Keoladeo Park Faces Water Crisis

Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan is confronting a significant water crisis, imperiling its rich biodiversity and fragile wetland ecosystem. A deficient monsoon rainfall and the complete absence of its annual water allocation from the Panchana Dam have led to several wetland blocks drying up.

Park officials state that the wetland requires 550 million cubic feet of water each year, traditionally supplied by the Panchana Dam. This year, however, no water has been released, forcing the relocation of fish, a crucial food source for birds.

Emergency measures, such as water from the Chambal drinking water pipeline and groundwater pumping, are being utilized. Despite requests for weekly supplies, park directors acknowledge these are temporary solutions, inadequate for the wetland's ecological needs.

The dwindling water levels are already affecting bird activity, with nesting yet to commence for several species. Beyond wildlife, the prolonged shortage poses a threat to the livelihoods of guides, hoteliers, and others whose income relies on the park's tourism.

Historically, water releases from the Panchana Dam have sustained breeding colonies and supported the wetland's food chain through nutrients and aquatic life. The current situation jeopardizes this critical ecological functioning.