Numbers
1849
Total Area (In Hector)
12000
Land Usage
Ecological Information
Important Species
Fish: carps, catfish, small indigenous species
Birds: egrets, herons, kingfishers, migratory ducks
Amphibians: frogs and toads
Reptiles: turtles and water snakes
Aquatic plants: lotus, water hyacinth, submerged macrophytes
Ecosystem Services
Water storage (critical in drought-prone region)
Irrigation support for agriculture
Groundwater recharge
Fisheries and rural livelihoods
Microclimate regulation in lateritic landscape
Seasonal Hydrology
Monsoon: Rapid filling of tanks and reservoirs
Dry season: Severe shrinkage due to high runoff and evaporation
Dominated by:
Artificial tanks (bandhs)
Reservoirs and small dams
Strong dependence on rainfall (semi-arid conditions)
Socio Economic Importance
Essential for irrigation in drought-prone agriculture
Supports fisheries and local livelihoods
Provides drinking water and livestock use
Supports rural economy and food security
Traditional tanks are integral to village water systems
Wetland Converted
Water scarcity and drought stress (major issue in district)
Siltation and drying of water bodies
Encroachment and land-use change
Over-extraction of water for irrigation
Name of Wetlands
Information
Mukutmanipur Reservoir
Mukutmanipur Dam Reservoir, located at the confluence of the Kangsabati and Kumari rivers, is one of the largest reservoirs in West Bengal. It serves as a major irrigation source for Bankura and surrounding districts, supporting agriculture in this drought-prone region. The reservoir also sustains fisheries, aquatic vegetation, and birdlife, contributing to local biodiversity. It plays a key role in water storage, flood control, and groundwater recharge. Additionally, it is a popular tourist destination. However, siltation, fluctuating water levels, and increasing human activities pose challenges to its ecological balance.
Kangsabati Reservoir
Kangsabati Reservoir is a major water storage structure developed for irrigation and flood control in the region. It supports extensive agricultural activities by ensuring water availability during dry periods. The reservoir sustains fish populations and aquatic biodiversity, providing livelihood opportunities through fisheries. It also contributes to groundwater recharge and local climate regulation. Surrounding landscapes benefit from improved soil moisture and agricultural productivity. However, issues such as sedimentation, irregular rainfall, and overdependence on reservoir water affect its long-term sustainability.
Dwarakeswar floodplain wetlands
Dwarakeswar floodplain wetlands are seasonal wetlands formed along the Dwarakeswar River due to monsoon flooding. These wetlands expand during the rainy season and gradually shrink during dry months, creating a dynamic ecosystem. They support fish, amphibians, birds, and aquatic vegetation, contributing to biodiversity. The wetlands play a crucial role in flood mitigation, groundwater recharge, and soil fertility enhancement through sediment deposition. Local communities depend on them for irrigation, fishing, and agriculture. However, siltation, water extraction, and land-use changes are affecting their ecological health.
Shilabati River wetlands
Shilabati River wetlands are seasonal riverine wetlands influenced by the flow of the Shilabati River. These wetlands are highly dependent on monsoon rainfall and exhibit significant seasonal variation in water levels. They support aquatic biodiversity, including fish, birds, and plant species, and play an important role in maintaining ecological balance. The wetlands contribute to groundwater recharge, flood control, and agricultural productivity. Local communities rely on them for irrigation, fishing, and domestic needs. However, challenges such as reduced water flow, siltation, and human encroachment threaten their sustainability.