The World Wetlands Day is celebrated annually on February 2nd to mark the adoption of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 1971. This international treaty aims to conserve and promote the sustainable use of wetlands worldwide. This year's theme, "Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future," highlights the importance of preserving these unique ecosystems for both present and future generations.
Haors are a distinctive wetland ecological system in Bangladesh. These large, bowl-shaped floodplain depressions, primarily located in the north-eastern region of the country, cover approximately 1.99 million hectares (19,998 sq km) and support around 19.37 million people. There are 373 haors spread across the districts of Sunamganj, Sylhet, Habiganj, Maulvibazar, Netrakona, Kishoreganj, and Brahmanbaria. Collectively, they cover an area of about 859,000 hectares, accounting for nearly 43 per cent of the total area of these districts.
Haors comprise a mosaic of wetland habitats, including rivers, streams, canals, seasonally flooded cultivated plains, and beels. These bowl-shaped depressions, also known as backswamps, play a crucial role in the country's ecology and economy. During the monsoon season, haors transform into vast stretches of water, receiving surface runoff from rivers and canals. This annual flooding replenishes the soil, creating fertile conditions for agriculture in the dry season.
These wetlands are biodiversity hotspots, supporting a wide variety of plant and animal life. They provide critical habitats for fish, birds, and other aquatic species. Additionally, haors contribute significantly to flood control, water purification, and groundwater recharge. The livelihoods of millions of people depend on these wetlands, with fishing, agriculture, and livestock rearing serving as primary economic activities. Haors also supply resources such as reeds, grasses, and medicinal plants.
Despite their ecological and economic significance, haors face numerous challenges, including overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution, and the adverse effects of climate change. These mindless acts and natural changes endanger both the ecological balance and the livelihoods of those who rely on these wetlands. Conservation efforts are essential to safeguard haors and ensure their sustainable use. Community-based management, sustainable fishing practices, and habitat restoration initiatives are among the key strategies being implemented.
Understanding the importance of haors and addressing the challenges they face are crucial steps toward ensuring the long-term health and productivity of these unique wetland ecosystems. By working together, it is possible to protect these vital natural resources for the benefit of both people and nature.
MD. Al-Fahad
Postgraduate student
Haor and Char Development Institute
Bangladesh Agricultural University
Mymensingh
