2012-04 West Bengal Action Plan On Climate Change

WEST BENGAL ACTION PLAN ON CLIMATE CHANGE 1
West Bengal State Action Plan on

Climate Change
April, 2012
Table of Contents
Message
Preface
Executive Summary..........................................................................................................................................12
Chapter 1 – Intoduction ..................................................................................................................................................38
Chapter 2 - Process of Preparation ............................................................................................................................40
Chapter 3- West Bengal State Profile........................................................................................................................43

Physiography
Climate
Demography
Water resources
Biodiversity and Forests
Economy
Chapter 4 - Observed Climate and Climate Projections ....................................................................................47

Observed Climate, Extreme events and Sea Level Rise
Projections of Climate, Extreme events and Sea level Rise
Chapter 5 – Water Resources ........................................................................................................................................52

Introduction
Water Availability and Demand
Existing Water Related Concerns in West Bengal
Institutions Involved in Water Sector Service Delivery
Current Policies, Programmes and Projects of the Government
Impacts of Climate Change on Water Flows and Storage
Strategies and Actions to Address concerns due to Climate Change
Chapter 6 - Agriculture......................................................................................................................................................70
Introduction
Agriculture Scenario in West Bengal
Service Delivery Institutions in the Agriculture Sector
Current Policies, Programmes and Projects of the Government
Concerns of the Agriculture Sector due to Climate Change
Strategies and Actions to Address the Climate Change Concerns
Chapter 7 – Forests and Biodiversity.........................................................................................................................110

Introduction
Status of Biodiversity and Forests in West Bengal
Forest Cover and Forest Type Distribution
Current Policies and Programmes of the Government to Protect Biodiversity and Forests and the
Institutions Involved
Chapter 8- Human Health ...............................................................................................................................................119

Introduction
Status of Disease Profile Related to Climate in West Bengal
Service Delivery Institutions in the Health Sector
Policies and Programmes to Manage Morbidity and Mortality in West Bengal
Concerns Related to Climate Change and Human Health in West Bengal
Strategies to Address the Climate Change Concerns
Chapter 9 - Energy Efficiency and renewable Energy .........................................................................................130

Introduction
Status of Electricity, Supply Consumption and Management in West Bengal
National Mission, Policy Environment and Risks
Energy Saving Potential In West Bengal
Concerns due to Climate Change
Strategies and Actions
Chapter 10: Towards Sustainable Habitats...............................................................................................................140

Introdcution
Demography and settlement
Trends in Urbanisation
Urban Projections and Structures of West Bengal
Lifeline Infrastructure
Sanitation and Waste Water
Housing and Contruction
Hazards and Vulnerability
Governance and Public Policy Framework
Likely Impacts of Climate Change
Adaptation Strategies
Chapter 11 - Institute for Climate Change Studies ...............................................................................................158

Introduction
Core-Business
Management of the Institute
Prime Activities
Manpower Requirement
Special Regions ................................................................................................................................................................165
Chapter 12- Darjeeling Himalayas...............................................................................................................................166

Darjeeling Profile
Current concerns of Darjeeling district
Observed trends in Climate and Projected Changes in Climate
Implications of climate change projections
Chapter 13- Sundarbans.................................................................................................................................................206

Sundarban Profile
Current Concerns of the Indian Sundarbans Region
Key Climate Change Concerns for Sundarbans

Annexures...........................................................................................................................................................227
Annexure 1- Adaptation strategies, Actions, timelines and budgets
Annexure 2: Notifications of Steering committee and Drafting Committee
Annexure 3- Notification of the Sectoral Committee
Annexure 4 - Notification of the Sectoral Commitee for EnergyEfficiency
Annexure 4 - Proposed Members of Scientific Advisory Council
List of Tables
Table 3.1: Key features of the state
Table 3.2: Estimates of Net State Domestic Product in Crores by Industry of Origin at Constant
1999-00 Prices
Table 5.1: Water resources in different districts of West Bengal
Table 6.1: Trends of area under different crops and their productivity
Table 6.2: Region specific key concerns due to changing climate in West Bengal
Table 6. 3: Vulnerability of fisheries in various districts of West Bengal
Table 6.4: List of Canals in South 24 Parganas
Table 6.5 . Soil and climatic requirements of horticulture crops
Table 7.1: Areas under forest in different districts of West Bengal
Table 7.2: Scheme wise afforestation activities in 2006-2007
Table 7.3: Forest Fires in 2006-2007 in West Bengal
Table 8.1: Total cases and death due to diarrhoea and enteric fever reported in 2008-2010
Total incidences and death due to vector borne diseases reported from 2008-2010
Table 8.2: Total number of cases tested, confirmed and the positive rate reported from the
National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (2008-2010)
Table 8.3: Total case and death reported from 2008-2010 for vector borne diseases
Table 8.4: Total Malaria cases and percentage of Pf* in West Bengal from 2008-2010
Table 8.5: Sharp rise in dengue the case of two non-endemic district in West Bengal in 2008-
2010
Table 8.6: Positivity Rate* of JE/AES from 2008-2010
Table 8.7 : Sun Stroke cases reported in 2009 & 2010 (Cases & Deaths)
Table 9.1: Key Players in Electricity Generation, Distribution & Use, West Bengal
Table 9.2: Renewable Power Potential and Achievement in West Bengal
Table 9.3: Energy Saving Potential in West Bengal
Table9.4: Climate Change and possible impacts on the Electricity Sector
Table 10.1 Economic activity, Urban Growth, Drivers and growth influwnce districst/Area
Table 10.2: Sectoral demand for water in BCM
Table 10.3: Service levels reported by ULBs in waste management
Table 10.4: Housing and amenities in West Bengal
Table 10.5: Energy consumption within ey segments of Habitats
Table 10.6: Sub sectors contributing to GHG emissios and mitigative potentials
Table 10.7: Climate change an dpossible impacts on Habitats
Table 11.1: Partner Institutions
Table11.2: Suggested Pay Scale of the Scientific Personnel
Table 11.3: Suggested Pay Scale of the Administrative Personnel
Table 12.1: Monthly mean maximum, minimum temperatures and rain fall for the period
1901-2000 for the district of Darjeeling
Table 12.2: Ground water characteristics in the Terai region (Siliguri)
Table 12.3: Population features of Darjeeling in 2001 and 2011
Table 11.4: Climate, Physiographic and geographic drivers for the typical flavor of Darjeeling
Tea
Table 11.5: Status of urban water supply in Darjeeling district as of 31.3.2010
Table 12.6: Existing Heath Infrastructure in Darjeeling District
Table 12.8: Threatened flora and fauna in the Darjeeling area

Table 12.9: Summary of projected changes in climate in 2021-2050s with respect to base line
(1961-1990) in Darjeeling Districts
Table 13.1: The Reserved area of Indian Sundarbans
Table 13.2: Endemic plant species of Sundarbans
Table 13.3: Endangered plants species of sundarbans
Table 13.4: A comparison of primary health care in Sundarban island blocks with respect to
other blocks
Table 13.5: Status of Electrification of households in Sundarbans ( in lakhs)
List of Figures
Figure 4.1: Observed changes in minimum and maximum temperatures in West Bengal
Figure 4.2: Trends of annual rain fall in different agro-climatic zones between 1990 and 2008
Figure 4.3: Increasing trends of severed cyclonic storm over the region of Bay of BengalFigure
Figure 4.4: Projected changes in average rainfall during Winter, pre-monsoon, Monsoon and
post monsoon season in West Bengal 2050s (upper panel) and in 2100 (lower
panel)
Figure 4.5: Projected changes in temperature in 2050s (upper pane) and in 2100 (lower
panel)
Figure 5.1: (a) Drainage basins of West Bengal, (b) Rainfall intensity across West Bengal
Figure 5.2: Current and future water demand by sector in West Bengal
Figure 5.3: (a) Flood prone areas of West Bengal. (b) Drought prone areas of West Bengal
Figure 5.4: (a) Arsenic affected blocks, (b) Fluoride affected block
Figure 5.5: Critical, semi critical and safe ground water blocks of West Bengal
Figure 5.6: Blue water flow, Green water flow and and green water storage in Base line
scenario, mid century scenario (2021-2050) and end of century scenario (2071- 2098)
Figure 6.1: Spatial spread of major crops in West Bengal
Figure 6.2: Distribution of major food crops grown in different agro-climatic zones
Figure 6.3. Inland fisheries resources in West Bengal
Figure 6. 4a: Soil reaction pH map of Burdwan District
Figure 6.4b: Spatial distribution of Boron in Burdwan
Figure 6.4c: Spatial Distribution of zinc in Burdwan
Figure 6. 5a: Organic C status in soils of Birbhum district (Red and Laterite Zone)
Figure 6.5 b: Soil reaction in Birbhum district
Figure 6. 5c: Spatial distribution of boron in Birbhum district
Figure 7.1: Forest Cover Map of West Bengal
Figure 8. 1 : Incidence rate of Acute Diarrhoea Disease in districts of W.B in 2009-2010
Figure 8.2: Recent endemic regions of Malaria in West Bengal Figure 8.3: spread of Kalazar in
West Bengal
Figure 8.4: Spread of Dengue in West Bengal
Figure 8.5: Spread of Chikanguniya in West Bengal
Figure 8.6: Institutional arrangement for management of health in West Bengal
Figure 9.1: Projected Energy Demand, Availability (2007-2031) and Sales
Figure 9.2: Petroleum Product Consumption in West Bengal, 2007-'08
Figure 9.3: Power generation facilities in WEst Bengal
Figure 10.1: Organizational Structure & Manpower strength of the proposed Institute
panel)
panel)
West Bengal
panel)
panel)

