Assam’s Chief Minister announces a transformative Rs 800 crore project to rejuvenate 129 beels, enhancing fish production and water management through sustainable practices.
Guwahati: On October 19, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma unveiled an ambitious initiative aimed at revitalizing 129 beels throughout the state, backed by an investment of approximately Rs 800 crore. This significant project, in partnership with the Asian Development Bank, seeks to enhance fish production and improve water management, marking a vital step towards sustainable resource conservation.
Dubbed the Sustainable Wetland and Integrated Fisheries Transformation (SWIFT), the project aims to rejuvenate around 4,000 hectares of beel fisheries, which are essential to Assam’s hydrological ecosystem. These natural water bodies are crucial for flood control, groundwater recharge, and regulating river flow, while also serving as a key resource for local fisheries.
“Beels are fundamental to Assam’s hydrological resources. This project will not only restore these vital ecosystems but also significantly boost indigenous fish production,” Sarma stated. “Our goal is to enhance the water storage capacity of these beels and implement effective conservation and management of native fish species.”
The SWIFT project is projected to yield an additional 1,200 kg of fish per hectare annually, thereby making a substantial contribution to the local economy and food security for communities reliant on these resources for their livelihoods.
Beyond improving fish production, the initiative also aims to enhance water storage capabilities and encourage sustainable resource management practices. By focusing on the conservation of indigenous fish species, this project aligns with Assam’s broader objectives of environmental sustainability and biodiversity preservation.
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