PALASBARI, Oct 16: Deepor Beel, a freshwater lake and wetland located about 10-18 km southwest of Guwahati, is facing a growing threat from water pollution, with deteriorating water quality reportedly leading to the death of numerous fish, raising concerns over its fragile ecosystem.
According to environmental activist Pramod Kalita, polluted water and various forms of waste generated in Guwahati are continuously flowing into the Deepor Beel through the Pamohi river. The discharge of pollutants has raised concerns over the degradation of the wetland’s ecosystem and the potential impact on its aquatic biodiversity.
The recurring incidents of fish deaths have further heightened concerns over the deteriorating condition of the wetland, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.
The situation has underscored the need for immediate intervention by the concerned authorities to prevent the inflow of untreated wastewater and waste into the wetland. Environmental experts and conservationists have also stressed the importance of water quality testing and a scientific investigation to ascertain the exact causes of the fish deaths.
Effective pollution control measures and sustained monitoring are essential to protect the wetland’s fragile ecosystem and preserve its rich biodiversity.
The conservation of Deepor Beel, a vital natural asset of Guwahati, requires coordinated action by the authorities and public participation.
Earlier, in January the National Green Tribunal (NGT) took serious cognisance of environmental degradation at Deepor Beel.
The matter is being heard suo motu by the NGT’s Eastern Zone Bench based on a news report in a local English daily on April 22 last year.
The bench, comprising chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member Ishwar Singh, took note of violations at the wetland by the Assam Pollution Control Board (APCB).