Numbers
47
Total Area (In Hector)
8000
Land Usage
Ecological Information
Important Species
Birds: migratory species like gadwall, northern pintail, Eurasian wigeon, lesser whistling duck
Fish: rich diversity (~59 species recorded in Saheb Bandh Wetland)
Amphibians: frogs and toads
Aquatic plants: macrophytes (~36 species recorded)
Occasional presence of wetland-dependent mammals
Ecosystem Services
Water storage in drought-prone plateau region
Irrigation support (critical in rain-shadow areas)
Groundwater recharge (limited but vital)
Fisheries and livelihood support
Microclimate regulation in dry landscapes
Seasonal Hydrology
Rivers: Kangsabati, Kumari, Dwarakeswar, Subarnarekha, Damodar
Monsoon: Wetlands fill rapidly
Dry season: Severe shrinkage due to high runoff (~50% water loss)
Presence of:
Small dams & reservoirs (Murguma, Pardi, etc.)
Artificial tanks and bandh systems
Strong dependence on rainfall rather than perennial flow
Socio Economic Importance
Rivers: Kangsabati, Kumari, Dwarakeswar, Subarnarekha, Damodar
Monsoon: Wetlands fill rapidly
Dry season: Severe shrinkage due to high runoff (~50% water loss)
Presence of:
Small dams & reservoirs (Murguma, Pardi, etc.)
Artificial tanks and bandh systems
Strong dependence on rainfall rather than perennial flow
Wetland Converted
Rapid degradation due to pollution and eutrophication (observed in Saheb Bandh)
Encroachment and urban pressure
Siltation and drying
Climate variability and water scarcity
Name of Wetlands
Information
Murguma Reservoir
Murguma Reservoir is a scenic water body located in the Ajodhya Hills region of Purulia. It is primarily used for irrigation and water storage in this drought-prone district. Surrounded by forested hills, the reservoir supports aquatic biodiversity including fish and waterbirds. It plays an important role in groundwater recharge and microclimate regulation. The site has also gained popularity as an eco-tourism destination. However, seasonal water fluctuations, sedimentation, and increasing tourism pressure pose challenges to its ecological sustainability.
Pardi Dam
Pardi Dam Wetland is an important irrigation reservoir serving agricultural areas of Purulia. It stores monsoon water and releases it during dry seasons, supporting crop cultivation in water-scarce conditions. The wetland sustains fish populations and aquatic vegetation, contributing to local biodiversity. It also helps in groundwater recharge and soil moisture maintenance. Local communities depend on it for irrigation, fisheries, and domestic use. However, siltation, irregular rainfall, and overuse of water resources can affect its long-term sustainability.
Futiyary Reservoir
Futiyary Reservoir is a man-made water body developed for irrigation and water storage in Purulia district. It plays a vital role in supporting agriculture in the dry plateau region by ensuring water availability during lean periods. The reservoir supports fisheries and aquatic biodiversity, including fish and birds. It also contributes to groundwater recharge and helps maintain ecological balance. Local communities rely on it for irrigation, fishing, and livestock use. However, issues such as sedimentation, water scarcity, and climate variability pose challenges.
Khoyrabera Dam
Khoyrabera Dam is a picturesque reservoir located near the Ajodhya Hills, known for both its ecological and tourism value. It serves as an important water source for irrigation and supports fisheries in the region. The reservoir is surrounded by forested landscapes, providing habitat for birds and other wildlife. It plays a role in water storage, groundwater recharge, and local climate regulation. Increasing tourism and human activities, along with sedimentation and seasonal water fluctuations, pose challenges to its ecological health and sustainability.
Kangsabati floodplain wetlands
Kangsabati floodplain wetlands are seasonal wetlands formed along the Kangsabati River due to monsoon flooding and river dynamics. These wetlands expand during the rainy season and gradually shrink in the dry months, supporting a dynamic ecological system. They provide habitat for fish, amphibians, birds, and aquatic vegetation, contributing to regional biodiversity. The wetlands play an important role in flood mitigation, groundwater recharge, and soil fertility enhancement through sediment deposition. Local communities depend on them for irrigation, fisheries, and livestock use. However, siltation, reduced river flow, and agricultural encroachment threaten their sustainability.