Wadi Wurayah – Designated Biosphere Reserve by UNESCOby Rohan Kapur | 12-08-2018 15:00 |
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    In the month of July-2018, Wadi Wurayah in Fujairah [Unityed Arab Emirates] has been designated a 'Biosphere Reserve' by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco). This is a great achievement for the UAE as after 11 long years this distinction has been awarded to this country. Previously Marawah has been awarded this status in the year 2007. As per Wikipedia, A biosphere reserve is an ecosystem with plants and animals of unusual scientific and natural interest. It is a label given by UNESCO to help protect the sites. The plan is to promote management, research and education in ecosystem conservation. This includes the 'sustainable use of natural resources'. Wadi Wurayah is Located in the emirate of Fujairah, the site consists of a water catchment area in an arid climate that is part of the Hajar mountain range. It hosts a rich fauna and flora endemic to the Arabian Peninsula and is one of the last Emirati places where traditional farming practices are still maintained. The wadi is home to 81 bird species, 20 mammal species, at least nine reptile and amphibian species and 467 invertebrates. Some of the rarest animals in the world roam freely at Wadi Wurayah, including the Blanford?s fox, Arabian leopards, mountain gazelles and caracals. The area?s luminous waterfalls, amazing rock formations and unusual wildlife make it a haven for geologists. The wadi?s pools, streams and waterfalls support a rich variety of wildlife that include the Omani owl and the urothemis thomasi dragonfly, which was so rare it had not been sighted since 1957 and was thought to be extinct. The movement of public in such areas is restricted so that the eco-system balance may be maintained. UAE has shown its undeterred commitment to protect & flourish its flora & fauna in a hostile weather touching over 55 degree Celsius in summer. It is a challenge to carry out such activities. The official link from UNESCO site is attached for a detailed reference Pic courtesy: The National UAE |
