Numbers
1,500
Total Area (In Hector)
12,000
Land Usage
Ecological Information
Important Species
Fish: carps, catfish, indigenous fish species
Birds: herons, egrets, kingfishers, seasonal migratory birds
Amphibians: frogs and toads in marshy wetlands
Aquatic plants: Aponogeton, Utricularia, Drosera and wetland grasses
Wetlands support rich grass and macrophyte diversity
Ecosystem Services
Flood control & water storage
Groundwater recharge and aquifer stabilization
Fisheries and food production
Soil fertility enhancement
Carbon sequestration and ecological balance
Seasonal Hydrology
Influenced by rivers: Ajay, Mayurakshi, Kopai, Bakreswar, Dwarka
Monsoon: Wetlands expand due to rainfall and river overflow
Dry season: Significant shrinkage and fragmentation
Presence of seasonal beels, marshes, and tanks
Many wetlands are rain-fed and semi-permanent
Socio Economic Importance
Supports agriculture (paddy fields) and irrigation
Provides fisheries and livelihood support
Supplies water for domestic and livestock use
Supports rural economy and food security
Wetlands act as resource base for local communities
Wetland Converted
Encroachment and agricultural expansion
Siltation and drying of wetlands
Over-extraction of water resources
Pollution from fertilizers and domestic waste
Infrastructure development and land-use change
Local studies show wetland degradation due to human interference
Name of Wetlands
Information
Bakreswar Wetlands
Bakreswar wetlands are associated with the Bakreswar River and nearby geothermal activity. These wetlands include marshes, ponds, and water bodies influenced by seasonal rainfall and river flow. They support aquatic biodiversity, including fish, amphibians, and wetland vegetation. The area is also known for its hot springs, adding unique ecological characteristics. These wetlands play a role in groundwater recharge, irrigation, and local climate regulation. However, increasing tourism, industrial activities, and water extraction pose challenges to their ecological balance and sustainability.
Kopai River Wetlands
Kopai River wetlands are small floodplain wetlands formed along the Kopai River near Santiniketan. These wetlands are seasonal and depend heavily on monsoon rainfall. They support fish, amphibians, birds, and aquatic plants, contributing to local biodiversity. The wetlands help in groundwater recharge, soil moisture retention, and flood regulation. They are also important for nearby agricultural activities and local livelihoods. However, urban expansion, reduced water flow, and land-use changes are affecting their ecological health, requiring conservation and sustainable management.
Dwarka River Wetlands
Dwarka River wetlands are floodplain wetlands formed by seasonal overflow of the Dwarka River. These wetlands expand during monsoon and shrink during dry periods. They support agriculture by providing irrigation water and improving soil fertility through sediment deposition. The wetlands also sustain fish populations, aquatic plants, and birdlife. They play a key role in flood mitigation and groundwater recharge. However, threats such as encroachment, siltation, and excessive water extraction are impacting their ecological balance and long-term sustainability.
Ballavpur Jheel
Ballavpur Jheel is a well-known freshwater wetland near Santiniketan, also recognized as a deer park and biodiversity hotspot. It supports diverse bird species, fish, and aquatic vegetation, making it ecologically significant. The wetland plays a role in water storage, groundwater recharge, and local climate moderation. It is also an important eco-tourism site, attracting visitors and researchers. However, human disturbance, tourism pressure, and changes in hydrology can affect its ecological health, highlighting the need for conservation and sustainable management.
Amar Kutir Wetland Ponds
Amar Kutir wetland ponds consist of a cluster of small water bodies supporting local communities and the handicraft sector. These ponds are mainly rain-fed and play an important role in water storage, groundwater recharge, and maintaining local biodiversity. They support fish, aquatic plants, and birds. The ponds also contribute to livelihood activities such as small-scale fisheries and water use. However, pressures from tourism, waste disposal, and land-use changes can impact their ecological condition, requiring sustainable management practices.
Nanoor Temple Tanks
Nanoor temple tanks are traditional water bodies associated with religious and cultural practices. These tanks serve as important sources of water for ritual use, domestic needs, and groundwater recharge. They support aquatic plants, fish, and small fauna, contributing to local biodiversity. The tanks also play a role in maintaining microclimate and water availability in the area. However, neglect, pollution, and siltation are affecting their condition. Conservation of these culturally significant wetlands is essential for preserving both ecological and heritage values.