Numbers
2,500
Total Area (In Hector)
10,000
Land Usage
Ecological Information
Important Species
Birds: Lesser whistling duck, lapwing, storks, kingfishers, moorhen
Fish: carp species, catfish, small indigenous fish
Amphibians: frogs and toads
Aquatic plants: water hyacinth, algae, submerged vegetation
Some wetlands host 70–100+ bird species in urban-industrial pockets
Ecosystem Services
Urban flood control & drainage regulation
Water storage in mining pits and reservoirs
Groundwater recharge (limited but significant locally)
Fisheries and local livelihood support
Microclimate regulation in industrial zones
Seasonal Hydrology
Influenced by rivers: Damodar, Ajay, Barakar
Monsoon: Water accumulation in low-lying and mined areas
Dry season: Many wetlands shrink or become stagnant
Presence of:
Artificial wetlands (mining pits, reservoirs)
Canal-fed and rain-fed ponds
Hydrology highly modified due to industrial and mining activities
Socio Economic Importance
Supports fisheries in ponds and reservoirs
Provides water for industrial and domestic use
Important for urban ecology (Durgapur–Asansol belt)
Supports informal livelihoods (fishing, small-scale aquaculture)
Enhances urban biodiversity and recreational spaces
Wetland Converted
Industrial expansion and mining activities
Land filling and urbanization (Asansol, Durgapur)
Pollution (industrial discharge, fly ash, wastewater)
Siltation and habitat degradation
Loss of natural wetlands; rise of artificial/modified wetlands
Name of Wetlands
Information
Maithon Reservoir
Maithon Reservoir, located on the Barakar River, is a major water body serving both ecological and economic functions. It was created for flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation. The reservoir supports fisheries, aquatic biodiversity, and birdlife. It also plays a role in groundwater recharge and regional water supply. The area is popular for tourism and recreation. However, issues such as siltation, pollution, and pressure from human activities can impact its ecological health, requiring sustainable management and conservation efforts.
Durgapur Barrage Wetlands
Durgapur Barrage wetlands are associated with the Damodar River and the barrage system, forming an important water management structure. These wetlands support irrigation, fisheries, and water supply for surrounding areas. They also provide habitat for fish, birds, and aquatic plants. The wetlands play a key role in regulating river flow, flood control, and groundwater recharge. They are important for both ecological balance and economic activities. However, pollution from industrial discharge and urban waste poses a threat to their ecological condition.
Kanksa–Panagarh Wetlands
Kanksa–Panagarh wetlands consist of seasonal and semi-permanent water bodies formed in low-lying areas influenced by rainfall and nearby river systems. These wetlands support agriculture by providing irrigation water and improving soil moisture. They also sustain fish, amphibians, and birdlife, contributing to biodiversity. The wetlands play a role in flood regulation and groundwater recharge. Local communities depend on them for farming and fishing. However, increasing industrial expansion, land-use change, and pollution are affecting their ecological health and long-term sustainability.
Raniganj Coalfield Water Bodies
Raniganj coalfield water bodies are artificial wetlands formed in abandoned mining pits and subsidence zones. Over time, these water bodies have developed ecological value, supporting fish, aquatic plants, and bird species. They act as water reservoirs, helping in local groundwater recharge and microclimate regulation in an industrial landscape. Some are used for fisheries and domestic purposes by nearby communities. However, contamination from mining residues, industrial pollution, and lack of management pose significant threats, making restoration and monitoring essential for their sustainable use.