Water Hyacinth Proposal Report

by Pratiksha Saikia
Date:25/06/2025
Introduction -
Deepor Beel, a freshwater lake and Ramsar site located on the southwestern edge of Guwahati, Assam, holds immense
ecological, economic and cultural significance. Once a thriving habitat for diverse flora and fauna, the wetland is now
under serious threat due to unchecked pollution, urban encroachment and poor waste management practices. The
situation has worsened drastically in recent years, especially for nearby areas like Pamohi village, where residents suffer
from foul odors, declining fish populations and deteriorating water quality.
Waste from nearby dumping grounds, untreated sewage, industrial runoff and invasive species like water hyacinth and
suckermouth catfish have severely affected the lake's ecosystem. Local livelihoods that depend on fishing and wetland-
based agriculture are at risk. This proposal aims to highlight the current environmental challenges which are being faced
by Deepor Beel, assess their impact on both biodiversity and communities and present sustainable interventions for
conservation and restoration of the wetland.

Background -
Deepor Beel is one of the most important wetlands in Assam, recognized as a Ramsar site and declared a Wildlife
Sanctuary in 1989 under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. It serves as a vital ecological zone, supporting migratory
birds, native fish species, aquatic vegetation and the livelihoods of local communities. However, over the last decade,
the condition of Deepor Beel has deteriorated significantly due to human-induced activities.
In a conversation with local residents, including school teacher Nripen Ingti, it was revealed that the most affected area
is Pamohi village. The dumping ground located nearby has become the primary source of pollution. Hazardous waste
including biomedical, household and industrial effluents from institutions like Kamakhya Station, Gauhati University
and Ayurvedic College, flows untreated into the lake especially during the rainy season.
Previously, organizations had taken initiatives to clean the wetland, but for the past 10 years, no substantial efforts have
been made. As a result, waste accumulation especially plastic and cartons have become a common sight in the lake. The
rampant growth of water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic weed, is further choking the ecosystem, reducing oxygen levels
and threatening native fish populations. With decreasing fish quality and quantity, daily incomes are falling, and
traditional practices are being lost. This background study underscores the urgent need for an intervention that not only
addresses the environmental threats but also supports the socio-economic resilience of the local population.

Rationale (why are we doing it) -

The need to conserve and restore Deepor Beel is urgent and critical, not only for ecological reasons but also for the well-
being of the local communities who depend on its natural resources for their livelihoods. Over the years, due to
unplanned urbanization, lack of waste management and limited government intervention, Deepor Beel has been
subjected to severe pollution, ecological imbalance and biodiversity loss.
The constant inflow of untreated sewage, industrial effluents and waste from nearby dumping grounds has severely
degraded the water quality. This has led to the overgrowth of invasive species like water hyacinth and suckermouth
catfish, which threaten the native flora and fauna of the wetland. As a result, the natural balance of the ecosystem is
being disrupted, fish production is declining and endangered species are at risk of extinction.
In addition to this, the socio-economic fabric of the communities around Deepor Beel is deteriorating. Fisherfolk are
struggling due to reduced catch and poor fish quality and the decline in native aquatic plants is affecting local traditions
and biodiversity.
Despite multiple research studies being conducted in the area, there has been a lack of practical and on-ground action
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toward environmental restoration. This proposal is therefore intended to bridge the gap between research and
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implementation. It advocates for sustainable measures that involve community participation, eco-restoration techniques
and policy-level engagement to protect the wetland and ensure long-term ecological and economic sustainability.

