Numbers
2783
Total Area (In Hector)
19312
Land Usage
Ecological Information
Important Species
Fish: Indian major carps, catfish, small indigenous fish
Birds: herons, egrets, kingfishers, migratory ducks
Reptiles: snakes, turtles
Amphibians: frogs and toads
Aquatic plants: lotus, water hyacinth, Trapa natans
Ecosystem Services
Flood control & drainage regulation (important in Damodar basin)
Groundwater recharge
Fisheries and aquaculture
Irrigation for agriculture (paddy-dominated region)
Water purification and nutrient cycling
Seasonal Hydrology
Dominated by rivers: Damodar, Ajay, Bhagirathi, Banka
Monsoon: Floodplain expansion and waterlogging
Dry season: Shrinkage; wetlands used for irrigation
Socio Economic Importance
Dominated by rivers: Damodar, Ajay, Bhagirathi, Banka
Monsoon: Floodplain expansion and waterlogging
Dry season: Shrinkage; wetlands used for irrigation
Wetland Converted
Agricultural expansion and land filling
Urbanization (Bardhaman town, Kalna region)
Industrial pollution (Durgapur-Asansol belt influence nearby)
Siltation and weed infestation
Canal modification affecting natural hydrology
Name of Wetlands
Information
Chupi Char Wetland
Chupi Char Wetland is a well-known floodplain wetland located along the Bhagirathi River near Kalna. It is recognized as an important habitat for migratory birds, especially during winter, attracting birdwatchers and researchers. The wetland supports diverse fish species, aquatic plants, and avifauna, contributing to rich biodiversity. It plays a crucial role in flood control, groundwater recharge, and nutrient cycling. Local communities depend on it for fishing and agriculture. However, increasing tourism pressure, pollution, and human disturbance pose challenges to its ecological balance and long-term conservation.
Kalna Floodplain Wetlands
Kalna floodplain wetlands consist of a network of seasonal water bodies formed by the Bhagirathi River’s dynamic flow. These wetlands expand during the monsoon and shrink in the dry season, supporting natural hydrological processes. They provide habitat for fish, birds, and aquatic vegetation, enhancing biodiversity. The wetlands are vital for irrigation, groundwater recharge, and flood regulation. Local communities rely on them for agriculture, fisheries, and domestic use. However, encroachment, land-use changes, and pollution are gradually affecting their ecological health and sustainability.
Damodar Canal Wetlands
Damodar canal wetlands are man-made water bodies linked to the Damodar Valley irrigation system. These wetlands play a key role in water distribution, irrigation, and fisheries in the region. They support aquatic biodiversity, including fish and plant species, and contribute to groundwater recharge. The wetlands also help regulate water flow and reduce flood risk. Local communities depend heavily on them for agriculture and livelihoods. However, issues such as siltation, water pollution, and excessive use are impacting their ecological condition and long-term sustainability.
Ajay Floodplain Wetlands
Ajay floodplain wetlands are seasonal wetlands formed along the Ajay River due to monsoon flooding and river dynamics. These wetlands support agriculture by providing irrigation water and improving soil fertility through sediment deposition. They also sustain fish populations, birds, and aquatic vegetation, contributing to biodiversity. The wetlands play an important role in flood mitigation and groundwater recharge. Local communities rely on them for fishing, farming, and domestic needs. However, threats such as encroachment, reduced water flow, and pollution are affecting their ecological balance and sustainability.