Guwahati – The Assam government has unveiled an ambitious plan to rejuvenate 129 beels (wetlands) across the state, covering an area of 3,800 hectares.
This comprehensive initiative aims to tackle the decline in fish production and reduce flood risks, both of which are critical to the region’s ecosystem.
Beels are vital components of Assam’s natural environment, offering essential services such as flood control, groundwater recharge, and erosion prevention.
However, many of these wetlands have suffered from significant challenges, including siltation, low water levels, and inadequate fish auto-stocking, which have adversely affected their health and productivity.
To address these pressing issues, the Assam government, in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), has identified 129 beels for restoration.
These wetlands have been geo-mapped, with 22 prioritized for immediate action based on their ecological importance.
The project, with a total budget of Rs 796.88 crore, will involve several key activities, including dredging and deepening river channels to facilitate improved water flow and fish migration.
Additional measures such as desilting, de-weeding, and the construction of water pools will be undertaken to enhance water retention and boost fish production.
A feasibility study and a draft detailed project report (DPR) have already been submitted by Electroveen Engineering Private Limited, with the final DPR expected to be completed by November 2024.
Once implemented, this project is projected to significantly enhance the ecological health of Assam’s beels, leading to increased fish production and bolstered flood resilience, thereby benefiting local communities and the state’s biodiversity.
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