Significance (what will happen if we do it) -

This proposal holds significant importance in addressing the ecological, social and economic challenges currently faced
by Deepor Beel and its surrounding communities. As one of Assam’s few Ramsar sites and a designated Wildlife
Sanctuary, Deepor Beel plays a crucial role in maintaining regional biodiversity, supporting migratory birds, preserving
native aquatic life and acting as a natural flood buffer for Guwahati city.
However, due to pollution, encroachment and invasive species, the wetland is rapidly losing its ecological character.
This poses a major threat not only to the natural ecosystem but also to the livelihood of local residents who depend on
fishing, farming and wetland-based resources. The degradation of fish quality, spread of invasive species and reduction
in traditional crops and native flora directly impact food security and income generation.
The proposal is significant because it:
➢ Aims to restore ecological balance by controlling pollution and invasive species like water hyacinth.
➢ Supports the revival of traditional livelihoods through sustainable practices.
➢ Encourages community participation, environmental education and awareness.
➢ Offers a model for wetland conservation that can be replicated in other regions.
➢ Highlights the importance of integrating research with action and advocating for policy-level interventions.
By addressing both environmental and socio-economic dimensions, this proposal aspires to contribute to long-term
conservation and sustainable development goals, ensuring that Deepor Beel continues to thrive as a vital natural resource
and heritage site for future generations.

Objectives -
The primary aim of this proposal is to address the environmental degradation of Deepor Beel and promote sustainable
conservation strategies that benefit both the ecosystem and the dependent communities. The specific objectives are:
➢ To assess the current ecological condition of Deepor Beel, focusing on pollution levels, biodiversity loss and the
spread of invasive species such as water hyacinth.
➢ To identify the sources of pollution, including waste discharge from the dumping ground, untreated sewage and
industrial effluents from surrounding institutions and residential areas.
➢ To promote community engagement and participation in wetland conservation through awareness programs, local
stakeholder consultations and capacity-building workshops.
➢ To develop and implement eco-restoration strategies, including water hyacinth management, biodiversity protection
and solid waste removal.
➢ To support sustainable livelihood practices for local communities by encouraging traditional crop cultivation,
promoting native fish species and exploring alternative income-generating activities.
➢ To advocate for policy-level interventions and improved governance that prioritize the protection and long-term
sustainability of Deepor Beel as a Ramsar site and Wildlife Sanctuary.
➢ To document the best practices and lessons learned from the intervention, for use in future wetland conservation
projects across Assam.

Detailed study (area proposed) -

While Pamohi village is significantly impacted by pollution from the dumping ground, the environmental degradation
of Deepor Beel extends to several other nearby areas that also require attention for a complete understanding and
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effective restoration. To gain a holistic understanding of the environmental degradation and its impact on biodiversity
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and communities, this proposal intends to include additional areas around Deepor Beel that are either ecologically
sensitive or economically dependent on the wetland ecosystem. These include:
❖ Boragaon: This is where Guwahati’s main dumping ground is located. Waste from this site directly affects
Deepor Beel, especially during the monsoon. Studying this area will help assess how solid waste contributes to
water pollution and the spread of water hyacinth. Boragaon is the site of the main municipal dumping ground
of Guwahati, and a significant contributor to the pollution of Deepor Beel.

o Waste from Boragaon flows directly into the Beel, especially during the rainy season, increasing toxicity
and contributing to the spread of water hyacinth and other invasive species.

o A study of this area will focus on solid waste management, the impact of leachate on water quality, and
the health risks to nearby communities.

❖ Azara and Tetelia: These are fast-developing areas near the Beel, where urban expansion is causing land
encroachment. These changes disturb natural habitats, affect bird migration routes, and lead to habitat loss.

o These are residential and semi-rural areas situated close to the Beel, where rapid urban expansion and
infrastructure development have led to encroachments into the wetland boundary.

o The study in these areas will examine the extent of encroachment, changes in land use, and the impact
on local bird habitats and fish breeding zones.

❖ Garbhanga Forest Edge: This forest acts as a natural buffer for Deepor Beel. Encroachments and deforestation
here are affecting wildlife movement, especially elephants and birds. Studying this area can help plan for habitat
protection.

o The forest area surrounding Deepor Beel is vital for its ecological buffer function.

o Encroachment, deforestation here have disturbed the wildlife corridor, especially for elephants and
migratory birds.

o A study will be conducted to assess forest-wetland interactions and recommend protection measures.

❖ Mikirpara and Matia: These villages rely heavily on the Beel for fishing and farming. The decline in fish
quality and crop cultivation has affected their livelihoods. These areas will be studied to understand the socio-
economic impact and how the communities can be supported.

o These low-lying villages are historically dependent on the wetland for fishing, farming and plant
collection.
o Due to pollution and invasive aquatic weeds, traditional livelihoods are declining.
o Surveys will be done to understand livelihood loss, changes in fishing practices and community
perceptions toward wetland conservation.

