The preliminary survey, conducted after the declaration of the Kopra wetland as a Ramsar site, has found two coal washeries and nine coal depots functioning within a five-kilometre radius of the protected water body. The findings have been forwarded to the state government through the District Wetland Committee for further action.

The Kopra wetland, spread across nearly 210 hectares (2.10 square kilometres), received Ramsar recognition seven months ago, becoming the only internationally recognised wetland in Chhattisgarh. The designation brought renewed attention to conservation efforts and prompted authorities to assess environmental pressures in the surrounding landscape.

Following the recognition, the Forest Department carried out a primary survey of the wetland’s catchment area and nearby industrial activities. The report covers industrial operations in Kopra, Belmundi, Saida and Sambalpuri-Bahatrai, where coal handling and processing activities are currently being conducted.

Officials involved in the survey noted that many of these locations are situated on elevated terrain. During the monsoon, rainwater runoff from these areas naturally flows towards the wetland catchment zone, raising concerns about the possibility of coal dust, suspended particles and industrial residues reaching the water body.

Environmental observers have pointed out that wetlands are highly sensitive ecosystems and even gradual contamination can affect water quality, aquatic biodiversity and bird habitats over time.

The survey has also highlighted the presence of coal infrastructure in areas immediately surrounding the Ramsar site.

According to the report, several coal depots are operating along the road leading to the wetland. Three of these depots are reportedly located adjacent to the wetland boundary itself. One depot is situated on the right side of the approach road, while two others are located on the left side.

In addition, a large coal washery is functioning approximately 500 metres from the wetland. The facility handles coal loading, unloading and processing activities, all of which have attracted attention because of their proximity to the protected ecosystem.

The findings have prompted fresh discussions on balancing industrial development with environmental conservation in mineral-rich regions of the state.

Forest officials clarified that the current document is a preliminary assessment intended to identify activities around the Ramsar site. The report has been submitted to the District Wetland Committee, which has forwarded it to the state government for further review.

The next stage will involve a comprehensive survey by a joint team comprising experts from the state government and central agencies. The detailed assessment will be used to prepare a long-term master plan for the conservation and management of the Ramsar site.

Officials said future decisions regarding environmental safeguards, monitoring mechanisms and conservation measures will be based on the findings of this detailed study.

The Ramsar Convention identifies wetlands of international importance and encourages member countries to ensure their ecological character is maintained. As a result, any activity that may affect the health of such ecosystems often comes under increased regulatory scrutiny.

For residents and environmental groups, the survey represents the first official acknowledgment of industrial activity surrounding the Kopra wetland. They now await the findings of the proposed detailed assessment and any conservation measures that may follow.

With coal washeries and depots operating near the catchment zone, the future management of Chhattisgarh’s only Ramsar site is expected to become a key environmental issue in the months ahead.