West Bengal
Figure 10.1: Distribution of population by size and class of towns
Figure 10.2: Distribution of population by size and class of villages
Figure 10.3: Population Density in CD blocks – West Bengal 2001
Figure 10.4: Projected size class of urban centres (2011-2031)
Figure 10.5: Projected rural and urban population in West Bengal (2001-2026)
Table 10.6: Current statusof household sanitation in West Bengal – 2011
Figure 10.7: Estimated Carbo movement to and fro from Kolkata
Figuer 10.8: Petroleum product consumption in West Bengal
Figure 10.9: Occurrence of cyclone (right) and heavy precipitation events – 1977 to 2002
10.10: Occurrence of heat waves 1977-2003
Figure 12.1:Darjeeling District and drainage map
Figure 12.2: Land use of Darjeeling District
Figure 12.3: Trends of area, production and yields of main crops in Darjeeling. TOS is total oil
seeds
Figure 12.4: Species richness and (a) Forest cover (sq km) and (b) Population density Figure
11.5: Trends of forest cover of Darjeeling between 2001 to 2011
Figure 12.6: Change in type of forest cover between 2001 and 2011
Figure 12.7: Trends of production (1991-2010), yield (1991-2008) and area of production
(1991-2008) of Darjeeling tea. The Y axis on the right represents the yield
Figure 12.8: Price trends of Darjeeling Tea in comparison to tea produced in Dooars and Terai
regions of West Bengal
Figure 12.9: Trends of Occupancy rates in Darjeeling hotels. ID means Indefinite Data
Figure 12.9: Trends of out-turn of fuel wood from Kalimpong district
Figure 12.10: Diseases prevalence in Darjeeling districts in 2010
Figure 12.11: Population growth trends in Siliguri town. Source: Census of India
Figure 12.12: Trends of population growth in the Darjeeling town. Source: Census of India
Figure 13.1 Map of Sundarbans region in West Bengal
Figure 13.2: The different parts of the Sundarban Delta
Figure 13.3: (a) Trends of population and (b) Land use distribution in Sundarbans area
Figure 13.4:Typical fauna of of Sundarbans- Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthers Tigris), Estuarine
Crocodile (Crocodilus porosus) and Birds (Sea gulls)
Figure 13.5: (a) Monthly disturbance of Cyclonic disturbances between 1891-2007 over the
Indian Ocean; (b) Cyclonic storm tracks in Bay of Bengal between 1891-2007; (c) Cyclonic
land falls between 1891-2006 in Nay of Bengal
Figure 13.6: Trends of cyclonic disturbances in the Bay of Bengal between 1891-2010
Figure 13.7: Rising Surface Water Temperature along the Sundarbans c
Preface
Science has indicated that climate change is likely to have adverse impacts on most of the
economic sectors in India that are driven by climate such as Water resources, Agriculture and
allied services, Biodiversity and Forests. These in turn are likely to affect livelihoods
dependent on these sectors. Human health is another area of concern as some of the diseases
are propagated by vectors that are climate dependent.
To address these concerns, the Government of India first defined its policy vis a vis climate
change in June 2008 through a National Action Plan on Climate Change. The eight missions
covered in this action plan were considered with a view to design strategies for adaptation to
climate change that would ensure and enhance ecological sustainability and explore solutions
towards more efficient technologies. Keeping in view that the role of the states of India is key
for translating national policies into action at sub regional level, and decentralizing NAPCC
objectives into local context, it is important for the states to prepare their own Action Plans to
address their specific Climate change concerns.
The Government of West Bengal understands that Climate Change can prove to be a threat as
well as an opportunity for the state. Through a consensus, it has identified the key sectors and
regions that are likely to be most vulnerable and require additional efforts over and above its
existing programmes and policies. The sectors identified are Water resources, Agriculture,
Biodiversity and Forests, Human Health, Habitats and Energy. Additionally, two regions have
been identified as most vulnerable, namely, the Darjeeling Himalayan region in its northern
boundary and the Sundarbans at its Coastal southern end.
The report identifies the key concerns due to climate change for each sector and presents
strategies that are towards ameliorating these concerns and hence adapt to climate change. It
also suggests steps towards energy efficiency and increasing the renewable energy mix.
Further, actions have been defined within each strategy and are budgeted for the 12th and
13th plan, i.e for the next 5 and 10 years.
The 1st part of the SAPCC, published in 2011, included strategies for Water resources,
Agriculture, Biodiversity and Forests, Human Health, Energy efficiency and Renewable
Energy, and an outline for developing a Climate Change institute. In the present report,
Chapters on Habitats, and on Sundarbans and the Darjeeling Hill region are also included.
The strategies have been developed by different working groups of the SAPCC, created one
each for different sectors. The working group members include members from concerned line
departments, researchers, academia, and NGOs. In certain cases, stake holders outside the
working groups have also been consulted to understand the current concerns and the
perception of climate change.
Executive Summary
The West Bengal Context
The geographical positioning of West Bengal is distinctive as it is the only state within the
Indian region, which extends from the Himalayas in the North to the Bay of Bengal in the
south, and has many perennial rivers flowing through the state. Therefore it enjoys an alpine
as well as a sub tropical climate, has abundant water and fertile soils that support a wide
variety of biodiversity in its forests, crops, livestock, and aquatic life and some of them are
unique to the state. About 70% of the population residing in the rural areas draw its
livelihood from the state’s natural resource base, by pursuing agriculture, horticulture,,
animal husbandry, fisheries, and by harvesting forest products. As the natural systems are all
linked to climate, any change in climate is likely to disturb the efficiency of production of these
systems, thereby impacting the associated economy.
In view of the trends of observations and projected changes in climate (see Box 1) and their
likely impacts on natural and man made systems, GoWB, prepared a State Action Plan
towards adaptation to climate change, which it perceives will be required to be adopted in
addition to the ongoing programmes that address the concerns of development. The
strategies in the action plan also provide an opportunity for the state to align its
developmental objectives along a low Carbon path.
Box 1: Observed and projected changes in Climate in West Bengal

Observed trends
o Between 1969-2005 a net warming trend has been established in the annual average temperature
o Minimal decrease in maximum temperatures of the order of -0.25 to -0.5oC in the entire 37 year period
o
o Perceptible increase in minimum temperatures have been observed which ranges between +0.25 to +1.5 C within the
same period
o The total amount of monsoon rainfall, which accounts for more than 75% of total annual rainfall over the state, has not
changed significantly between 1969-2005
o Tough high variability in inter-annual rainfall in time and space has been observed
o A clear positive trend in post monsoon (Oct-Nov-Dec) rainfall in almost all over the state has been observed during 1969-
2005
o The intensity of extreme rain fall events has increased in West Bengal as concluded by the IMD
o In the coastal region, severe cyclonic storms are on the rise, though the total number of cyclones is annually declining.
o High rate of sea level rise at the rate of 5.7 mm/yr observed along West Bengal coast wrt to other stations along the
entire Indian coast line.
Projected changes in 2021-2050 with respect to base line simulation for 1961-1990
o
o A likely increase in temperature between 1.8 to 2.4 C.
o Total amount of precipitation during monsoon, is not likely to change with respect to base line scenario in most parts of
West Bengal.
o The winter and summer seasons likely to experience lower rainfall with respect to base line.
o Sundarbans and Darjeeling Hill area are however projected to have more rainfall with respect to base line scenario.
o The intensity of cyclonic events is likely to increase further
o Sea surge heights might increase to 7.46 m with a hundred year return period
o Sea level will continue to rise in consonance with the global rise, however, the rise in absolute terms is likely to be higher
along the West Bengal coast due to continuous subsidence
The design of the action plan is envisaged to facilitate the implementation of the various
missions of the National Action plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) at a sub national state level.
The NAPCC focuses on 8 missions, and they are, towards (i) harnessing solar energy, (ii)
enhancing energy efficiency, (iii) sustainable agriculture, (iv) integrated water resources
management, (v) sustainable urban habitats, (vi) sustaining Himalayan ecosystems, (vii)
greening India through forests, and (viii) developing strategic knowledge.
This Executive summary highlights the process of preparation, the current concerns of each
sector and that of the identified special regions, the climate change concerns and the
suggested adaptation strategies.
Approach to the Preparation of the SAPCC
The work towards the development of the State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC), has
been done under the aegis of the Department of Environment, which is the focal point for
climate change in the West Bengal Government. The preparation of the SAPCC started with a
scoping workshop in March 2010, and thereafter a steering committee was formulated in the
month of April of the same year.
The steering committee is headed by the chief secretary GoWB, with additional Chief
Secretaries and Principal Secretaries of nine line departments as its members. Simultaneously
a drafting committee was formulated as well, with members from these departments. Next a
meeting of the drafting committee endorsed that the sectors - Water, Agriculture,
Horticulture, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Human health, Forestry, Human habitats, and the
regions of Sundarban's and Darjeeling Himalayas are the most vulnerable in West Bengal as
identified in the scoping workshop. For moving towards a low C path, the committee
recognised that role of enhancing Energy Efficiency in the energy and industry sector and
increasing the share of new and renewable energy resources in the total energy mix of the
state. The drafting committee also suggested that initiatives need to be made to develop an
Institute for climate change that would support the government with scientific inputs for an
informed decision making,
Thereafter 9 committee’s/Working groups were formulated, headed by the the members of

the drafting committe, to develop the background papers on each vulnerable sector and
region. The Working group members included representatives of the line departments,
academia, researchers, and NGOs. The implementation arrangements for undertaking the
SAPCC work is shown in figure 1.
These working groups using published literature and through broad based consultations with
line departments, researchers, academia, NGOs, and general public, drafted the sectoral
chapters on Water resources, Agriculture, Forests and Biodiversity, Human Health, Energy
efficiency and Renewable energy and Institute of for Climate Change and synthesised the
SAPCC, and submitted this 1st part to the MoEF in April 2011. The 2nd version, that is this
version, now includes remaining chapters on Habitats, Sundarbans and Darjeeling Himalayas.
The Adaptation strategies for each sector and the two vulnerable regions were identified
through the following steps:
o 1st a review of each sector in West Bengal and the regions of Darjeeling Himalayas
and Sundarbans was undertaken
o 2nd - The current concerns of each sector and the regions were identified along with
the Institutions and the government programmes, projects and activities that are
supporting development and hence addressing these concerns
o 3rd – An assessment of the current climate trends and the climate projection scenarios
for the mid Century (2021-2050) were made
o 4th- the likely climate change concerns and the corresponding adaptation and
mitigation strategies that would ameliorate the climate change concerns were
identified
Deptt of Environment
Steering Committee
Chair: Chief Secreatry, GoWB
Members drawn from:
Members:
Forest Deptt., Urban Develop.,
Principal Secretary, Environment
Agriculture Deptt., CMU- KUSP,
Addl. Chief Secretary, Forests
Drafting Committee Sundarban Affairs, Green Energy
Addl. Chief Secretary, Power & NES
Principal Secretary, Science & Tech. Develp. Corporation, Panchayat &
Principal Secretary, Urban Develp. Rural Develop, Deptt. Of Science &
Principal Secretary, Agriculture, Technology, Deptt. Of Environment
Principal Secretary, Sundarban Sectoral Committee’s/
Affairs Sectoral Working groups
Principal Secretary, Panchayat & Working groups on:
Rural Development o Water
Secretary, Municipal Affairs o Agriculture
o Forests
o Human Health
o Habitats
o Energy efficiency &
o Renewable energy
Figure 1: Implementation arrangement for preparation of
o Darjeeling Himalayas
The West Bengal SAPCC
o Sundarbans
o Institute for climate
change Studies
Climate change Concerns and Adaptation Strategies
Water resources
Supplying water as per the current demands of each sector is a major concern for the state,
With increase in population and development, the water demand for agriculture, industry,
domestic use, drinking water, forest/ecology and energy is estimated to increase from 106.18
billion Cu m in 2001 to 452.82 Billion Cu m in 2051 (CPCB, 2009). Currently, the maximum
demand is for irrigation in the agriculture sector but in the future the demand may be more
from the energy sector. Further, ground water pollution, over exploitation of ground water in
alluvial plains for agriculture, recurrent droughts and floods, cloud bursts, storm surges and
cyclones in the coastal region accentuate the concerns associated with water resource
augmentation and supply side management.
Climate change concerns: The key projections on the availability of rainfall in a mid century
scenario (2021-2050s), does not suggest any major deficits in West Bengal with respect to the
base line scenario, however, projections indicate a high regional variability in annual asell as
seasonal rainfall across the state. The annual rainfall in Darjeeling Himalayan region and the
coastal region is projected to increase in the mid century scenario. However, in the Himalayan
region there is likely to be decreasing trend in winter rain fall. The increase in extreme rain
fall events is likely to lead to higher run offs, and lower recharge of underground water, and
frequent flash floods. Water availability is also analysed in terms of blue water flow (water
yield - quantified rain fall plus deep aquifer recharge), green water flow (actual
evapotranspiration), and green water storage (soil water). Future projections (2021-2050s)
indicate a decrease in blue water flow with respect to the base line scenario (!961-1990), in
almost all regions of West Bengal, except in the South 24 Parganas and in the Northern
Himalayan region, an increase in the green water flow and almost no change in the
greenwater storage, except a decrease in the Purulia and Medinipur regions. Further in the
coastal region projections sea level rise and increase in intensity of cyclones are likely to
exacerbate the concerns of potable water availibilty in these regions.
Adaptation Strategies: Since there are high spatial variation projecyed in water resource
availability, a region based approach has been taken to devise strategies for water resource
augmentation and management for West Bengal. The regions being the Hill region, the
Alluvial plains, the Red and Laterite region and the Coastal region,
The Teesta entering West Bengal near Pedong.

