A Guwahati-based environmental activist has submitted a formal petition to the Chief Wildlife Warden at Panjabari, seeking urgent intervention to protect Deepor Beel from alleged illegal dumping and pollution. The petition, dated February 23, highlights concerns over continued waste disposal activities near the Boragaon area.
Deepor Beel, located on the southwestern edge of Guwahati, is Assam’s only Ramsar site and a notified Wildlife Sanctuary.
A Guwahati-based activist has petitioned the Chief Wildlife Warden seeking urgent action to stop alleged illegal dumping near Deepor Beel. The February 23 letter raises concerns over pollution, resumed waste disposal near Boragaon, and contamination of connected water channels. Deepor Beel is Assam’s only Ramsar site and a notified Wildlife Sanctuary.
Petition Filed Over Alleged Dumping Near Boragaon
In his letter, Pramod Kalita urged authorities to immediately stop alleged illegal dumping near the wetland, demarcate the Ramsar boundary clearly, and prepare comprehensive conservation and wildlife management plans.
The petition alleges that dumping activities have resumed in the Boragaon locality, less than one kilometre from a previously closed dumping ground.
Reference to National Green Tribunal Orders
Kalita referred to orders passed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Original Application No. 19/2014/EZ, which had earlier directed the closure of waste disposal activities in the area.
The petition claims that despite these directions, dumping has allegedly resumed in the same locality.
Risk to Deepor Beel’s Ecosystem
According to the submission, leachate from the dumping site is mixing with floodwaters that eventually flow into Deepor Beel. The new dumping location is reportedly along the bank of the Pamohi River, which connects directly to the wetland.
Several rivers and drains flowing through Guwahati, including the Basistha, Bharalu, Bahini, and Mora Bharalu, are linked to the beel through interconnected water channels. Pollution in these waterways can directly impact the wetland’s ecosystem.
Concerns Over Water Quality
Referring to reports by the Pollution Control Board, Assam, Kalita stated that the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels in Deepor Beel frequently exceed the prescribed limit of 3.0 mg/l, indicating contamination.
Deepor Beel was recognised as a Ramsar site on August 19, 2002, and declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 2009. The wetland is known for its ecological importance, including supporting migratory birds and aquatic biodiversity.
Why This Matters for Guwahati
Deepor Beel plays a critical ecological role for Guwahati by acting as a natural water reservoir and flood buffer. Environmental concerns surrounding the wetland directly affect the city’s drainage systems, biodiversity, and long-term sustainability.
Any degradation of the wetland could have broader implications for urban water management in Guwahati.
What Happens Next?
The petition seeks immediate intervention from wildlife and environmental authorities. It calls for strict enforcement of existing environmental norms and monitoring of waste disposal activities near the sanctuary.
Further action will depend on official responses from the concerned departments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why is Deepor Beel important to Guwahati?
Deepor Beel is Assam’s only Ramsar site and a notified Wildlife Sanctuary. It supports biodiversity and helps regulate water flow in Guwahati.
Q2. What concerns have been raised in the petition?
The petition alleges resumed illegal dumping near Boragaon, potential contamination of connected rivers, and rising BOD levels in the wetland.
Q3. What is the prescribed BOD limit mentioned in the petition?
The prescribed Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) limit cited is 3.0 mg/l.