Concept and Concerns for East Kolkata Wetland:A Ramsar Site in West Bengal

Conceptually, East Kolkata Wetland (EKW) was declared by the IUCN as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 2002 because of its immense ecological values and wise uses. Consequently, the designation of this wetland as a Ramsar site marks the commitment of the Government of India to undertake measures for ensuring its wise use. The 'Wise Use' concept of the Ramsar Convention provides a framework for management planning for wetlands. Wise use of wetlands is defined in the Convention text as 'the maintenance of their ecological character, achieved through implementation of ecosystem approaches, within the context of sustainable development'. Formulation of integrated management plan emphasizes on development of effective institutional mechanisms for conservation and sustainable development of the wetland for the benefit of stakeholders. Generally the stakeholders, fishermen and the communities directly related with this wetland for their livelihood remain much more concerned about the wetland. In EKW the local communities are especially concerned about the rapid change in biodiversity of various bheries associated within this wetland system due to changes in hydrological regimes and land use. Problem of encroaching urban development is grave. Silting up of the fishponds resulting in cutting potential fish production by two-thirds is the main concern of the stakeholders. However, on the basis of their concern management plans are nowadays drawn to enhancing fish biodiversity through establishing a centre for culture of indigenous fish species and establishing units for standardization of captive breeding of endangered species.