Source: Photograph by Arnab Chatterjee, uploaded on Trek Earth ,
Table 1: Adaptation strategies suggested for augmentation of the water resource and efficient
management
Region Suggested Strategies
Northern Hill o Avoid water stress in the post monsoon and pre-monsoon period by
Region storing excess run off during monsoon by increasing water storage
capacities through rain water harvesting, ground water recharge, and
reservoirs on rivers to transfer excess water to water deficit basins,
check dams along rivulets, repair and renovate old rain water
harvesting structures and encourage roof top rain water harvesting
at household levels, communities and villages
o Undertake scientific assessments to understand the impact of climate
change on water flows in to the various reservoirs and adequacy of
rain water and snpw melt receipts in future for hydropower
generation
Alluvial Plains o Increase surface water storage potential in view of increase in run off
in the future due to increase in extreme precipitation events which
will not allow sufficient ground water storage. Fuirther desilt existing
dam reservoirs, water channels and old surface water storage
structures.
o Regulate ground water extraction, by phasing out rampant dispersed
extraction and develop area specific ground water recharge centres
that can be used for extraction and distribution of water through pipes
or channels..
o Abate floods, by making arrangements for channelling of flood water,
by improving drainage systems and introducing new drainage systems
in areas that do not have them.
o Assess return periods of floods and develop advance warning systems
Red and Laterite o Undertake special afforestation programmes to enhance the recharge
capacity of springs in and around the spring sheds where dexrease in
zone spring flow is being observed. Further enhance stream flow by

facilitating stream recharge along the slopes of the hills.
o Create check dams intercepting rivulets, nalas, and create trenches out
of the check dams to irrigate fields.
o Enhance surface water storage in existing reservoirs (ponds/dighi’s)
and create new surface storage structures wherever possible.
o Support the implementation of the planned Subarnarekha barrage at
the earliest for augmenting irrigation in the area
Saline Coastal o Increase surface water harvesting structures to increase irrigation
Zone coverage
o Encourage rain water harvesting for potable water
o Built mechanisms to avoid mixing of potable water with saline water
during floodsby storing potable water over ground in tanks at built on
stilts.
o Bridge the gaps in the embankment
Scientific o Assess water demand by sector by including climate change scenarios
Assessments o Monitor quality of water to assess pollution loading due to warming
o Develop systems for effective dissemination of early warnings of
cyclones amongst the population
o Develop flood warning systems for alluvial plains
Policies as o Extend metering of water and charge water use in all urban centres to
strategies encourage efficient use.
o Undertake community based census of minor irrigation structures to
detect dis-functionalities and initiate remedial measures much before
the 5 year cycle of minor irrigation census.
o Encourage water efficient irrigation systems such as drip irrigation,
water sprinklers for agriculture
o Extend compulsory roof top water harvesting to all urban centres in
WB
Agriculture
The agriculture sector in West Bengal is characterized by the predominance of small and
marginal farmers with per capita land holding being less than 1 ha. Rice is the dominant
produce in the alluvial and coastal zone, and horticulture crops dominate productions in the
hill and the terai region. Though there is a limitation in land availability for agriculture, but
high levels of ground water extraction in the alluvial plains have enabled West Bengal to be
number 1 in the country vis a vis rice production. Such levels of over extractions of ground
water may be unsustainable in the future.
Further, a decrease in yields of crops grown in the Rabi season is being observed. Also
increase in infestation of pests and diseases is being reported in rice and horticultural crops.
Further the soil health is deteriorating in the state, necessitating external nutritional
augmentation.
The livestock population in West Bengal is large,

but milk productivity is low, and does not meet
the nutritional requirement of the population,
mostly because of lack of adequate feed
availability for the livestock.
Climate Change Concerns: With increase in

winter temperatures, decrease in yields of Rabi
crops is anticipated such as wheat, horticultural
crops such as potato and that of oil seeds
including mustard. Further, as the annual
average temperatures is projected to exceed by
more than 1oC in the future a reduction in rice
yields with respect to current levels is expected.
Availability of quality seeds might be a concern in
the future. In the coastal areas, increase in sever
cyclones together with the continuous sea level
rise is likely to inundate areas further inland
rendering the soils excessively saline and making
agriculture unviable in the region.
Excess summer temperatures leading to heat

stress, shortage in feed, increase in pests and
diseases and higher levels of humidity are are
likely to reduce milk production in livestock,
including egg production in poultry as livestock
suffer heat stress.
Horticulture products being sensitive to temperature rise, may see decline in productions, but
shifting of cultivation centres at higher altitudes may be profitable.
In marine and freshwater systems, rising water temperatures, as well as related changes in ice
cover, salinity, oxygen levels and circulation may lead to shifts in ranges and changes in algal,
plankton and therefore lead to deacrease in fish abundance. or change the location of
availability.
Adaptation Strategies: The adaptation strategies have been suggested in keeping with the
typical climate change concerns of the various regions, as agriculture is a function of soil,
water and climate. The following tables represent the key adaptation strategies from the list
of strategies provided for each sub sector.
Table 2a: Adaptation strategies to address climate change concerns for the Agriculture crops
o Plan agro-climatic zone wise production of crops to maximise productivity to harness the
typical combination of climate, soil, water and the biodiversity. Also develop and
disseminate amongst farmers region wise packages of technologies for water conservation,
soil conservation, soil nutrient augmentation, and organic pest management for each crop
type.
o Fortify soil nutrition by following a sequential cropping system suitable for different
agrocliamtic zones in the state
o Popularise indigenous rice varieties and introduce new cultivars of rice, and other
important staple crops including maize that are thermal resistant, can endure water stress,
tolerant to salinity, and are fortified with nutrients for growing in soils deficit in
corresponding nutrients. Cultivars ofcourse need to be selected that are suitabke for each
agroclimatic zone. Maize is a C4 plant, which can also bear higher concentrations of CO2, as
compared to other C3 crops.
o Popularise Integrated Farming systems to combine crops, livestock, and fisheries for a self
sustained farming system
o Store germplasm of indigenous cultivars from different agroclimatic zones, and strengthen
research and development for water resource conservation technologies, developing new
climate proofed cultivars, nutrient management, organic pest management, Identification
of crops for crop diversification, Identification of traditional hardy, nutrient rich crops
appropriate for each zone
o Devise Insurance packages against crop failure especially to small and marginal farmers to
avoid migration keeping in view the specific reasons of crop failure in the different regions.
o Provide assistance to marginal farmers for enhancing the marketability of crop produced
by them – such as thrashers, crushers, accessibility to markets, minimums support price
etc.
Table 2b: Adaptation strategies to address climate change concerns for Horticulture
o Encourage horticulture production as per the typical biodiversity of each agro-climatic
zone in keeping with the aims of the horticulture missions
o Develop packages that include measures on water resource conservation, soil conservation
and Integrated Pest management as per the requirement of each agro-climatic zone
o To avoid heat stress due to projected increase in temperatures, immediate adaptation can
be in terms of providing shades to vegetable crops and in the long run, heat resistant
cultivars can replace the use of shades.
o Improve marketability of horticulture products by facilitating post harvest storage,
transport and access to markets.
Table 2c: Adaptation strategies to address climate change concerns for Livestock
o Encourage breeding of small ruminants amongst marginal farmers such as black Bengal
goat, garole sheep and Ghungru pigs for ensuring livelihood security of small and marginal
farmers and hence enhance their adaptive capacity. These species are more hardy and are
likely to survive the projected increase in temperatures.
o Encourage enhanced feed and fodder development through integrated farming systems,
nixed cropping systems, use waste lands for growing feed, and through agro-forestry. A
central fodder bank might also be thought of to store fodder for using during drought.
o Upscale veterinary services to manage new and emerging pests and diseases for all
livestock and ensure accessibility of these services in all regions
o Ensure availability of cattle sheds and water bodies/sprinklers in all areas to avoid
consequences of heat stress
o Undertake research to develop livestock that is a mix of indigenous and cross bred to
develop hardy cattle and ensure adequate milk production

