Deepor Beel, located in Assam, is one of the most important freshwater lakes in India and a vital ecosystem with rich biodiversity. It is a Ramsar site, a Bird Sanctuary, and a critical component of the Brahmaputra floodplain. However, increasing human activities, pollution, and encroachments threaten its ecological balance.

Geographical Overview of Deepor Beel

Location and Formation

• State: Assam
• District: Kamrup (near Guwahati)
• Latitude & Longitude: 26°08′N 91°39′E
• Type: Permanent freshwater lake and a floodplain wetland of the Brahmaputra River
• Size: Approximately 40 sq. km during monsoon and 10 sq. km in dry seasons

Formation and Hydrology

• Formed as an oxbow lake from the Brahmaputra River.
• Receives water from Khanajan, Basistha, and Kalmoni Rivers.
• Serves as a natural drainage system for Guwahati city.

 Climate and Seasonal Variations

• Monsoon (June – September): Expands due to heavy rainfall.
• Winter (November – February): Shrinks, attracting migratory birds.
• Summer (March – May): Moderate water levels with high biodiversity.

Ecological Significance of Deepor Beel

Biodiversity Hotspot

• Recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International.
• Home to over 200 bird species, including endangered ones.
• Hosts 50+ species of fish, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals.

Flora and Fauna

Bird Species (Migratory & Resident)

Aquatic Life & Flora

• Fish: Rohu, Catla, Magur, Pabda, etc.
• Flora: Water hyacinth, water lilies, marshy grasslands.

Role in Climate Regulation and Livelihood

• Acts as a carbon sink, helping in climate change mitigation.
• Supports local fishing communities and agriculture.
• Prevents urban flooding by absorbing excess water.

Deepor Beel as a Ramsar Site & Bird Sanctuary

Ramsar Site Designation

• Declared a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2002.
• Recognized for its role in biodiversity conservation and hydrological balance.

Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary

• Declared as Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary in 1989 under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
• Covers 4.14 sq. km of the Beel’s core area.

Significance in Wetland Conservation

• Protected under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017.
• Plays a key role in India’s commitment to the Ramsar Convention.

Threats to Deepor Beel

Pollution and Urbanization

• Garbage dumping: The Borahgaon landfill site releases toxic leachate into the Beel.
• Industrial waste: Contaminants from factories and hospitals degrade water quality.
• Sewage discharge: Guwahati’s untreated sewage pollutes the lake.

Encroachment and Land Use Change

• Unplanned urban expansion has led to shrinking of the wetland area.
• Illegal construction, deforestation, and agricultural expansion.

Loss of Biodiversity

• Overfishing: Reduces fish population and disrupts the ecosystem.
• Declining migratory birds: Due to habitat destruction and pollution.
• Invasive species: Water hyacinth reduces oxygen levels, harming aquatic life.

Railway Line and Transport Pressure

• The broad-gauge railway track (Kamakhya-New Bongaigaon) runs through Deepor Beel, causing:
• Noise pollution, disturbing birds and wildlife.
• Animal deaths, including elephants crossing the tracks.

Conservation Efforts & Government Initiatives

National and State Government Actions

• Declared an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) in 2021 to restrict harmful activities.
• Assam Wetlands Authority formed for sustainable wetland management.
• Installation of floating wetlands to clean the water using aquatic plants.

Community and NGO Participation

• Local NGOs like Aaranyak work on awareness and conservation projects.
• Community-led ecotourism initiatives help in sustainable livelihood.

Legal Protection and Court Directives

• Gauhati High Court ordered a ban on waste dumping at Borahgaon site.
• Strict action against encroachment and illegal fishing.