Guwahati: The Assam government has initiated a large-scale project to rejuvenate 129 beels (wetlands) across 3,800 hectares, aiming to mitigate floods and boost fish production. Beels play a crucial role in hydrological regulation, including flood control, groundwater recharge, and erosion prevention, making them vital resources for both the environment and fisheries in Assam.
However, these wetlands have faced deterioration, leading to challenges such as low water levels and reduced fish production due to siltation in marginal areas and poor natural fish replenishment. To address these issues, the project will focus on key areas, including dredging, desilting, and the construction of water-retaining structures to improve water storage and fish breeding environments.
Initially, 190 beels were identified by District Fisheries Development Officers, and 129 beels were selected for the project using the Asian Development Bank's (ADB) Screening Matrix. The Assam State Application Centre (ASSAC) has geo-mapped these beels, with 22 prioritized for immediate action. The contract agreements for these 22 beels are expected to be signed by February 2025.
With a project cost of ₹796.88 crore, 80% of the funding will come from the ADB, while the remaining 20% will be provided by the state government. The final detailed project report is expected by November 2024, with engineering designs already underway for the prioritized beels.
This project aims to enhance Assam's fish production while significantly reducing flood risks, contributing to a healthier aquatic ecosystem and more sustainable fisheries.
FIRST Business Portal addressing the potential of business capability of North East Region.
