Understanding the City Biodiversity Index (CBI)

• The City Biodiversity Index, also known as the Singapore Index, is a tool for self-assessment designed to monitor the progress in conservation and development of biodiversity within a city.
• The Index was developed by the Secretariat of the CBD with assistance from the National Parks Board of Singapore and experts from different countries.
• The CBI comprises 23 biodiversity indicators including ongoing conservation initiatives, support from local government, and measures for biodiversity enhancement.
• Hyderabad had the distinction of being the first Indian city to create a CBI in 2012, coinciding with it being chosen as the host for the eleventh Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) , or COP11.
• Although Kolkata was the second city to create a CBI, Hyderabad is the only city to have updated it after a decade, demonstrating significant improvements.

Hyderabad's Score on the City Biodiversity Index

• Hyderabad's biodiversity score has seen a notable increase, jumping 21 points from 36 out of 92 in 2012 to 57 points in 2021.
• The city's score includes 27 out of 40 points in the native biodiversity category, 23 out of 36 in governance and management of diversity, and 7 out of 16 in the ecosystem services provided by biodiversity.

Exploring Hyderabad’s Biodiversity

• The report highlights that Hyderabad is home to 1305 species of plants, which include 577 native and 728 introduced species.
• The city also boasts of 30 species of Odonata or dragonflies and damselflies, 141 species of butterflies, 42 species of spiders, 60 species of fish, 16 amphibian species, 41 reptile species, 315 bird species, and 58 mammalian species.
• Hyderabad is also known for its 1350 water bodies covering an area of 2000 hectares and important rock formations spanning an area of 1,600 hectares.
• Two protected parks—KBR National Park and Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park—and the campuses of the University of Hyderabad, Osmania University, and ICRISAT play host to a wide range of species.

Factors Behind the Improvement in Hyderabad’s Biodiversity

• The report attributes the improvement in Hyderabad's biodiversity to various initiatives including Haritha Haaram, an afforestation programme, conservation of lakes, and enhancement of urban lung spaces.
• These initiatives have contributed to enhancing the city’s biodiversity through the preservation of native species, promotion of afforestation, and reduction of pollution.

Why is this Significant?

• The improvement in Hyderabad’s biodiversity is a noteworthy achievement, demonstrating that well-planned efforts can effectively protect and enhance biodiversity in urban areas.
• The CBI report offers valuable insights into the city’s biodiversity and the factors that have contributed to its improvement. As Hyderabad continues to grow and develop, it is crucial to maintain a focus on biodiversity conservation and management.
• The five-year action plan directed by Rama Rao will help ensure that the city’s biodiversity continues to thrive, positioning Hyderabad as a leader in urban biodiversity conservation in India.

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