o Undertake capacity building of farmers to ensure climate proofing of livestock and live
stock products vis a vis type of livestock to be reared, shelters to be provide, type of feed to
be provided, and for managing diseases and pests in a changing climate scenario.
Table 2d: Adaptation strategies to address climate change concerns for Fisheries
o Undertake real time monitoring of fish shoals to assess quantum of fish arrival at various
point sof rivers and in different times of the year
o Disseminate real time climate information to inland fish growers, to help them cast
appropriate fish seeds in appropriate climate conditions to realise maximum produce.
o Develop climate forecasting and simulation modelling for better management of fisheries in
the state
o Protect and extend mangrove cover to enhance nutrient content in brackish water and
enhance fish production and safeguard livelihoods of fishermen in the coastal areas
o For enhancing the adaptive capacity of the fishery industry, assess the impacts of climate
change on both inland and marine fish harvested in West Bengal. This will enable mapping
of fish schools as water temperatures change, and help identify new species that may enter
the waters in this region (inkland and marine) from other regions due to climate change.
Though the forest cover is increasing every year, for example between 1988 and 2009 the
forest cover has increased from 14.32% of the total state area (WBSFR 2009-10) to 14.64%
ISFR, 2011), but the quality of forest is continuously decreasing. Even the latest State of the
Forest Report (ISFR 2011), shows a decrease in dense forests and moderately dense forests
by 3km2 and 2km2 respectively with respect to what was reported in ISFR 2009. The open
forest area by 2km2 within the same period. The other concerns of the sector are over
extraction of timber and NTFPs, encroachment into forest areas, man-animal conflict and
forest fires.
Climate change concerns and opportunities: With increase in precipitation, a shift in

vegetation type towards the wetter, more evergreen type is expected. Since these are rather
slow growing, the replacement will take much longer, and increased mortality in the existing
vegetation may lead to a decrease in the standing stock except in the Western part of the state
near Purulia and Birbhum where the vegetation type may become xeric. The net primary
productivity of the forests is also likely to increase.
Even if there is no drastic shift in the biome type, changes in the composition of the
assemblages are very likely. Further, as temperatures increase, spring and summer events
will advance in time leading to early leafing, fruiting, bird egg laying, spawning of amphibians,
arrival of migrant birds and insect emergence etc. As survival of the vegetation is also linked
with the changes in timings of functions of the biota with temperature, a few species may
show steep decline in population and perhaps may move to higher altitudes or become
extinct.
.
Forests in Darjeeling1 Mangrove forests in Sundarban3

This in turn very likely will impact other taxa dependent on the different species (i.e domino
effect) because of the interdependent nature of the plant-animal-microbe communities that
are known to exist in the forests ecosystems. This could lead to major changes in the forest
biodiversity. The nature, extent and type of infestation of pests and diseases is very likely to
change ans temperature and humidity rise. The other impacts could be on the NTF produce,
any decrease in the NTFPs would impact the livelihoods of the population dependent on
forest products
The positive aspects of climate change, will be in terms of enhanced sequestration of CO2, as
slow growing broad leaved vegetation, have high sequestration potential. The sequestration
levels will increase with increase in forest area under this vegetation type.
Adaptation Strategies: Suggested adaptation strategies for forest and biodiversity are
summarised in Table 3. They are mainly alighned along the objectives of the Green India
mission.
Table 3: Adaptation strategies for forests and biodiversity
o Enhance the quality of moderately dense forests and open forests to increase the dense
forest cover in the state and also to increase the C sequestration potential.
o Undertake afforestation activities in feasible areas outside forests to further increase the
Carbon sequestration potential of the state with appropriate species suitable to the climate
o Estimate base line C sequestration potential of the West Bengal forests, and track the
changes in C stored, because of the various actions taken by the government/people for
conserving these forests.
o Undertake afforestation activities to improve spring flows in hilly regions i.e in the
Himalayan and the Red and Laterite region within West Bengal
1
Face book source, Forest Deptt of West Bengal
o Facilitate species migration – both flora and fauna for them to adapt to climate change
o Protect degraded forest areas from land slides due to increase in extreme events
o Ensure that communities that help conserve forests get paid for the ecosystem services
they help provide
Human Health
Continuous increase in incidences of vector borne diseases such as malaria is being observed
in the state though preventive measures are being taken. Example, malaria has increased by
55% between 2008 and 2010. The most
endemic zone of malaria is Kolkata where
more than 60% of the incidences in the state
are reported. The other less endemic areas of
the state being- Purulia, Jalpaiguri,
Murshidabad, and West Midnapore.
Water borne diseases such as Cholera,

Diarrhoea and Enteric fever continue to be
high in West Bengal and 20 to 27 lakh cases
are reported each year. Enteric fever cases
are becoming virulent in Darjeeling area as
attack rates have doubled between 2008 and
2010. In the case of Cholera, though the
disease incidence is decreasing but Kolkata,
North24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas seems to be a constant reservoir of the disease.
The other region specific health issues that are linked to climate are the morbidity and
mortality rates due to - cyclones in the coastal areas, respiratory diseases arising from
inhalation of pollutants from heavy vehicular traffic in urban areas and from burning of
fossil/fuel wood for cooking in rural areas. Incidences of sunstrokes from intense heat are
also quiet high in West Bengal, though number of cases between 2009 and 2010 show a
decline.
As per the data available on rural health infrastructure in West Bengal from the Ministry of
Health and Family Welfare website (http://mohfw.nic.in/NRHM/State%20Files/wb.htm,
accessed on 1st April, 2012), shortfall in health infrastructure is a matter of concern in the
state. Still 20% of the desired number of sub centres, primary health centres and community
health centres need to be established. About 6051 number of multipurpose female workers
exists, which is only 60% of the requirement. The biggest, shortfall is in terms of specialists,
only 13.3% of the workforce exists. Pharmacists and laboratory technicians are also woefully
small in numbers
Climate Change Concerns: Increase in diseases burden amongst children, women and old is
likely to increase as this group is the most sensitive. Vector borne diseases are likely to move
to higher altitudes (Bhattacharya et al., 2006) where they are not existing now, for example,
vectors may become active in upper reaches of Darjeeling and Cooch Bihar. As relative
humidity and temperatures increase, in areas like Kolkata, increase in vegetation growth is
likely to provide more conducive habitats for malaria. Thereby malaria is likely to emerge as
the most menacing disease agent for this mega city. Similarly, water borne diseases might
increase with increase in flood frequency in plains and intensity of cyclones in South 24
Parganas as potable water availability gets affected. Since the pollutant load bearing capacity
of the atmpsphere increases with increase in temperature, the respiratory diseases incidences
are also likely to increase in the state unless source control is carried out. Malnutrition levels
amongst the children may also increase , with less availaibility of food grains due to decrease
in yields of staple crops with increase in temperature, unless replaced with C4 crop grains
that are more CO2 and heat tolerant. Further, higher maximum temperatures as compared to
current average temperatures would lead to heat stress and therefore morbidity.
Strategies for adaptation: In the health sector, the strategies would essentially include
bridging gaps in the present infrastructure. Further an assessment of climate change on
various climate related diseases, their spread, identification of new diseases that might
emerge, location of emergence and associated projected morbidity and mortality rates in the
future would enable the government to climate proof its health policy. The adaptation
strategies suggested for this sector is presented in Table 4.
Table 4: Adaptation strategies for the Health sector in West Bengal

o Initiate research to study the impacts of climate change on all vector diseases, respiratory
diseases, water borne diseases, and extent of malnutrition to quantify morbidity and
mortality rates in future population, to identify vulnerable regions and population in the
state, and for integrating climate change concerns in the health policy of the
o Bridge existing infrastructure gaps in the health sector and identify additional needs in line
with the climate change impact modelling results
o Strengthen and develop an integrated approach for management of vector borne diseases,
in different agro meteorological zones, water borne diseases (coastal and inland), Heat
stress (all areas of WB), Respiratory diseases (All areas of WB) and for controlling of
Malnutrition amongst schildren keeping in view the climate change projections for the
drivers of diseases and the projections of the impacts on the disease that takes care of
source correction, identification of diseases, deployment of treatment, monitoring
o Develop a nutrition policy for the state keeping in view the changing availability of
various food grains as the climate changes
o Develop early warning climate related disease forecast capacities to enable the masses
and the govt to take pre-emptive action
o Integrate climate change in health disaster risk reduction plans for Cyclones, floods and
droughts
o Advisory from the health department may be provided to strictly implelemt policy of
replacing existing chullahs with efficient chullahs to avoid pollution from burning of fossil
fuel and fuel wood used for cooking in rural areas and for shifting to green mass
transport systems, that will include a mix of alternate fuel based vehicles, smart traffic
systems for efficient energy consumption in vehicles, non motorised transport in
congested markets in urban areas and implementing policies for having less number of
cars per day on roads, and for reducing risk of respiratory diseases amongst a large
population, .
o Initiate telemedicine facilities in rural and remote areas for deploying super speciality
advise, include plans for rapid transportation of critical patients from remote areas.
o Communise rural health care to enable communities to assess their requirements, access
funds and facilities as per requirements and audit progress.
Energy efficiency and Renewable energy
Considering that accessibility to electricity drives growth, penetration of electricity in the

