Guwahati: In a landmark initiative, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the launch of the Sustainable Wetland and Integrated Fisheries Transformation (SWIFT) project, aimed at revitalizing 129 beels across the state.
With an investment of approximately Rs 800 crore, the ambitious project, in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), seeks to enhance fish production and improve water management, promoting sustainable resource conservation.
The SWIFT project is set to rejuvenate 4,000 hectares of beel fisheries, a critical component of Assam’s hydrological ecosystem.
These natural water bodies are essential for flood mitigation, groundwater recharge, and river flow regulation, and they serve as significant reservoirs of fishery resources.
“Beels are the backbone of Assam’s hydrological resources. This project will not only revive these essential ecosystems but also give a substantial boost to indigenous fish production,” Sarma stated. “We aim to enhance the water storage capacity of these beels and implement effective conservation and management of indigenous fish species.”
Key objectives of the SWIFT project include:
• Rejuvenation of 4,000 hectares of beel fisheries.
• Projected additional 1,200 kg of fish production per hectare annually.
• Improved water storage capacities to bolster flood management.
• Promotion of sustainable resource management and conservation of indigenous fish species.
The initiative is expected to significantly boost the local economy and ensure food security for communities that rely on these water bodies for their livelihoods.
By focusing on environmental sustainability and biodiversity preservation, the project aligns with Assam’s broader goals of sustainable development and conservation.
The SWIFT project marks a strategic move to revive and preserve Assam’s wetlands, ensuring they continue to play their vital role in the state’s ecosystem while supporting economic growth.
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