Deepor Beel Wetland: A Ramsar-Listed Site in Danger
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sounded the alarm for Deepor Beel, a vital wetland in Guwahati, Northeast India. Listed as a Ramsar site, Deepor Beel is under threat due to environmental degradation and pollution, as revealed by the NGT's Eastern Zone Bench.
The NGT's Intervention
The NGT's intervention was prompted by a news report published in a local English daily last year, which highlighted the deteriorating condition of Deepor Beel. The tribunal, led by Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member Ishwar Singh, has taken note of the violations committed by the Assam Pollution Control Board (APCB).
Pollution Levels Beyond Prescribed Norms
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the water quality parameters at Deepor Beel exceeded the prescribed limits, indicating severe pollution. The presence of faecal coliform and faecal streptococci was particularly concerning.
The Response and Next Steps
The Assam State Wetlands Authority, in its response, did not adequately address the violations and the status disclosed in the CPCB and APCB reports. In response, the NGT has granted a four-week period for remedial measures and has requested a fresh status and action taken report. Moreover, the Guwahahati Municipal Corporation has been impleaded as a respondent, recognizing its role in addressing urban pollution impacting the wetland.
Implications for Northeast India and Beyond
Deepor Beel is not just a local concern; it is a national treasure. Its degradation not only affects the biodiversity and ecosystem but also raises questions about the effectiveness of pollution control measures in India. The situation at Deepor Beel serves as a reminder of the urgent need for stricter environmental regulations and increased accountability for those responsible for protecting our natural resources.
A Call for Action
As citizens of Northeast India, it is our collective responsibility to ensure the protection and preservation of our environment. The NGT's intervention at Deepor Beel is a call to action for all of us. Let us work together to safeguard our precious wetlands and promote sustainable development.