Numbers
695
Total Area (In Hector)
30,297
Land Usage
Ecological Information
Important Species
Fish: Rohu, Catla, small indigenous fishes
Birds: Migratory ducks, herons, egrets
Amphibians and reptiles in floodplain wetlands
Aquatic plants: reeds, sedges, floating vegetatio
Ecosystem Services
Provisioning: Drinking water, irrigation, fisheries (limited),
Regulating: Landslide control, erosion prevention, microclimate regulation,
Supporting: Habitat for endemic Himalayan species
Cultural: Religious importance of rivers/streams
Seasonal Hydrology
Monsoon (June–Sept):
High discharge in rivers like Teesta River
Flash floods and sediment flow
Winter (Dec–Feb):
Reduced flow in streams and springs
Pre-monsoon:
Water scarcity in hill settlements
Springs dry up in some areas
Socio Economic Importance
Primary source of drinking water (springs/jhoras)
Supports tea gardens irrigation
Limited fisheries but important for local livelihood
Essential for tourism (scenic rivers, lakes)
Community dependence is very high compared to plains
Wetland Converted
Small wetlands and springs converted due to:
Urban expansion (Darjeeling, Kalimpong hills),
Road construction and hill cutting,
Drying of jhoras (natural springs) increasing
Name of Wetlands
Information
Chharial Beel
Chharial Beel is a floodplain wetland located in North 24 Parganas, supporting diverse aquatic life and rural livelihoods. It plays an important role in storing monsoon water, reducing flood risk, and maintaining local hydrology. The wetland supports fisheries and agriculture, providing income to nearby communities. It also serves as a habitat for birds and aquatic plants, contributing to biodiversity. Seasonal variation influences its water levels and productivity. Like many wetlands in the district, Chharial Beel faces threats from encroachment, pollution, and land conversion, highlighting the need for conservation and sustainable management.
Bortir Beel
Bortir Bill is a well-known wetland in North 24 Parganas, recognized for its role in community-based conservation and sustainable livelihood practices. It supports fisheries, agriculture, and bird habitats, making it an important biodiversity hotspot. The wetland also acts as a flood buffer during the monsoon and contributes to groundwater recharge. Local communities depend heavily on its resources for income and food security. However, pressures from land-use change and pollution pose threats to its sustainability. Bortir Bill is often cited as a successful example of balancing conservation with livelihood needs.
Bidyadhari River floodplain
The Bidyadhari River flows through the eastern parts of North 24 Parganas and is part of the lower Ganga delta system. It plays a crucial role in drainage, irrigation, and maintaining wetland hydrology. The river supports fisheries and provides water for surrounding agricultural areas. Historically significant, it has experienced reduced flow due to siltation and changes in river dynamics. The Bidyadhari also influences salinity levels in nearby wetlands. Despite degradation, it remains vital for ecological balance and local livelihoods, highlighting the need for conservation and improved water management practices.
Ichhamati River floodplain
The Ichhamati River is one of the most significant rivers in North 24 Parganas, forming part of the India–Bangladesh border. It supports fisheries, irrigation, and local livelihoods. The river is ecologically important for sustaining wetland biodiversity, including fish, birds, and aquatic vegetation. Seasonal flooding during monsoon enriches surrounding floodplains, while dry season flow reduces significantly. It also has cultural importance, especially during festivals in Taki. However, pollution, siltation, and reduced freshwater flow have affected its ecological health, requiring restoration efforts to maintain its environmental and socio-economic functions.