rural areas is low in West Bengal, as is exemplified by the fact that only 40.3% of the rural
households are electrified (Census 2011). Also requirement and supply statistics of electricity
scenario for the entire state shows that in 2009-10, the electricity requirement was of the
order of 33750 MU, but actual availability was 2.8% less at 32819 MU (CEA, 20102).
Coal is the predominant energy for generation of electricity in the state. The annual
electricity generation targets are impeded by shortfall in coal– as against the requirement of
50,000 tons of coal only about 42,000 tons are available of which 15% is imported. Sharply
deteriorating coal quality over the years has increased coal consumption for the same amount
of power generation. High ash content in the coal creates operational problems. Also power
plants located away from the coal pits, have problems of availing imported coal because of
logistical problems and steep hike in tariff (Source: Power generation scenario;
www.wbpdcl.co.in).
As per the CEA base line CO2 emission estimates, in 2010, the total amount of CO2 emitted
from fossil fuel based power plants of West Bengal was around 51.9 million tons 3. For
meeting majority of the projected future demand, generation of additional power in the state
centres mostly around use of coal as it is the most abundant in the state. Also, West Bengal has
a huge scope for accessing and using coal bed methane, and has started operations in Raniganj
and Sohagpur blocks in West Bengal for extracting the same.
As far as increasing the renewable energy mix is concerned, West Bengal is already producing
hydropower in Darjeeling district as well as in Purulia. The state is well placed in terms of
availability of other renewable energy sources such as solar radiation, biomass, and wind
energy. The total annual energy generation potential from renewable is about 17,950 MW
(Draft Renewable Energy Policy - West Bengal (PWC, 2010) and WBREDA (2010)). In the
future, tidal energy also can be explored considering its proximity to the sea.
Climate change concerns: A low C path, can be achieved in the energy sector in a number of
ways, by moving towards high efficiency of generation of power from thermal plants, by
2
Source http://www.cea.nic.in/archives/plg/power_glance/nov10.pdf
3
CO2 base line data for power plants in India, Data base ver 7.0, Published by CEA
increasing the share of renewable in the total energy mix, and by changing the end use
behavioural pattern.
Climate change can impede these ambitions. The direct affects may be loss in T&D due to
impact of higher temperatures, increasing frequency of extreme rains and severe cyclones on
transmission and distribution lines in the state. Further, warming is likely to increase the
water requirement of the thermal power plants, especially used for cooling, which might not
be available sufficiently. Melting of glaciers, from where 6 rivers in North Bengal originate,
and which are used for Hydropower generation may get affected. Additionally, availability of
biomass, a renewable energy source might be affected.
Table 5: Adaptation and mitigation strategies for energy sector
o Increase the share of renewable in the grid power by atleast 20% by 2020, by introducing (a)
Solar photovoltaic in areas where waste land is available (e.g. Purulia, Bankura) where wasteland
or abandoned mine areas are available, (b) by replacing use of grid power for certain end-uses
through low temperature solar thermal – e.g. water heating, (c) increase hydropower capacity,
(d) increase wind power capacity, and by (e) increase biomass for power generation
o Reduce anticipated energy and peak demand in the BAU scenario by managing demand-side
Energy efficiency measures in identified consumer categories through -Efficient-device
penetration facilitated by financial, supply chain and market incentives, Adequate financial
incentives for lowering specific consumption, and State-led adoption for enabling critical volumes
of devices and technologies in local market and breaking current cost barriers
o Improve supply-side energy efficiency by enabling lower system losses (technical and
commercial), and enabling improved efficiencies in energy production
o Introduce new technologies for thermal power generation to enhance energy efficiency and hence
lower GHG emissions
o Undertake research to assess the impacts of climate change on power infrastructure and devise
remedial measures
Habitats
Current concern: West Bengal is the fourth most populous state in India, with a population
density of 1029 persons/skm, which is nearly three times the national population density.
A significant part of the state is relatively backward economically, and also tends to
be less advanced in terms of human development (WB HDR, 2004). These include large parts
of Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, Malda, Uttar Dinajpur and Dakshin Dinajpur,
Purulia, Bankura, Birbhum and the Sunderbans.
Of the 25.8 million urban population, 84% reside in 27 Class – I cities with a population of
more than 100,000. The urbanisation rate at 28% is higher than the national average.
Further, the trend of growth of non-agricultural land, decrease in net sown area, increasing
population densities, increasing share of industrial workers and traders, growth in road net
works point to rural areas (and significantly the peri-urban areas) of the state acquiring urban
character.
A paper by Khan et al, 20124, categorises West Bengal having high level of housing shortage.
64% of the rural households live in kuttacha and semi pucca house and 91% live in pucca
houses in urban areas (NSSO, 2010).
87% per cent of rural households and 88% of urban households have access to safe drinking
water (Census, 2001), which is better than the national average. However, nearly, one in every
Urbanisation in Kolkata
Source: Space radar Image of Kolkata. Source: NASA/JPL5.
two households (46%) in urban West Bengal has to collect water from outside premises,
while about one in every five rural households have to travel more than 200 meters to access
drinking water. The SWID investigation reports that groundwater in 81 blocks is
contaminated with arsenic and 49 blocks by excess fluoride. There is a high variation in
status of urban water supply, with per capita availability, ranging from as low as 10 litres per
capita per day (lpcd) to as high as 225 lpcd. On an average, 2only 0.9% households are
connected through household connections.
As per the NSSO, 2010 report, 36% rural households and 10% in urban areas do not have
access to toilets. Of the 3,354 Gram Panchayats, nearly a third (1,041) are Open-Defecation
Free by November 2010, while 37 Panchayat Samitis have also achieved this status. There are
significant differences in sanitation attainments across districts, with Darjeeling, Purulia,
Uttar Dinajpur and Malda showing slow progress.
The state generates about 27 Million TPD of solid waste with a collection efficiency of 70 per
cent (CPCB, 2008). Segregation is reported in only 6 ULBs. Only 10% of the waste collected in
4
Jabir Hasan Khan, Shamsad, Md. Mustaquim; 2012. A comparative analysis of housing shortage and levels
of deprivation. European Journal of Social Sciences, ISSN 1450-2267 Vol.27 No.2 (2012), pp. 193-205
5
Accessed from: http://archive.org/details/VE-IMG-502
urban areas is reported to be treated and disposed in a scientific manner, leading to an

emission of 0.147 million tons of CH4 annually6. Generally, Districts with good economic
growth exhibit comparatively better services, example, districts in KMA – Kolkata, Howrah,
Hoogly, North 24 Parganas and South 24Parganas. Medium service levels are observed in
medium-growth districts – Bardhwan, Birbhum, Darjeeling, Nadia and Murshidabad. The
Municipal solid waste water treatment capacities are also very low, for example the city of
Kolkata generated 706 MLD of waste water but capacity for treatment is only 172 MLD.
The NSSO survey 2010, notes the non-existence of proper drainage network in almost all
ULBs. Drainage pumping capacity was reportedly inadequate, with inadequate capacity of
most drainage outfalls. Severe water-logging in congested city areas and low-lying areas
during the monsoons was a reported regular feature.
The urban sector contributes about 60% of the secondary and tertiary State Domestic Product
(SDP). The urban areas are also the centres of institutional and cultural activities and provide
health and educational facilities to the region. The spatial planning and development of the
urban areas are therefore very important to ensure the growth of the activities in the urban
areas and thereby providing the required boost to the economy of the hinterland as well as to
the State. While the spread of urbanization has positive impacts and created opportunities, it
has also created many problems that act as barriers to improved quality of life. The cities are
faced with problems of inequality, increased competition for basic needs and competition in
access to essential services, and health threats.
The vehicle population has witnessed a CAGR of 9% over the 1997-2006 period. The
transport sector is also a major user of petroleum in the state, making it a source of GHG
emissions. As the vehicle population is increasing, so is the emission of GHGs from this sector.
Within 2005-06 to 2010-11, the CO2 emissions from the transport sector have increased from
5.4 million tons to about 8.0 million tons7, at a CAGR of 10.4%. Heavy density of
transportation are mainly centred around the cities that line the highways and main railway
networks and heavy freight movement in the state is due to its status as a gateway to the
north eastern states. Inter state railways helps 1 million people commute to and fro to
Kolkata every day for work. The intermediate transport from railway station to work is
provided by auto rickshaws and hand driven rickshaws, providing livelihood to a large
portion of the population.
The other state specific concern are the frequent climate related hazards of cyclones, heavy
precipitation events which pose serious threat to infrastructure. Also extreme heat will have
implications on future energy demand.
6
Estimates made using IPCC methodology and EFs specified in INCCA report 1, 2010.
7
Estimated using IPCC 1996 guidelines. Data supplied by the WB govt on fuel use in transport sector. Energy
conversion factors used from IPCC 1996 guidelines, and EFs used as per INCCA Report 1, 2010
Concerns due to climate change: The direct impact of climate change on habitats is likely to
be in terms of impacts due changes in spatial variation in hydrological cycle and the type of
rain fall received. Higher intensity of extreme rain fall would mean flash floods and land slides
leading to heavy economic losses through damage of infrastructure, houses, human lives, and
domestic assets. Increase in intensity of cyclones would mean , higher levels of sea level rise,
and stronger storm surges would have implications on the coastal infrastructure. Increase in
temperature, would mean, not only the heat stress for the population, but increase in energy
demand in cities, as the heat island effect magnifies.
Cyclone Aila from the space

Increasingly the cities are getting more populated as work opportunities are higher here. As a
result of the influx, the urban sprawl is likely to expand further. Unless it is planned, non-
regulated peri-urban settlements will dot the outskirst of the cities with no provisions of
proper housing, sanitation, drainage, access to potable water, health services etc.
Vulnerability of the peri urban population will escalate. Therefore, the state government will
have to provide access to basic services such as adequate housing, drinking water, sanitation,
public health services to adapt to the impacts of floods, cyclones, excess heat. Further increase
in population will mean increase in solid waste generation, increase in vehicular transport
and increase in electricity consumption in domestic and commercial sectors. All these have
implication on enhanced GHG emissions, and mitigating the same will be a challenge.
Adaptation Strategies: The Habitat sector, essentially will need to focus on adaptation vis a
vis the projections of climate change as well infuse higher level of energy use efficiency and
GHG mitigation technologies for household and commercial appliances, transport sector,
municipal solid waste, waste water being a part of requirement of habitation will also need to
have strategies for containing GHG emissions as the number of vehicles on roads grow.
Table 5: Adaptation strategies for the habitat sector
o Set targets for efficiency enhancement and GHG emission reduction with respect to the BAU
scenario through following actions but not limited to-
- Transport Sector through comprehensive planning, fuel economy standards, introduction of
solar and electric rickshaws and auto-rickshaws; and nonmotorised transport in congested
areas
- Methane capture in managed Solid Waste systems and domestic Wastewater streams
- Reduce electricity intensity to reduce emissions indirectly - Municipal Management (Water
Pumping and Public Lighting being electricity-use segments);
- Reduce electricity intensity to reduce emissions indirectly – Commercial energy consumptions
(Public and large Private Buildings being electricity-hungry)
o Increase system and citizen capabilities to adapt to temperature and rainfall changes anticipated
Increased Warming, Changing Rainfall Intensity and temporal pattern and Extreme Events
o Undertake risk mitigation of anticipated impacts from Climate change through
- Improved risk assessment of lifeline infrastructure for likely scenarios of climate change
-Investment and implementation of infrastructure-strengthening initiatives and Warning
systems to cope with extreme events
- devise climate based insurance mechanisms
Special Regions
Two special regions have been identified by the state, as the most vulnerable regions vis a vis
climate change because of the significance of their location, and they are the Darjeeling
Himalays and the Sundarbans.
Darjeeling Himalayan region falls within the Darjeeling district in the northern border of the
state. The Hill region is governed by the Gorkha Hill Council, and the Terai region is under the
governance of the Darjeeling District Administration. The Hill region is important for the
state, as the 6 perennial rivers entering from this region in addition to the Ganges entering
from the western border, makes West Bengal one of the most water rich states in India. The
region has 38% of area under forests, which is 17.61% of the total forest cover of West Bengal
with vey high species richness of biodiversity. The forests produce superior quality timber
and NFTPS. Darjeeling Tea is the most globally well known commercial produce of the region,
though other horticulture products such as orchids, medicinal plants, mandarin oranges, and
vegetables have a significant production potential in the area. Tourism brings in the much
needed economic impetus. This is also a region within the state, where hydropower is
harnessed for meeting a significant portion of the electricity demand of the population.
The region is blessed with high levels of rainfall (2718 mm), but high run off lead to soil
erosion and frequent landslides render extensive damage to infrastructure, agriculture and to
the human population in general. Also high runoff, does not allow enough water to be stored
to ride over the lean period, when rainfall is scanty making the area a water stressed region.
The Tea industry is dogged by old plantations, low level of productivity, and high costs of
production. The forests though rich are more and more turning into open forests with dense
and moderately dense forest cover reducing, thus affecting the biodiversity and hence the
forest produce. Further, the Darjeeling city and Siliguri city in the Tearia region are seeing
tremensous rise in population which are creatin pressures on existing infrastructure such as
housing, roads, access to drinking water and sanitation.
A view of Darjeeling town from the Tea gardens. Source: Wikepedia
Development in the hill region has been slow. Low developmental paradigms if they continue,
coupled with climate change are likely to have adverse effects on the physical and man made
systems in the region.
Climate change concerns in this district include

