An extensive survey was conducted in Sagar and Basanti blocks of Sundarban on the recent impact of Aila : how it has damaged the fresh water ponds by inundation of saline water and the coping mechanisms followed by farmers. The fish ponds in all the low lying areas of both the islands are vulnerable to coastal flooding and sea water inundation which leads to breach of pond dyke, ingression of saline water into freshwater pond, escape of fish stock from the pond, entry of other (often unwanted) fish species, fish mortality etc. Risk analysis revealed that in both Sagar and Basanti blocks, farmers considered breach of pond embankment, mortality of fishes due to saline water ingression as extreme risks; escape of fish stock and diseases as high risk; entry of unwanted species, retardation of growth and deterioration of water quality as medium risks; and damage of pond environment as low risks. The coping mechanisms adopted by the farmers as revealed by the survey are increase in pond dyke height; repair and strengthening of dyke; plantation on dyke; dewatering and addition of fresh/rain water; application of chemicals/ lime/ dung; addition of tree branches in pond for hide outs etc. 

                                                                                                                          Coping Measures against Saline Water Inundation

Back