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Lake City, Kolkata - Urban Wetlands
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A 20 minute drive from the center of Kolkata towards the northeastern part of the
city lies one of the largest wetlands in India. Although used predominantly for
commercial fishery today, this huge drainage bowl attracts water birds in variety
and quantity. Waders dominate but ducks and other birds also find refuge here. The
marsh land starts within the city limits and spreads out in all directions. I have
recorded 70+ species over a short period of casual bird watching, and that too from
just the city edges. I estimate another 30 species can easily be found, making this
a 100+ species area.
Salt Lake Nalaban has a beauty in it's simplicity. Although squeezed in on the edges
by rapid urbanization, the vast stretches of clear and shallow water gives a sense
of serenity and openness. Birds here make a home with hostile human neighbors. As
they primarily feed on the fish which is the only source of income for the population,
there is competition with the humans having the upper hand. Slings are the instruments
of aggression against the trespassers (although it is debatable who is trespassing)
and the birds have learnt to keep sling shot distance.
Large waders dominate this water body along with cormorants. Great Egrets and Grey
Herons are the star attractions and I have counted upwards of 80 Grey Herons in
the Nalban bheri
How to get there:
Salt Lake is easily accessed from the city. You can drive up to the Technology Park
and the water body is right across the approach road. It pays to go straight up
to the end of the road and walk along the the edges of the fish tanks. Another approach
is from near the water tank next to the Fisheries office. This part is more pristine.
Best time to visit:
November to January when the temperatures dip. Early mornings (6.30 am) and late
afternoon (3.30 pm onwards) are the best time(s) of the day
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