Numbers
6,000
Total Area (In Hector)
9,000
Land Usage
Ecological Information
Important Species
Fish: carps, catfish, indigenous fish species
Birds: storks, herons, egrets, migratory waterfowl
Amphibians and reptiles in marshy wetlands
Aquatic plants: water hyacinth, lotus, submerged vegetation
Wetlands support rich bird diversity
Ecosystem Services
Flood regulation: Controls overflow of Bhagirathi–Ganga system
Groundwater recharge & water storage
Fisheries: Major livelihood support
Agricultural productivity enhancement
Water purification and nutrient cycling
Seasonal Hydrology
Dominated by rivers: Bhagirathi, Ganga (Padma), Jalangi, Bhairab
Monsoon: Large-scale flooding expands wetlands
Dry season: Shrinkage and fragmentation
Formation of oxbow lakes, beels, and floodplain wetlands
Wetland extent has declined significantly over time
Socio Economic Importance
Supports fisheries and agriculture-based livelihoods
Provides irrigation and water for domestic use
Supports informal economy (fish markets, aquatic crops)
Many rural households depend directly on wetlands
Important for eco-tourism
Wetland Converted
Rapid shrinkage (2.1% annual loss rate)
Encroachment and agricultural expansion
Siltation and invasive species (water hyacinth)
Pollution from domestic and agricultural sources
Infrastructure development and land-use change
Name of Wetlands
Information
Motijheel Wetland
Motijheel Wetland is a historic oxbow lake located near Murshidabad town, formed by the shifting course of the Bhagirathi River. It is culturally significant and surrounded by heritage sites, making it an important tourist attraction. Ecologically, the wetland supports fish, aquatic plants, and bird species. It plays a role in groundwater recharge and local climate regulation. However, urban pressure, pollution, and encroachment have affected its ecological health. Restoration and conservation efforts are essential to preserve both its ecological value and historical importance.
Ahiron Beel
Ahiron Beel is one of the major wetlands in Murshidabad and is known for its bird diversity. It serves as a habitat for migratory and resident birds, along with fish and aquatic vegetation. The wetland plays an important role in fisheries, irrigation, and groundwater recharge. It is also used by local communities for livelihood activities such as fishing and water use. However, siltation, pollution, and encroachment are posing serious threats. Conservation initiatives are needed to maintain its ecological balance and biodiversity.
Patan Beel
Patan Beel is a biodiverse wetland known for supporting a wide range of bird species, making it ecologically significant. It provides habitat for fish, amphibians, and aquatic plants, contributing to local biodiversity. The wetland also plays a role in flood control, groundwater recharge, and nutrient cycling. Local communities depend on it for fisheries and agriculture. However, pressures from land-use change, pollution, and overexploitation are affecting its sustainability. Effective management strategies are required to conserve this important wetland ecosystem.
Chaltia Beel
Chaltia Beel is an urban wetland located near Berhampore town. It plays a vital role in drainage, flood control, and groundwater recharge in the urban landscape. The wetland supports fish, birds, and aquatic vegetation, contributing to biodiversity. It is also important for local livelihoods, particularly fisheries. However, rapid urbanization, waste dumping, and encroachment have significantly degraded its ecological condition. Conservation and restoration efforts are urgently needed to protect this wetland and maintain its ecological and hydrological functions.
Balagachhi Beel
Balagachhi Beel is a large floodplain wetland that supports agriculture and fisheries in Murshidabad district. It expands during the monsoon and provides water for irrigation during the dry season. The wetland sustains fish populations, aquatic plants, and birdlife, contributing to biodiversity. It also helps in groundwater recharge and soil fertility enhancement. Local communities depend heavily on it for livelihoods. However, challenges such as siltation, encroachment, and pollution are affecting its ecological health, requiring sustainable management practices.
Chhatiyani Beel
Chhatiyani Beel is a seasonal wetland formed by floodplain processes and river dynamics. It fills during the monsoon and gradually recedes in the dry season. The wetland supports fisheries, agriculture, and biodiversity, including fish, amphibians, and aquatic vegetation. It plays an important role in flood regulation, water storage, and groundwater recharge. Local communities use it for fishing, irrigation, and domestic needs. However, increasing pressure from agricultural expansion, pollution, and siltation threatens its sustainability, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.