Shallbugh Wetland Conservation Reserve J&K: The Aquatic Ecosystem of Kashmir Himalaya

Shallbugh Wetland Conservation Reserve J&K : Shallabugh Wildlife Conservation/ Wetland Reserve is one of the very important Wetland Conservation Reserves falling within the River Jhelum basin. Shallabug Wetland Conservation Reserve is located in the District Srinagar, UT of J&K.  It is an important aquatic ecosystem of Kashmir Himalaya and covers an area of 1675 hectares. 

Large areas of the wetland dry up between September and March. The wetland is famous for its various system including  fisheries, clean water, regulates flooding, and it also acts as a carbon sink. The one of the major significance about the wetland is that its excessive siltation is the biggest problem threatening the Site’s ecological characteristics.

The area has extensive reedbeds of Phragmites communis and Typha angustata, and rich growth of Nymphaea candida and N. stellata on open water. It serves as an abode to more than four lakh resident and migratory birds of at least 21 species. 

Shallabugh Wetland plays a major role in the natural control, amelioration or prevention of flooding, It is also important for seasonal water retention for wetlands or other areas of conservation importance downstream. The wetland is important for the recharge of aquifers.

A major natural floodplain system. Shallabugh Wetland provides plethora of ecosystem services, these include fish and fiber, water supply, water purification, climate regulation, flood regulation, recreational opportunities. The wetland serves as an important breeding ground for many species of waterbirds 

• The average elevation of the Wetland is 1580m AMSL. 
• It serves as an abode to more than four lakh resident and migratory birds of at least 21 species.
•  It is an important aquatic ecosystem of Kashmir Himalaya and covers an area of 1675 hectares.