Geological and Ecological Analysis of Munia-2 Wetland: Understanding Its Role in the Sundarban Deltaic Region, West Bengal
摘要
Wetlands (The presence of water for all or part of the year over land leads to the formation of wetland areas where most plants are hydrophytes) are lands transitional between terrestrial and aquatic ecology (The examination of the relationships formed between organisms and their surroundings) and ecosystems where the water table is usually at or near the surface or the land is covered by shallow water. The value of the world’s ecology and wetlands is increasingly receiving due attention as they contribute to a healthy environment in many ways. Due to that, economic prospects and the origin of employment can also be noted. The study further addresses the management initiatives for these sensitive ecosystems, pinpoints the institutional gap, and indicates areas of priority where prompt action is needed to improve conservation plans for these fruitful systems. This new wetland, Munia-2, was selected because it is well known as one of the richest ecological areas for the munia bird. Being in the middle of the New Town planning region, it is a major source of biological and tourist attractions and an important center of economic growth. This research involved a cross-sectional study and the development of a mixed method for identifying the estimated issues. QGIS (Quantum Geographic Information System is a free software designed for analyzing and creating maps with spatial data) version 3.26 was used for the study area mapping. It was concluded that wetlands in Kolkata are one of the most diverse and important ecosystems because of their geographical and climatic conditions. Munia -2 wetland played a very crucial role in maintaining the hydrological cycle (Water moves accurately through its cycle, beginning on, above or below Earth’s surface by evaporating, condensing, precipitating, infiltrating or running off) and supporting a large diversity of different types of flora, fauna, and microbes at the micro level. However, the national water sector policy has not paid enough attention to managing these wetlands. Because of this, anthropogenic pressures (Humans contribute to environmental changes by polluting, burning forests or building cities) affect many wetlands in both urban and rural locations. These pressures include changes in land use within the watershed, pollution from industry and homes, encroachments, tourism, and over-exploitation of natural resources very rapidly. The features of Munia-2 wetland include a distinct stratified lithological profile which has clayey, silty, and sandy layers that foster biodiversity while retaining water. The wetland supports fishing along with agriculture and new eco-tourism, earning over INR 2.7 million every year as of now. The wetland is most visited for tourism during the winter and autumn season due to the diverse species found there. Munia-2 wetland is subjected to pollution, sediment loss, and climate change, which decreases the ecological potential. Like other water bodies, it aims for functional, community managed wetland systems.