Assam Government Launches Project to Revitalize 129 Wetlands

The Assam government is working on rejuvenating 129 wetlands (beels) across 3,800 hectares to help reduce floods and boost fish production. These beels play a crucial role in flood control, groundwater recharge, and fishery resources but have faced challenges such as siltation and low fish stock.

Out of 190 initially identified, 129 beels have been selected through the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Screening Matrix and geo-mapped by the Assam State Application Centre (ASSAC). The project, valued at Rs 796.88 crore (80% ADB-funded), will focus on dredging, desilting, and constructing water retention structures to improve water flow and fish auto-stocking.

A feasibility study and draft project report have already been submitted, with the final report expected by November 2024.