Kolkata, West Bengal
East Kolkata Wetlands (EKW) are a vast expanse of natural and human-made wetlands located on the eastern fringes of Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Covering approximately 12,500 hectares, this unique ecosystem includes salt marshes, agricultural fields, sewage farms, and fish ponds. Designated as a "wetland of international importance" under the Ramsar Convention on August 19, 2002, the EKW is renowned for its resource recovery systems developed by local communities. The wetlands serve as a natural sewage treatment system for the city, utilizing wastewater to sustain fish farms and agriculture, effectively saving Kolkata from the costs associated with constructing and maintaining conventional wastewater treatment plants. The wetlands are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including approximately 100 plant species, numerous fish species cultivated in sewage-fed ponds known as bheris, and various bird species and mammals, making it one of Kolkata's most significant ecological and conservation areas.
The East Kolkata Wetlands have been developed over decades through the resource recovery systems created by local communities, who have ingeniously utilized the city's wastewater to sustain fish farms and agriculture. The wetlands were designated as a "wetland of international importance" under the Ramsar Convention on August 19, 2002, recognizing their ecological significance and unique resource recovery systems. The EKW serves as a natural sewage treatment system for Kolkata, processing the city's wastewater through a network of fish ponds (bheris) and agricultural fields. This innovative system has effectively saved Kolkata from the costs associated with constructing and maintaining conventional wastewater treatment plants, while simultaneously supporting local livelihoods through fish farming and agriculture. Despite their ecological significance, the EKW face threats from illegal landfills and urbanization, leading to concerns about environmental impact. To address these challenges, the East Kolkata Wetlands Management Authority (EKWMA) was established under the East Kolkata Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Act, 2006, to oversee conservation and management efforts. The wetlands continue to play a crucial role in Kolkata's environmental health, serving as both a natural wastewater treatment system and a vital habitat for diverse flora and fauna.
Ramsar Site: Designated as a "wetland of international importance" under the Ramsar Convention, recognizing its ecological significance
Natural Sewage Treatment: Serves as a natural sewage treatment system for Kolkata, utilizing wastewater to sustain fish farms and agriculture
Fish Ponds (Bheris): Network of sewage-fed fish ponds supporting local fish farming and livelihoods
Agricultural Fields: Agricultural fields utilizing treated wastewater for crop cultivation
Salt Marshes: Natural salt marshes contributing to the wetland ecosystem
Flora: Approximately 100 plant species supporting the wetland ecosystem
Fish Species: Numerous fish species cultivated in the sewage-fed ponds
Bird Species: Various bird species inhabiting the wetlands, making it a bird-watching destination
Mammals: Various mammal species contributing to the area's biodiversity
Exploring the vast wetland ecosystem and observing its unique resource recovery systems
Bird watching and observing various bird species in their natural habitat
Learning about the natural sewage treatment system and resource recovery methods
Visiting fish farms (bheris) and understanding traditional fish farming practices
Observing agricultural activities utilizing treated wastewater
Understanding the ecological significance and conservation efforts
Photography of the wetland landscape, flora, and fauna
Learning about the Ramsar designation and international importance of the wetlands
Location: Eastern fringes of Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Key Access Points: Bantala Bheri Area, Dhapa near Science City and EM Bypass, Chinar Park & Kheadaha Village, and Mukundapur & Bhangar Belt
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 12 km
Major Railway Stations:
Sealdah Railway Station – approx. 8 km
Howrah Railway Station – approx. 15 km
Kolkata Railway Station – approx. 10 km
Metro Station: Nearest metro stations accessible via connecting transport
The wetlands are strategically located on the eastern fringes of Kolkata, making them accessible from various parts of the city through multiple access points.
East Kolkata Wetlands are accessible by road from various parts of Kolkata. The wetlands are located on the eastern fringes of the city, with key access points including the Bantala Bheri Area, Dhapa near Science City and EM Bypass, Chinar Park & Kheadaha Village, and the Mukundapur & Bhangar Belt. Public bus services operated by the West Bengal Transport Corporation and other operators provide connectivity to these access points from various parts of Kolkata. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly in the area, offering convenient access for visitors. The wetlands are easily accessible from major railway stations including Sealdah, Howrah, and Kolkata stations, and the international airport, making it convenient for both local visitors and tourists. The wetlands' location on the eastern fringes of Kolkata and multiple access points make them accessible for visitors interested in exploring this unique ecosystem. Visitors are advised to check with local authorities or tour operators for guided visits and to understand the best ways to explore the wetlands while respecting the ecological sensitivity of the area. The East Kolkata Wetlands Management Authority (EKWMA) oversees conservation and management efforts, and visitors should follow guidelines to minimize environmental impact.