LC Pokhara report: World Wetlands Day, 2024
Clean-up and Walkathon

Introduction and Background: 

World Wetlands Day, observed annually on February 2nd since 1997, emphasises the positive impact of wetlands on the environment. This occasion fosters a collective commitment to preserving these vital ecosystems that contribute significantly to sustaining life on Earth. The significance of wetlands is underscored by their role as habitats for diverse flora and fauna, flood protection, water quality enhancement, erosion control, and their natural and recreational value. Preserving wetlands is crucial to ensuring the continued existence of numerous species and maintaining the various benefits they offer to our planet. 

Phewa Lake in Pokhara is facing severe pollution due to untreated sewage from local hotels, restaurants, and residences. Despite fines and warnings, the release of wastewater into the lake persists, prompting concerns about the effectiveness of conservation efforts. Local organisations like Civil Society Pokhara and the Women’s and Mother’s Groups are actively involved in lake conservation, but stronger actions from authorities are urged to address the pollution issue. The study reveals concerning levels of microplastic in Phewa Lake’s surface water, emphasising the urgency of addressing pollution. Engaging students and youth in proactive measures becomes crucial to stimulate awareness and promote actions that can help overcome the persistent pollution issues in Phewa Lake. Collaborative efforts involving local organisations, authorities, and the community are essential for a sustainable and effective conservation strategy. 

IFSA Pokhara, a local committee of the International Forestry Students’ Association, stands as a dedicated group fostering environmental stewardship and sustainability. Aligned with a global vision, their initiatives range from educational campaigns to capacity-building, aiming to engage communities, students, and experts in the shared goal of conserving Nepal’s precious ecosystems. Their dynamic approach reflects a commitment to promoting appreciation for forests and contributing meaningfully to environmental conservation efforts. 

The hallmark of our activities revolved around a three-fold approach: an awareness campaign utilising face paint and slogan exposure, a clean-up campaign along the Hallanchowk area circle through Tal Barahi Temple, and a walkathon in Ward No. 18. The selected site for our endeavours is of particular significance, being part of the Ramsar site under the Lake Cluster of Valley, emphasising the importance of safeguarding these wetlands for their ecological value and contribution to biodiversity. We trust that our efforts contribute to a heightened sense of environmental awareness and a strengthened commitment to the sustainable management of our invaluable wetland ecosystems.

Acknowledgement: 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the Cleanup, Walkathon, and Awareness Campaign organised by IFSA Pokhara at Phewa Lakeside, a significant Ramsar site under the Lake Cluster of Valley. This initiative aimed at promoting environmental consciousness and preserving the ecological integrity of this vital area. 

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Institute of Forestry Pokhara campus, Pokhara Municipality Ward No. 6, Ward No. 18, and the Lake Conservation and Development Authority of Gandaki Province, Pokhara, and IFSA Asia Pacific Regional representatives for their unwavering commitment and promising financial support. Their collaboration played a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth execution of our event. 

Special thanks are due to Mr. Pabitra Thapa, the representative from Pokhara Municipality Ward No. 6, and the representative of Baidam Bikash Samuha, Ward No. 18, Metropolitan City Office, for their active involvement and support throughout the campaign. Their dedication to the cause significantly contributed to the overall success of the event. 

Event Details: 

IFSA Pokhara, an active green organisation of the Institute of Forestry (IOF) Pokhara, organised a grand event to celebrate World Wetland Day on the 2nd of February 2024. The event aimed to raise awareness about the significance of wetlands and promote their conservation. The activities included an early morning awareness campaign, a cleanup drive, and a walkathon, culminating in an inauguration program.

Activities: 

  • Face Painting and Departure (6:30 am-7:30 am): 

The day commenced with an awareness campaign through face painting at 6:30 am, actively involving 37 IOF Pokhara students, 7 volunteers from IOF Pokhara, and 7 board members of IFSA Pokhara. At 7:30 am, the participants departed from the IOF Pokhara campus via bus. 

  • Cleanup Campaign (7:45 am-9:00 am): 

Upon reaching HallanChowk, the team met Pabitra Thapa, representatives from Pokhara Municipality Ward No. 6 and Baidam Bikash Samuha, Ward No. 18. Wetland awareness slogans adorned the backs of the volunteers during the cleanup campaign, which extended from Hallanchowk, through Tal Barahi Temple, and back to Hallanchowk. Active participation from volunteers and Ward 6 members resulted in the collection and proper disposal of various waste materials, including cigarette butts and plastic packets. 

  • Second Cleanup Campaign and Walkathon (9:00 am-10:30 am): 

At 9:00 am, the team headed to the opposite side of Phewa Lake, under Ward No. 18, for another cleanup campaign and the walkathon. The cleanup continued until 9:30 am, followed by the walkathon, where participants walked individually. This picturesque location offered a perfect setting to emphasize the importance of wetland conservation. 

  • Inauguration Program and Prize distribution (10:30 am): 

The formal inauguration program began with Niruta Singh, an executive member of IFSA Pokhara, providing insights into wetland importance and conservation. Special guest Pabitra Thapa shared thoughts on the event, emphasising the role of communities in wetland preservation. A highlight was the award ceremony for the walkathon winners, where the first-place recipients received t-shirts, medals, and certificates, while runners-up were awarded water bottles, medals, and certificates. The event concluded with a speech from the President of IFSA Pokhara. 

Conclusion: 

In conclusion, the World Wetland Day event organised by IFSA Pokhara on February 2, 2024, was a resounding success, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility and community engagement. The early morning awareness campaign, marked by face painting and the active participation of 51 individual volunteers, an energetic tone for the day. 

The subsequent move to the other side of Phewa Lake, under Ward No. 18, showcased the commitment to thorough environmental stewardship. The cleanup efforts and the walkathon program there demonstrated the collective dedication of the participants toward the cause of wetland conservation. The formal inauguration program highlighted the significance of wetlands and their conservation, emphasizing Phewa as a crucial Ramsar site. Special guest Pabitra Thapa’s insights added depth to the event, and the recognition of walkathon winners underscored the celebration of individual and collective contributions. Overall, the World Wetland Day event left a lasting impact, promoting awareness and inspiring action for the preservation of these vital ecosystems.