o Concerns of water availability in the lean periods
o Heavier soil erosions and land slides with increasing rainfall intensity
o Shifting of agriculture production centres to higher altitudes,
o Lower produce of Darjeeling tea as the climate creating its special aroma changes
o Impact on horticulture produce such as the Darjeeling Mandarin
o Increase in pests and diseases, and emergence of new ones
o Impact on hydropower production due to melting of glaciers
o Impact on forests and its biodiversity, NTFPs including medicinal plants, and typical
orchids
o Impacts on human health as vectors move to higher altitudes and people are
subjected to heat stress , which they have never encountered
o Adverse impacts on human habitats as frequency of extreme rainfall increases and
temperatures rise
The adaptation measures suggested are summarised in Table 6.
Table 6: Adaptation strategies for Darjeeling Himalayan region
Water o Assess water demand by sector for the Darjeelig district in view of
climate change and increase in population in the mid century
o Develop a water policy for the district for augmentation of the resource
as per the requirement and for efficient management
o Create additional reservoirs to store excess runoff water in the monsoon
and water from additional rainfall projected to be received during Oct-
Dec period
o Prepare for combating adverse impacts of projected rise in extreme
precipitation events – land slides, soil erosion
o Prepare monitoring and evaluation plans to check the integration of
climate change concerns in water management
Agriculture o Facilitate agriculture cropping centres to survive at lower latitudes even
at higher temperatures
o Promote Indigenous food crops of the region so as to maintain food
security in a climate change scenario
o Undertake soil conservation and anti slide measures along hilly slopes
growing crops and along roads to avert soil erosion and loss in soil
nutrient
o Promote integrated management of emerging and current pests and
diseases
o Intensify agricultural activities in the Rabi season
Biodiversity o Plan activities to reduce open forest area, enhance quality of moderately
and Forests dense forests and protect dense forests from degrading
o Empower communities living in and around forests to manage forests for
enhancing its quality, for conserving biodiversity, preventing fire and
benefitting through payment for ecosystem services rendered
o Establish long term systematic monitoring of flora and fauna in
Darjeeling Himalayas
o Devise suitable strategies for conservation and facilitating species
migration to adapt to climate change
Darjeeling tea o Avoid shifting of production centre to higher altitudes through
development of cultivars that are thermal resistant and also retain the
special aroma
o Combat adverse impacts of droughts through soil and water
conservation measures and creation of drought resistant cultivars
o Combat excessive soil erosion and land slide due to likely increase in
extreme rain through land cover technologies
o Manage Pests and Diseases via organic route
Horticulture o Enhance quality of dense forests to retain soil moisture and ambient
Medicinal forest moisture that are conducive to the growth of medicinal palnts and
plants, orchidsas well
o Also develop heat resistant crop cultivars
Mandarin
o Facilitate drainage of water during excessive rain
Orange, o Avoid soil erosion
Orchids o Develop cultivars that are thermal resistant to enable flowering and
fruiting in sync with seasonal changes
o Develop and implement packages for Integrated management of pests
and diseases
o Disseminate technology through KVKs
o Prevent fragmentation of forests as they destroy the moss on which the
orchids thrive
Ecotourism o Develop eco-tourism policy for the district with a focus on biodiversity
conservation (see details in the Chapter 12)
Urban habitats o Undertake a detailed assessment of water requirements and availability
and Transport in the future as temperatures rise
o Develop a blue print for addressing the additional energy requirement of
the district in the context of climate change through the renewable
energy route
o Assess the Retrofitting requirements and design for large Hydropower
reservoirs keeping in view the climate change impacts
o Map and treat the erosion prone areas in and around urban habitats
keeping in view the projected extreme rainfall intensity scenario
o Identify and make provisions for supply additional energy needed for
space cooling
o Develop Integrated Transport plan for all the towns of Darjeeling district
with focus on meeting future transport demand GHG mitigation
The Sundarbans, on the other hand lie in the Coastal region of the state. The mangrove
forests of the Sundarbans have been protecting the state from cyclones since time
immemorial. The mangrove forests of the region house very sensitive and rich flora and fauna,
the most famous being the Sundari mangrove trees and the Royal Bengal Tiger. The brackish
waters of Sundarbans are home to rich catch of fish, crustaceans, and mollucs as they are filled
with the nutrients generated by the roots of the mangroves and biomass deposition. The
Sundarbans region has a low human development index, especially because of the
exceptionally high population density, low per capita land holding, low access to potable
water, sanitation, education and health. Further, majority of the population lives off
agriculture, which is not productive due to salinity of the soil, and as there is no industry in
the region. Sea level rise and recurrent cyclones exacerbate the salinity of the soil and also
damage human wealth on a regular basis.
Studies suggest, that in the last two decades, the run off in the eastern rivers of Sundarbans
has decreased leading to higher and higher salinity and greater sea water-sulfate
concentrations. Furthe decrease in fresh water run off, would affect mangrove production.
Continuous submergence in higher water depth due to sea level rise, would lower rates of
photosynthesis and growth, the plants will become shorter and narrower, have fewer
branches and leaves, and more acid-sulfide in their soils. Also sea level rise affecting
availability of sediment would have effect on establishment of new groves. Increased
mangrove growth rates predicted due to increasing atmospheric CO2 may be offset by
decreased growth resulting from changes in tidal regimes.
Faunal species that are tolerant of increasing temperatures (e.g., fish, gastropods, mangrove
crabs and other crustaceans) may adjust rapidly to the changes. In contrast, soft-bodied
animals and bivalve mollusks would be very sensitive to higher temperatures. Desiccation
that would accompany increasing temperatures would harm many marine species associated
with mangroves8. For mangrove-dependent species, however, the most serious consequences
of a changing climate would likely be the loss of habitat as the mangrove forests declined.
Increase in incidences of morbidity and mortality might be registered due to increase

in water borne diseases as water is likely to become un-potable as saline water
spreads inland with increase in sea level rise and increasing intensity of cyclones.
Water logged conditions also might increase incidences of dengue and lead to increase
in malaria vectors and incidences. Similarly increase in intensity of cyclones is likely
to cause more injuries and deaths. Higher temperatures may lower yields which already
are not enough for the burgeoning population of the region. Also with more and more area
getting inundated by cyclones and higher storm surges, salinity in the soil will increase
affecting agriculture further (the recent example being the imoacts during cyclone Aila).
Typical Fauna of SUndarbans
Table 7: Adaptation strategies for Sundarbans

Develop protection against projected increase in cyclone,intensities, sorm surges and higher
sea level
o Undertake a study to generate low , medium and high scenarios of impacts of climate
change on cyclones,storm surges, and sea level rise along the Sundarbans coast, for
2030s, 2050s, and 2080s to enable informed decision making and implementation of
measures towards adaptation.
o Identify the level of tolerance of the various existing mangrove species to the different
levels of projected salinity and flood water depth.
o Identify, the type and density of the mangroves required to act successfully as the 1st
level of defense and accordingly, undertake afforestation through mangrove
plantation.
o Construct/retrofit the embankment along the sea as well as along the rivers based on
8
Kjerfve, B. and Macintosh, D.J. (1997). Climage change impacts on mangrove ecosystems. In “ Mangrove
Ecosystem Studies in Latin America and Africa” (B. Kjerfve, L.D. Lacerda and S. Diop, eds), pp. 1-7. UNESCO,
Paris
the likely return periods and maximum heights of storm surges that can occur
o Based on the studies, scientifically raise the existing houses in vulnerable areas on
stilts based on the level of flood water height likely to ingress in the future. Also
Identify safe areas, and build/strengthen cyclone shelters for people as well as
livestock.
o Mobilise communities to take action rapidly and cyclone proof themselves when early
warnings are sounded by authorities vis a vis moving people and livestock and their
valuables to safer places
o Strengthen communication – roads and telephony
Protect agriculture productivity and livelihoods
o Height and quality of the embank plays a great role in protecting agriculture in the
region from additional salinity in soil due to projections of increasing intensity of
cyclones
o Introduce thermal resistant and salt tolerant rice cultivars which can sustain under
deep water conditions for long period
o Promote commercial level coconut plantations in saline areas
o Promote production of vegetable crops suitable to the region
o Provide market linkages
Promote fisheries as an industry
o Conserve mangroves to extract fish and other crustaceans from the mangroves and
brackish waters
o Promote inland and marine fisheries
o Devise methods for real time mapping of fish catch in marine waters and inland to
guide the fishermen towards these areas
o Formulate a fishery policy for the Sundarbans (inland and marine fisheries) centering
around conservation vis a vis climate change impacts
Enhance accessibility to Drinking water
o Exploit the fresh water availability in the western rivers
o Rain water harvesting and storing in community overhead tanks
o Exploitation of ground water
Enhance accessibility to Health infrastructure
o Bridge the existing health infrastructure and health service delivery gaps
o Communise health service delivery
o Develop tele-medicine facilities
o Develop rapid transportation to hospitals for critically injured – by pressing in
helicopter services
o Develop disaster preparedness to abate disease outbreaks and undertake regular
drills
Conserve biodiversity
o Carry on with the existing biodiversity conservation activities of the Deptt of Forests
and Biodiversity Boards
Cross cutting Issues