The purpose of expanding the study area beyond Pamohi village is to gain a comprehensive understanding of
the diverse environmental challenges and socio-economic issues affecting the entire Deepor Beel ecosystem.
While Pamohi is one of the worst-affected zones, limiting the study to a single area would provide only a partial
view of the complex problems facing the wetland.
By including surrounding areas such as Boragaon, Azara, Tetelia, Garbhanga Forest Periphery, Mikirpara and
Matia, the proposal aims to:
➢ Understand the Full Scope of Pollution Sources -
Pollution in Deepor Beel is not limited to one location. Including Boragaon, where the main dumping ground
is located, helps assess the direct inflow of solid and liquid waste into the wetland. It also identifies secondary
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pollution routes from residential and institutional areas.

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➢ Assess the Impact of Urban Encroachment and Land Use Change -
Urbanization in areas like Azara and Tetelia is rapidly changing the landscape around the Beel. Studying these
regions will help evaluate the impact of encroachments, real estate developments and infrastructure projects
on the wetland's boundaries and ecological balance.
➢ Document Habitat Disruption and Biodiversity Threats -
The Garbhanga Reserve Forest acts as a buffer zone and wildlife corridor. Studying the forest periphery will
provide insights into how deforestation and human activities are affecting wildlife, especially migratory birds
and elephants that depend on Deepor Beel.
➢ Capture Socio-economic Variations Across Communities -
Including villages like Mikirpara and Matia allows the study to document how pollution and ecological
degradation are affecting different livelihood patterns like fishing, farming and plant harvesting. This helps in
planning tailored livelihood restoration strategies for each area.
➢ Ensure Inclusive and Holistic Conservation Planning -
Conservation efforts are more effective when they involve multiple stakeholders and cover the entire
ecological zone. Expanding the study area ensures no critical region is left out, and the final action plan is
inclusive and ecologically sound.

By including these areas, the proposal aims to create a broader and more inclusive approach to Deepor Beel
conservation, one that addresses not just pollution, but also biodiversity, habitat protection and community
wellbeing.

Beneficiaries targeted -
This proposal aims to benefit a wide range of stakeholders who are directly or indirectly connected to the Deepor
Beel ecosystem. The targeted beneficiaries include:
➢ Local Fishing Communities
These are among the most affected groups due to declining fish populations and poor water quality. The
proposal seeks to restore fish habitats, improve fish quality and support sustainable fishing practices to revive
their livelihoods.
➢ Farmers and Cultivators
Farmers engaged in traditional wetland agriculture are facing challenges due to invasive weeds and water
pollution. The project aims to promote eco-friendly farming practices and ensure access to clean water
sources for cultivation.
➢ Women and Marginalized Groups
Many women are involved in fish processing, plant collection, and small-scale farming. The proposal
includes skill-building and alternative livelihood opportunities for women and socially marginalized groups
in the area.
➢ Students and Educational Institutions
Schools and colleges near Deepor Beel will benefit through awareness programs, educational visits and
participation in citizen science activities related to wetland conservation.

➢ Environmental Activists and local NGOs

Organisations working on biodiversity conservation, pollution control and sustainable development will be
supported and included as key partners in planning and implementation.

➢ Urban Residents of Guwahati

As Deepor Beel plays a vital role in groundwater recharge, flood mitigation and climate regulation, the
restoration of the wetland will also benefit urban dwellers by improving environmental quality and reducing
flood risks.

➢ Tourism and Eco-tourism Stakeholders

By improving the ecological health and visual appeal of Deepor Beel, the proposal will help create
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opportunities for bird watching, eco-tourism, nature-based tourism, benefiting local entrepreneurs and the
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regional economy
Outcome -

The successful implementation of this proposal is expected to bring about positive ecological, social and economic
outcomes in the Deepor Beel region. These outcomes will contribute to the long-term sustainability and preservation of
one of Assam’s most valuable wetlands.

➢ Ecological Restoration

• Reduction in pollution levels through waste management interventions and monitoring.

