Bhoj wetland faces ecological crisis, Experts call for immediate action

In Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, an ecological wonder that has sustained life for over a millennium now teeters on an environmental crisis. The Bhoj Wetland, a pair of man-made lakes dating back to the 11th century, is caught between rapid urban development and conservation efforts.

Designated as a Ramsar site since 2002, this wetland is globally recognized for its biodiversity. Recent road construction proposals in its catchment area have alarmed the Ramsar Convention Secretariat in Switzerland, prompting urgent clarification from Indian authorities.

The story of Bhoj Wetland begins with King Bhoj of the Paramara dynasty commissioning an earthen dam across the Kolans River in the 11th century. The Bhoj Wetlands have a total water-spread area of 32.29 square kilometers (sq km) and a catchment area of 370.6 sq km. This created the Upper Lake, or Bhojtal, one of the oldest and largest man-made lakes in central India. Seepage from this lake formed the Lower Lake, completing the twin-lake system we now know as the Bhoj Wetland.

The Bhoj Wetland is more than a historical relic; it is crucial for the region's ecology and human development. A Ramsar site is a haven of biodiversity, hosting about 2,500 migratory bird species. It's a vital habitat for breeding and nesting, with 15 fish species and various turtle species in the Upper Lake. It's the lifeblood of Bhopal, supplying drinking water to approximately 1.2 million people daily.

This ecological treasure faces mounting challenges. Dr. Abhilasha Bhawsar, Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Environmental Sciences, who has been studying the wetland for years, paints a worrying picture. "We've seen a steady decline in the number of migratory birds over the past decade," she notes. "This is concerning because their presence is critical for maintaining Ramsar site status."

"Bhopal's rapid expansion and urbanization are taking a toll on the wetland," Dr. Bhawsar explains. "The influx of visitors, while good for awareness, is disturbing the habitats of various species. Moreover, developmental projects in the catchment area are impacting the wetland's ecology."

A study published in 2022 revealed worsening water quality in the wetland due to sewage, nutrients, and toxins from catchment areas. The Upper Lake faces a daily influx of about 9.82 million gallons (44 MLD) of sewage, straining the ecosystem's self-cleansing ability.

The threats to the wetland are numerous and complex. Dr. Bhawsar points out, "Untreated sewage, non-functioning treatment plants, and inorganic fertilizers from nearby agricultural activities are top concerns, leading to increased nutrient levels in the lake and causing eutrophication." Construction activities also pose a significant threat. "It hampers the natural flow and velocity of water," she explains. "This is critical for the breeding and reproduction of aquatic species, with severe long-term impacts on biodiversity."

The authorities' response has been unsatisfactory, according to Dr. Bhawsar. "The issue of developmental projects in the Upper Lake's catchment area was raised two decades ago," she states. "Yet, adequate measures haven't been taken. We still see hotels and other establishments that have stood on the lake's banks for over 25 years, despite petitions from the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board."

Last year in September, The National Green Tribunal criticized the Madhya Pradesh government for damaging the water bodies. In a significant move, the NGT issued a directive to cease the operation of cruise vessels and other motor-powered boats in the wetland, responding to an application filed last year expressing concern about the deteriorating wetland condition.

Scientists emphasize the need for a more comprehensive, long-term approach despite the importance of regulatory measures. Dr. Pankaj Kumar, a scientist at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal and co-author of a study on Bhojtal's ecology and water quality, highlights the limitations of current efforts. "Despite nature-based management initiatives, there is little progress in curbing ongoing groundwater depression and declines in lake water level and quality," he notes.

Dr. Kumar stresses the importance of regenerating local resources rather than relying on external solutions. "The research highlights the fact that appropriate attention is required to regenerate the local resources such as forests, catchment area or grass that prevents siltation, rather than depending on other catchment sources for sustaining the local ecosystem services, which have already shown a significant decline in the recent past," he explains. This approach aligns with Dr. Bhawsar's emphasis on maintaining a buffer zone and the critical role of the catchment area in the wetland's survival.

Dr. Kumar offers a cautiously optimistic view. He suggests that with appropriate measures and long-term planning, the Bhoj Wetland can adapt to changing climate conditions. "Scientists have given several suggestions, like engineering solutions, hybridization of technology, water harvesting, improved knowledge about regional catchment hydrogeology, etc. If these interventions are adapted appropriately, they will help resilience for both population load and climate-change impacts in future," he adds.

Despite challenges, experts believe development and conservation can coexist with proper planning. Dr. Bhawsar advocates for "knowledgeable people on decision-making committees" and investments in "high-level technology and techniques for conservation." She emphasizes maintaining a 200-meter buffer zone around the wetland for effective conservation and suggests de-silting to maintain water depth and improve oxygen levels for aquatic life.