The beautiful and mesmerizing lake, Son Beel also called as Shon Bill is the second-largest seasonal wetland in Asia and the largest wetland in Assam. The most amazing thing about Son Beel is that it becomes farmland for rice cultivation during winter till March and then the land fills with water and becomes a lake. The average depth of the lake is 1.5 m which makes it overflow during the monsoons and the water meets Kushiara River and then flows to Bangladesh. The lake is surrounded by hills which gives it a picturesque view. Son Beel is very famous for fishery and provides fish for the entire Southern Assam especially Bhujia Fish.
The seasonal wetland is habitant of various Hizol Trees which gives a mesmerizing view around. They stand tall in both wet and dry seasons and are truly an attraction point. Also the sunset and sunrise near the lake gives a colorful view as the sun rays reflect on the waters.
Son Beel offers multiple ecosystem services to the locals residing in the nearby areas of the wetland. These services include provisioning services, regulating services, cultural services and supporting services. The beneficial impacts of such ecosystem services are indirect, likewise primary production, water cycling and nutrient cycling, etc. Boating in the lake also provides a means of livelihood to the locals as well as a soothing experience to the visitors.
Many Environmentalists have proposed the State Government to identify Son Beel under the Ramsar Convention of Wetland of International importance. Son Beel can also be developed into an important research area in Assam.
REFRENCES
https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/son-beel-looks-atrs-400cr-facelift/cid/1447376
Lakes of India 