Surha Tal in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, has become India’s 100th Ramsar site. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced it on 5 June 2026, World Environment Day. Locally, people also know the wetland as the Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary. Notably, it is Uttar Pradesh’s 13th Ramsar site.
About Surha Tal
Surha Tal is an oval oxbow lake on the left side of the Ganga. Specifically, it lies about 17 km north of Ballia town. The Ganga’s shifting course created it long ago. Moreover, the lake can spread over about 34 sq km in August and September. Seasonal streams feed it, and the Kathar Nala links it to the Ganga.
A Haven for Birds
Back in 1991, Uttar Pradesh declared the area a bird sanctuary. It honours freedom fighter and social reformer Jai Prakash Narayan. Every winter, the lake hosts many migratory birds. In addition, it supports resident wetland birds and local fishing communities.
What Is a Ramsar Site?
A Ramsar site is a wetland of international importance. Accordingly, countries list such sites under the Ramsar Convention. Nations signed this treaty at Ramsar, Iran, in 1971. Then, it came into force in 1975. India joined it on 1 February 1982. Interestingly, Chilika Lake and Keoladeo National Park became India’s first Ramsar sites in 1981.
India’s Ramsar Journey
Recently, India’s list has grown fast. Now, Tamil Nadu has the most Ramsar sites. Uttar Pradesh comes second with 13 sites. Thus, Surha Tal adds to the Gangetic plain’s growing share.
100th Ramsar Site: Key Facts for Revision
- Site: Surha Tal (Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary)
- District: Ballia, Uttar Pradesh
- Announced: 5 June 2026 (World Environment Day)
- Type: Oxbow lake in the Ganga floodplain
- Sanctuary since: 1991
- UP’s count: 13 Ramsar sites
Why the 100th Ramsar Site Matters for UPSC and UKPSC
Notably, Ramsar sites are a favourite environment topic in prelims. So, remember the district, the date and the wetland type. Also, revise India’s first Ramsar sites and the state-wise leaders. For official updates, also visit the Ramsar Convention website. Next, for a related story, read about Glaw Lake becoming India’s 101st Ramsar site.
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