Implementing adaptation strategies and mitigation action would mean doing it through a
systematic manner, which would entail
o Devising strategies (policies/programmes/projects/actions) based on informed

decision making i.e based on sound scientific assessments
o Setting up a monitoring and evaluation framework for averting mal adaptation
o Building Institutional Capacity to integrate climate change concerns in planning
o Seeking appropriate financial resources
Towards Informed decision making: For informed decision making the West Bengal
Government intends to set up an Institute for Climate Change. The proposed institution will
undertake scientific research in collaboration with other established institutions and develop
communication to translate climate change information for useful applications by different
stake holders. It will also undertake training to disseminate climate change information for
use in research, for field level implementers of CC actions and to policy makers. The
indicative research areas are but not limited to:
o Atmospheric observations and modelling including climate change modelling,

o Research on land use, land cover and soil and their interface with climate science
o Impacts of climate change on biodiversity and forests and their role in supporting life
forms
o Impact of climate change on hydrology and its sustainable management in the future
o Interaction of climate and health and devising future policies
o Understanding impacts of climate change on agriculture and developing adaptation
models
o Energy studies for enhancing energy efficiency, and exploring use of renewables,
study new renewable energy sources such as tidal energy and its applicability in the
West Bengal context, explore pathways for developing a low C society, explore
mechanisms for earning C credits, do supply and demand side management in
various climate change scenarios etc.
o Socio-economic analysis in conjunction with climate scenarios to ascertain the
requirement of scale of adaptation and adaptation funds.
o Developing policy, programme, and project level MRV frameworks for assessing
impacts of adaptation strategies and mitigation targets, assessing NAMAS and REDD+
opportunities etc.
Setting up monitoring and evaluation framework: Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) of

climate change initiatives will play a key role in measuring the success of the strategies to
adapt to climate change, undertaken by the state in the various sectors, that will be over and
above the measures implemented to achieve its developmental targets. M&E of adaptation
strategies at regular intervals will offer opportunities for course correction in case the M&E
criteria indicate mal-adaptation. The M&E indicators can be set to assess the adaptation
achievement envisaged at the sectoral level, programme level or the project level. However, it
is important to set the criteria in such a way so that it is able to distinguish climate change
adaptation from adaptation due to developmental activities and autonomous adaptation as a
response to climate variability.
M&E in the mitigation sector, however, will directly measure the results set out to be achieved
in term of GHG reduction targets, energy efficiency targets, targets for increasing renewable
energy in total energy mix so on and so forth and also offer opportunities for course
correction if the targets set out to achieved are not being realized.
The M&E for ensuring climate proofing of sectors, programmes and projects can be carried
out by trained staff in a climate change cell which the state will need to establish.
Building institutional capacities to integrate climate change concerns in development:

This would mean developing capacities in institutions to review and hence redesign or bring
in new developmental policies and programmes that would be able to identify the climate
change signals, identifying the likely impacts and hence the vulnerabilities, and insert
strategies into programmes or develop new programmes that would increase the resilience of
the systems and facilitate coping with the adverse impacts of CC. Similarly mitigation
planning would require, an understanding of the long term goals of the UNFCCC, India’s
position, and how India is setting its voluntary targets of reducing energy intensity and hence
GHG emissions in the future. Translation of these global objectives into local state action
would be a challange.
The basic steps towards integrating Climate adaptation into planning at sectoral policy,
programme, project and action level would include:
o Applying a climate lens to identify the relevance of climate change to a policy,
programme, plan or project.
o Interpreting climate data from different standard climate data sources.
o Assessing vulnerability for identifying factors contributing to vulnerability in a
system.
o Identifying adaptation options from a range of adaptation options to adjust or
improve planning and management.
o Selecting adaptation measures by evaluating priorities and prioritize options using
selected criteria.
o Developing an M&E framework for monitoring and evaluation of adaptation options
o Identify institutional capacity requirements for adaptation and Identify institutions
with such capacities, if absent build capacity to deal with adaptation as a continual
change process.
o Assessing local climate stresses, vulnerability, resilience for local information on
climate change vulnerability.
o Implementing action at local level and beyond: Identify action at the local level and
how it links to sub-national, national and other actors and
o Integrating adaptation into the project cycle: Identify key steps to integrate adaptation
according to the various steps of the project cycle.
To build the institutional capacities, it is suggested that other than the establishment of the
Climate change focal point in the Government, each line department, needs to have a climate
change call, which will ensure the application of the climate change lens in all its ongoing and
future programmes. The Climate change cell in each department will liase with the Climate
Change Focal Point for guidance as well as approval of programmes for ensuring climate
proofing.
Seeking finance for adaptation and mitigation: Financing is a key element for a successful
implementation of Adaptation or mitigation strategies. Funds that have been approved for
the 8 missions of the National Action on Climate Change from the Planning Commission, most
likely will remain the key source for adaptation and mitigation funding in India for the
different states. Possibility of availing funds jointly with the central government can be
explored from the Green Climate fund to be operationalised by the UNFCCC for supporting
actions towards low-emission and climate-resilient development. Further, mechanisms can
be developed to institute green tax in the state, on certain sectors (e.g inter state transport,
electricity generation) that are highly fossil fuel intensive, and channelize these funds for
additional mitigation actions. For pilots, funds can be explored through bilateral mechanisms
and for large scale implementation loans from banks including multilateral banks may be
sought.
1. Introduction
As per the 4th Assessment Report of the
Box 1: The IPCC
IPCC, warming of the climate system is
unequivocal and is attributed mainly to During the course of this century the resilience of
anthropogenic activities (Box 1.1). In many ecosystems (their ability to adapt naturally)
the past century, the Earth has warmed is likely to be exceeded by an unprecedented
on an average by 0.76 °C and the rate of combination of change in climate and change in
warming is increasing. According to other global change drivers (especially land use
WMO, the year 2010, was the warmest change and overexploitation), if greenhouse gas
year on record. The Global average emissions and other changes continue at or above
temperature in 2010 was 0.53 degrees current rates. By 2100 ecosystems will be exposed
Celsius above the average level during to atmospheric CO2 levels substantially higher
1961-90, and it is higher than the two than in the past 650,000 years, and global
previous warmest years 1998 and 2005 temperatures at least among the highest of those
in the last decade. experienced in the past 740,000 years. This will
alter the structure, reduce biodiversity and
The sea level is also rising. Global perturb functioning of most ecosystems, and
average sea level rose at an average rate compromise the services they currently provide.
of around 1.7 ± 0.3 mm per year over
1950 to 2009 and as per a satellite- Source: IPCC 4th Assessment Report, The Scientific
measured average rate the rise was Basis of Climate Change, 2007.
about 3.3 ± 0.4 mm per year between
1993 and 2009. Similarly, extreme weather events and their intensities have increased and
regional climate patterns are changing. Climate change models, driven by a variety of socio
economic scenarios project that the global average temperature may rise by 1.8 to 4.0°C by
2100.
At India level, the annual mean temperature of the country for the period 1901-2009, as
whole has risen by 0.56oC (IMD, 2010) and by 2050s the temperature is projected to rise by 2-
4oC (NATCOM, 2004). Further, the MoEF, GOI report focussing on 4 climate sensitive regions of
India (INCCA , 2010), projects that even by 2030’s the annual mean surface air temperature
may rise by 1.7°C to 2.0°C with respect to current climate base line (1960-1990).
Climate change, as some of the studies suggest (NATCOM, 2004; INCCA, 2010), may alter the
distribution and quality of India's natural resources, enhance water insecurity, reduce
agriculture productivity, enhance exposure to extreme weather events, and pose even
unforeseen health risks. This in turn is most likely to adversely affect development of the
economy that is closely linked to the natural resource base. Consequently exposing majority
of its population thriving on climate sensitive livelihoods such as agriculture and forest
products are subjected to great risk.
In view of the requirement of a strategy to adapt to climate change that would ensure and
enhance ecological sustainability and explore solutions towards more efficient technologies,
the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) was formulated and launched by the
Prime minister in June 2008. It has eight missions that focus on
o Enhancing energy efficiency;

o Increasing the penetration of solar photo-voltaics and solar thermal in the total energy
mix;
o Developing climate friendly sustainable habitats;
o A water mission for integrated water resources management;
o A mission on sustainable agriculture for making it more resilient to climate change;
o A green mission for enhancing ecosystem services of forests and for enhancing its C
sequestration capacity;
o A mission on Himalayan ecosystem for sustaining and safeguarding the Himalayan glacier
and mountain ecosystems; and the last mission is aimed towards
o Developing strategic knowledge base to address the concerns of climate change.
For translating national policies into action, especially at sub regional level within India, and
decentralizing NAPCC objectives into local context, a territorial approach is necessary. It is in
this context, it was felt necessary that the states should develop their prioritised action plan
vis a vis their respective climate change concerns under the overarching objectives and
missions of the National Action Plan on Climate Change. This also provides an opportunity for
identifying the risks and opportunities of climate change, mainstreaming the climate change
concerns by introducing low C climate resilient developmental activities in the state and
generate pipeline investment ready initiatives that can be directly adopted
2. The Process of Preparation

Towards the preparation of the State Action Plan for Climate Change, the Government of West
Bengal first organised a scoping workshop on March 15, 2010. The workshop was organised
by the Department of Environment, Government of West Bengal, which is the nodal agency for
climate change matters in the government. The workshop was chaired by the Chief Secretary,
Government of West Bengal. The Chief secretary welcomed the move, as he opined, that
climate change is now staring us in the face, and each and every state in India needs to design
strategies to mainstream climate change concerns in its planning and implementation of
various developmental programmes to adapt to the adverse impacts of climate change.
All concerned line departments of the Government of West Bengal, the research community,
and the non Governmental organisations participated in the workshop. Additionally, external
agencies like DFID, GIZ, and the World Bank were invited, who shared with the audience their
experiences and lessons learnt from the various climate change projects being undertaken by
them in the state in collaboration with the government of West Bengal.
Presentations were also made by, Principal Secretaries of Department of Power; Department
of Sundarban Affairs, Department of Science and Technology; Managing Director, West Bengal
Green Energy Development Corporation, Joint Secreatry, Panchayati Raj highlighting the
concerns of climate change in their respective areas. Shri Mr. Debal Ray, Chief Environment
Officer, Department of Environment, who is also focal point, climate change, made a
presentation to apprise the audience about the general scientific basis of climate change, the
various projects that the government is doing on climate change in collaboration with some of
the bi-lateral's, the different policies that the West Bengal government has so far adopted
towards addressing climate change concerns. Finally he concluded his presentation with the
steps that need to be taken to start the preparation of the State Climate Change Action Plan:
 Constitution of drafting committee

