Connecting the Dots: Unraveling the History of East Kolkata Wetlands
In a remarkable example of natural wastewater treatment, the East Kolkata Wetlands have been recycling nearly 80 percent of the city's waste water for decades. Spanning 125 square kilometers, these wetlands produce 22 tonnes of fish and 150 tonnes of vegetables daily, making them a vital component of Kolkata's ecosystem.
According to environmental-humanities researcher Jenia Mukherjee, who has spent years studying this region, "The East Kolkata Wetlands are an exemplary model of natural wastewater treatment. They demonstrate that with proper management, sewage-fed ponds can be highly effective in recycling waste water and producing valuable resources."
Mukherjee's research, which began in 2007, involved constructing a 250-year history of the canal system using archival material. Her findings revealed that when the British colonized India, they chose Kolkata as a site to develop, recognizing its strategic location on the Hooghly River.
"The British built an extensive network of canals and sewage-fed ponds to facilitate trade and commerce," Mukherjee explained. "However, their approach was largely driven by economic interests, with little consideration for environmental sustainability."
Despite this, the East Kolkata Wetlands have continued to thrive, thanks in part to the cooperative ownership model adopted by many of its 254 sewage-fed ponds. In these ponds, profits are shared equally among members, providing a financial incentive for sustainable management practices.
One such pond, where Mukherjee was photographed standing with a fisherwoman, is owned by a cooperative that has implemented innovative methods to maintain ecological balance. The fisherwoman, who wishes to remain anonymous, holds a water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes) plant, which, although it can harm the pond in excess, provides essential benefits such as absorbing toxic metals and preventing soil erosion.
Mukherjee's research highlights the importance of understanding the complex history and ecology of these wetlands. "By tracing the dots between colonial-era development and modern-day management practices, we can identify opportunities for improvement and develop more sustainable approaches to wastewater treatment," she said.
The East Kolkata Wetlands serve as a model for other urban areas struggling with wastewater management issues. As cities around the world grapple with the challenges of population growth and environmental degradation, this remarkable example offers valuable insights into the potential of natural systems to provide solutions.
In conclusion, the East Kolkata Wetlands are a testament to the power of nature-based solutions in addressing complex environmental challenges. By continuing to study and learn from these wetlands, we can develop more effective strategies for wastewater treatment and promote sustainable development in urban areas worldwide.
*Reporting by Nature.*
