Numbers
7538
Total Area (In Hector)
45000
Land Usage
Ecological Information
Important Species
Rich fish diversity (carps, catfish, small indigenous species)
Birds: migratory waterfowl, storks, herons, kingfishers
Amphibians and reptiles in beels and floodplain wetlands
Aquatic vegetation: water hyacinth, reeds, submerged macrophytes
Wetlands support high plankton diversity, indicating productivity
Ecosystem Services
Flood control: Absorb excess monsoon water in floodplain areas
Fisheries: Major inland fish production and breeding grounds
Agriculture support: Irrigation and fertile alluvial soil
Water purification: Natural filtration of pollutants
Groundwater recharge and biodiversity conservation
Seasonal Hydrology
Dominated by rivers like Torsa, Kaljani, Dharla, Raidak
Monsoon flooding (June–September) expands wetlands
Dry season shrinkage and water level decline
Strong river–wetland connectivity drives ecological processes
Socio Economic Importance
Supports fishing communities and rural livelihoods
Essential for paddy cultivation and irrigation
Provides water for livestock and domestic use
Wetlands contribute to local economy and food security
Cultural importance in rural communities
Wetland Converted
Encroachment for agriculture and settlement
Pollution from domestic and agricultural sources
Siltation and weed infestation (water hyacinth)
Flooding and riverbank erosion
Climate variability impacting wetland dynamics
Name of Wetlands
Information
Rasik Beel
Rasik Beel is the most prominent wetland in Cooch Behar and a designated bird sanctuary. It supports a rich diversity of migratory and resident birds, fish, and aquatic vegetation. The wetland plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by supporting fisheries, groundwater recharge, and nutrient cycling. It is also an important eco-tourism site, attracting visitors during winter bird migration. Local communities depend on it for fishing and livelihood activities. However, threats such as siltation, invasive species, and human disturbance pose challenges to its long-term sustainability.
Dharla River Wetlands
The Dharla River wetlands are dynamic floodplain ecosystems influenced by seasonal flooding and transboundary river flow. These wetlands expand during the monsoon, depositing nutrient-rich sediments that support agriculture and fisheries. They provide habitat for fish, amphibians, and water birds, contributing to local biodiversity. The wetlands also act as natural flood buffers, reducing the impact of floods in surrounding areas. However, they face threats from erosion, shifting river channels, and increasing human encroachment. Sustainable management is essential to balance ecological functions with the livelihood needs of local communities.
Baniadaha Beel
Baniadaha Beel is a significant floodplain wetland that plays an important role in supporting fisheries and agriculture in the region. The wetland expands during the monsoon and shrinks in the dry season, maintaining a natural hydrological cycle. It supports a variety of fish species, aquatic plants, and birds. Local communities depend on it for fishing, irrigation, and water supply. The beel also helps in groundwater recharge and sediment retention. Increasing pressure from land conversion, overfishing, and pollution poses risks to its ecological health and sustainability.
Sutunga River Oxbow Wetlands
The Sutunga River oxbow wetlands are formed by the meandering and shifting course of the river, creating crescent-shaped water bodies. These wetlands are ecologically important as breeding grounds for fish and habitats for birds and amphibians. They help in floodwater retention and groundwater recharge, playing a key role in local hydrology. The wetlands also support agriculture by maintaining soil fertility. However, they are vulnerable to siltation, drying, and human encroachment. Protecting these wetlands is important for sustaining biodiversity and ecological balance in the region.
Chhatimari Beel
Chhatimari Beel is a productive freshwater wetland supporting fisheries and local livelihoods. It is primarily rain-fed and expands during the monsoon season, providing habitat for fish, birds, and aquatic plants. The beel plays a role in water storage, groundwater recharge, and maintaining ecological balance. It is also important for irrigation and domestic water use in nearby villages. However, threats such as weed infestation, pollution, and encroachment are affecting its ecological health. Sustainable management practices are needed to ensure its long-term productivity and conservation.
Dangar Ayee Beel
Dangar Ayee Beel is a community-dependent wetland widely used for fishing, irrigation, and livestock needs. It is a seasonal wetland that fills during the monsoon and gradually recedes in the dry months. The beel supports local biodiversity, including fish, amphibians, and aquatic plants. It plays an important role in maintaining soil moisture and supporting nearby agricultural activities. However, unregulated use, encroachment, and siltation threaten its sustainability. Conservation efforts focusing on community participation are essential to preserve this important local resource.