• Control and removal of invasive species such as water hyacinth.
• Improvement in water quality, aquatic biodiversity and fish populations.
• Revival of native flora.

➢ Community Empowerment and Livelihood Revival

• Enhanced income opportunities for local communities through sustainable fishing, farming and eco-friendly
livelihood options.
• Increased participation of women and marginalized groups in conservation related activities.
• Skill-building and capacity development for youth and local entrepreneurs.

➢ Strengthened Environmental Awareness

• Increased environmental consciousness among students, youth and residents through awareness drives and
educational campaigns.
• Involvement of schools and academic institutions in conservation activities.

➢ Policy Support and Governance

• Recommendations for improved wetland governance and waste management submitted to local authorities.
• Formation of community-led monitoring and conservation groups.
• Stronger collaboration between NGOs, government departments and local stakeholders.

➢ Enhanced Eco-Tourism Potential

• Restoration of natural beauty and biodiversity leading to increased potential for eco-tourism and bird watching
activities.
• Economic benefits for local vendors and tourism-based livelihoods.

In conclusion, the proposal aims to create a resilient and sustainable model for wetland conservation that can
serve as a replicable framework for other similar ecosystems across the region and country.

Project Implementation plan -

The implementation of the Deepor Beel conservation project will be carried out in a phased and participatory manner
over a defined time frame. The plan will ensure effective coordination between local stakeholders, environmental experts
and government bodies for sustainable impact.

PHASE DURATION ACTIVITIES

Phase 1: Baseline Survey & Month -Conduct field surveys
Community Mobilization (1–2) -Identify stakeholders
-Community meetings,
document traditional
knowledge
Phase 2: Ecological Month 3–6 -Remove water hyacinth and
Restoration invasive species
-Waste clean-up drives
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-Replant native species

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-Restore fish habitats

 Phase 3: Livelihood Support Month 4–8 -Train on eco-friendly
& Skill Development livelihoods
-Promote traditional farming
-Form women's SHGs
- Link to govt schemes
Phase 4: Awareness & Month 3–9 -School workshops & visits
Education Campaign -Citizen science activities
-Posters, plays, and clean-up
drives
Phase 5: Policy Advocacy & Month 6–10 -Prepare policy briefs
Monitoring -Form monitoring committee
- Government engagement
Phase 6: Evaluation & Month 11–12 -Assess project impact
Reporting -Final documentation
-Stakeholder workshop

The success of the Deepor Beel conservation project depends on how effectively it is implemented on the ground. This
proposal adopts a participatory, sustainable and collaborative approach to ensure long term impact and community
ownership.
➢ Participatory and Community-Led
• Local communities including fishermen, farmers, women and youth will be involved at every stage of the
project.
• Their traditional knowledge and daily experiences will guide practical solutions.
• Community based groups will be formed for tasks like water hyacinth removal, waste collection and wetland
monitoring to ensure active local participation and job creation.

➢ Environmentally Sustainable and Culturally Sensitive

• The project will prioritize eco-friendly practices, such as manual removal of invasive species and use of natural
farming methods.
• Restoration efforts will respect the cultural practices and traditional livelihoods of the local population,
especially farming and fishing communities.
• Reintroduction of native plant and fish species will help maintain ecological balance.

➢ Collaboration with Stakeholders

• The implementation will involve coordination between:
o Local government authorities (for policy enforcement and infrastructure support)
o Educational institutions (for research, awareness and citizen science)
o NGOs and environmental groups (for technical expertise and training)
o Community-based organizations and SHGs (for grassroots outreach)
• Regular stakeholder meetings will ensure transparency, joint planning and shared responsibilities.

➢ Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing

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• The project will invest in training programs to build local capacity in conservation practices, alternative
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livelihoods and eco-tourism.

 • Awareness drives in schools and villages will help build a sense of ownership and responsibility for Deepor
Beel’s health.

➢ Monitoring and Feedback-Driven

• Progress will be continuously monitored using both scientific tools like water quality testing and local feedback.
• The implementation strategy will remain flexible and adaptable based on what works best in the field.
This inclusive and ground up implementation approach ensures that the conservation of Deepor Beel is not just a short-
term project, but a sustainable, community owned movement for environmental restoration.

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