obligation but a vital socio-economic necessity that connects water security community wellbeing climate resilience and sustainable urban futures. The paper calls for integrated governance community participation and science-based conservation to ensure that wetland ecosystems continue functioning as regenerative assets in increasingly water-scarce landscapes.