Kolkata

Rabindra Sarovar is a major artificial lake in south Kolkata, serving as an important urban ecological and recreational space. Spread over a large area, it supports diverse flora and fauna, including migratory birds during winter. The lake helps regulate the local microclimate, reduces urban heat, and aids groundwater recharge. It is widely used for walking, sports, and cultural activities, making it a vital green-blue infrastructure. Despite its importance, issues like pollution, eutrophication, and human pressure pose ecological challenges, requiring continuous management and conservation efforts.

Captain Bherry is one of the well-known sewage-fed fishery ponds within the East Kolkata Wetlands system. It exemplifies the traditional “bheri” aquaculture practice, where wastewater is naturally treated and reused for fish cultivation. The pond supports significant fish production and provides livelihoods to local communities. It also contributes to nutrient recycling and biodiversity conservation. As part of the wetland ecosystem, it helps in flood buffering and ecological balance. However, pressures from urban expansion and pollution threaten its functioning, emphasizing the importance of protecting such traditional ecological systems.