 Identification of state plan components
 Constitution of sector wise working groups comprising of line departments and
experts
 Review of published literature
 Consultation with those involvement in drafting of State Action Plan / National Action
Plan
 Identification of the strategies and studies to be carried out
 Finalizing of implementation mechanism.
 Synthesising the sectoral plans into Sate Action Plan
Following the workshop, the notification for the steering committee and the drafting
committee was published on 12th April, 2010 and signed by the Governor of West Bengal (see
Annexure A for the notification) and the list of members of the Steering commitee and
Drafting Committee.
Next a meeting of the drafting committee was held to deliberate upon the sectors that need to
be considered vis a vis their vulnerability to climate change. It was agreed by the members
that the sectors thrust areas of State Action Plan should match as closely as possible to the 8
national missions and 24 other critical initiatives. Further it was also pointed out that some
specific areas of vulnerabilities of West Bengal like Darjeeling Himalayas and Sundarbans
should also be properly addressed. After thorough discussion, following sectors areas were
identified for State Action Plan
o Water
o Agriculture, Horticulture, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry
o Health
o Forestry
o Energy Efficiency
o Non conventional Energy Sources
o Sundarban's
o Darjeeling Himalayas
o Habitat
o Institute for climate change studies.
Formation of sectoral committee's for preparation of plans relating to each of the above
sectors were discussed. It was decided that the departmental representatives in the drafting
committee would take a leading role in formation of the sectoral committees and preparation
of sectoral plans.
There after the notification for the formation of the sectoral committe's were published in
December 2010 (see Annexure B ) on Sundarbans and Energy efficiency on 16th and 24th Dec
2010. respectively. The committee's on Agriculture, water, health, habitats, institute for
climate change, Darjeeling Himalays have been also constituted and brought out
subsequently. The resolutions for which have also been passed.
A workshop was organised on 14th feb 2011, in the nature of orientation for the different
working groups on NAPCC, guidelines for SAPCC, the vulnerability of the agriculture sector in
West Bengal etc. A set of resource persons guided the participants to undertake in depth
sectoral analysis where by they were able to identify key priorities and formulate adaptation
strategies. The resource persons in these workshops were nationally recognised sectoral
experts, who were also available for guidance towards prioritisation of strategies and
development of the action plan. The outcome of this workshop lead to the formulation of the
outline of the working papers.
Further, extensive consultations within the working group members and other concerned
stake holders carried out. Based on these steps, the sectoral papers were drafted, by the
members of the working groups, which formed the basis of the SAPCC. The sectoral papers,
focussed on identification of sectoral concerns due to climate change, did a review of ongoing
programmes in these sectors which are also towards climate proofing and the institutional
mechanism through which these programmes are implemented. identified the strategies for
climate proofing the concerns and identified the implementable actions on the 12th and 13th
plan. The papers also made an assessment of the cost of implementation of these actions at
today's prices. The contents of the sectoral papers were transposed in line with the
framework of the SAPCC provided by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. Next the draft
SAPCC was circulated amongst all stakeholders for their comments.
The SAPCC was presented to the steering committee on 12th April, 2010. It has approved 6
sectors and those are being presented to the MoEF in the 1st phase by 25h April, 2011. The
rest of the chapters on Habitats, Sundarbans and Darjeeling Himalayas have now been
completed and included in this 2nd version.
Figure 2.1: Steps of Preparation of WB-SAPCC
Steering Committee
Drafting Committee
Sectoral Committee Sectoral Committee Sectoral Committee Sectoral Committee

Darjeeling Himalays Sundarbans Water Agriculture
Sectoral Committee Sectoral Committee Sectoral Committee Sectoral Committee Sectoral Committee
Health Energy Efficiency Renewable energy Forestry Institute for CC
Orientation and facilitation workshop

with sectoral resource persons
Drafting outline of the papers
Drafting of the background papers
Transposing background paper in

the SAPCC outline
Draft SAPCC Circulated amongst

stakeholders for comments
Finalisation of SAPCC and

submission to MoEF
3. West Bengal State Profile

Physiography
The State of West Bengal is situated in the eastern part of the country between 21 o20' and
27o32' N latitude and 85o50' and 89o52' E longitude. The total area of the state is 88,752 sq km
which is 2.7% of the total area in the country. The state has two distinct natural divisions -
the Northern Himalayan region and the Southern Alluvial plains. In the north three main
rivers, anmely, Teesta, Torsa, and Jaldhak flow which are tributaries of Bramhaputrs. The
other two important rivers pasing through the state are Ganga and Hooghly. The Ganga drains
into the Bay of Bengal forming the famous delta of Indian sundarbans.
The state has many shallow marshy depressions which are the relatively unfilled parts of
ancient topographic formations. These are subjected to annual inundation during the
monsoon months, having in many
instances permanent wetlands in their
shallowest parts. In addition to all these,
there are many types of landforms flanking
the northern Himalayan mountain as also
the western Deccan plateau within West
Bengal which had developed originally by
the sediments brought by rivers in the
ancient geological periods. Many of these
are now suffering from erosion.
On a physiographic basis the state can be

divided into four physiographic divisions,
namely, the Himalayan Region; Eastern
fringe of Chotanagpur Plateau; the Deltaic
Zone and the Alluvial Plains Remaining
areas of the State.
The State has international borders with

Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan while it
shares national States boundaries with
Sikkim, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand and
Orissa. In its south lies the Bay of Bengal.
West Bengal has 19 districts (see figure
along side). On the basis of distribution of
climate and soil, the agricultural feasibility of the state is harnessed from 6 distinct agro-
climatic zones, and they are the
 Hill region: Covering the districts of Darjeeling district, Coochbehar and Jalpaiguri
 Old Alluvial Zone: Comprising of North Dinajpur, South Dinajpur and Malda
 New Alluvial Zone: Covering Table 3.1: Key features of the state
Murshidabad, Nadia, 24 N. Parganas,
Hooghly and Burdawan a Geographical Area 88,752 sq. km.
 Red and Laterite zone: Covering the Number of Districts 19
districst of Birbhum, Bankura, Purulia,
Number of Blocks 341
West Medinipur;
Population 91.35 million*
 Saline Coastal region: Covering East
Medinipur, Hooghly, 24 South Parganas, Rural Population 65,5 million**
Kolkata Urban Population 25.8 million**
Population Density 1029 per sq. km*
Climate Per capita agriculture land Less than 1 ha***
The climate of the State is tropical and humid holding (about 0.64ha)
except in the northern hilly region which is
Fertility rates 1.9, 2.1 as of 2007***
close to the Himalayans. The temperature in
Birth rates- rural, urban 19.4, 12.4 per thousand
the mainland normally varies between 24°C
to 40°C during summer and 7°C to 26°C (2001 census)
during the winter. The average rainfall in Death rates - rural, Urban 6.1, 6.6 per thousand***
the State is about 1750 mm with (2001 census)
considerable variation among the districts Infant mortality rates 37, 29 per thousand***
ranging between 1234 mm in Birbhum to
(2001 census)
4136 mm in Jalpaiguri.
Normal Annual Rainfall 1,234 - 4,136 mm.
Cultivable Area 56.84 lakh ha
Demography
Net Sown Area 54.65 lakh ha***
The estimated population of West Bengal in Net Cropped Area 52.56 lakh ha. ***
2009 was 87.8 million and has become 91.3 Cropping intensity 181% ***
million as per the latest Census of India Area under Forest 11897 sq km****
carried out in 2011. The decadal growth rate
Surface Water Resources 132.90 lakh ha. m*****
for the period 2001-2011 has been 13.93%
Annual Replenishable 30.36 lakh ha. m.
which has decreased from 17.77% estimated
for the period 1991-2001.North twenty four Ground Water
Pargana's has the highest population of 8.9 Ultimate Irrigation 70.00 lakh ha.
million and the most dense is the population Potential
in Kolkata with 24252 people/sq km Total Flood Prone Area 37,660 sq. km.
(Source:http://censusindia.gov.in/2011-
Coastal Length 280 km.
prov-results/prov_data_products_wb. html,
http://www.westbengalforest. gov Sources: *Census, 2011, **estimated for 2011, using
.in/publication_pdf /StateForestReport_ 2001 ratio, ***WB economic review 2009-2010,
2008-2009.p.pdf). The Sex Ratio of the State **** State of forest report, 2008-2009, ****Irrigation
stood at 934 in 2001 as against 933 at Deptt.
national level. The Sex Ratio in West Bengal had been steadily increasing during last five
decades after Independence whereas at national level it registered a decreasing trend during
this period. The rural and urban population, is
Water Resources
West Bengal is endowed with 7.5 per cent of the water resource of the country. Main source of
water in West Bengal is rain fall, the annual average receipt of which is around 1762mm. Of
this 76% is received in the monsoon months and the rest in the non monsoon period. 21% of
the rain fall infiltrates through the soils and recharges the ground water and 49% goes back to
the atmosphere as evapo-transpiration. The net annual water resource generated from
rainfall in West Bengal amounts to 51.02 bcm (WBPCB, 2009). About 60% of the water
resource is available in the North and South Bengal has 40% of the resources. The
replenishable ground water resources including natural discharge is 34.20 bcm of which 31%
is in north Bengal and 69% in South Bengal. The state receives 598.56 bcm of trans boundary
water from neighbouring states. The Ganga carries 525 bcm of water from its large catchment
covering 26% of the Indian geographical area.
The climate and physiography of the state supports a huge diversity of life forms. Covering
just 2.7% of the Indian landmass it is home to 12.27% of Indian biodiversity known till date.
The state has more than 7000 species of described flora including bacteria, algae, fungi,
bryophytes, pteridophytes and angiosperms and more than 10,000 species of described fauna.
The forests of West Bengal are classified into seven categories viz., Tropical Semi-Evergreen
Forest, Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest, Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest, Littoral and Swampy
Forest, Sub-Tropical Hill Forest, Eastern Himalayan Wet Temperate Forest and Alpine Forest.
The state has a recorded forest land of 11,879 sq. km., of which 7,054 sq. km. is Reserved
Forest, 3,772 sq. km. is Protected Forest and 1,053 sq. km. is Unclassified State Forest, thus
constituting 13.38% of the geographical area of the state. Under the conservation and
protection regime the State has one Biosphere Reserve, two Tiger Reserves, five National
Parks and 15 Wildlife Sanctuaries.
Economy
As of 2008-2009, the Net State Domestic Product (NSDP) of the climate dependent sectors
namely, agriculture including animal husbandry and horticulture, forestry and fisheries
together was 22.11% of the total NSDP at Constant 1999-00 Prices, that is a quarter of the
total NSDP of the state of West Bengal which is generated by 70% of its total population,
mainly rural. Of the total rural workers, 19.53% and 19.30% are cultivators and agricultural
labourers, respectively, while 4.72 percent are engaged in household industries. According to
the Planning Commission, 31.85% of the total population lived below poverty line in 1999-
2000. The detailed NSDP of the sate by sector is presented in Table 3.2
Table 3.2: Estimates of Net State Domestic Product in Crores by Industry of Origin at Constant
1999-00 Prices
Source: Bureau of Applied Economics & Statistics, Govt. of West Bengal.

4. Observed Changes in Climate and Climate Projections

Observed Climate
Temperature: Data used for this analysis includes the IMD gridded maximum and minimum
temperature at 1o spatial resolution for the time period 1969-2005 (37 years). According to
the observations during this period, the maximum temperatures are decreasing across the
state whereas the minimum temperatures are increasing (Figure 4.1). The maximum
temperature has decreased by -0.5oC with respect to starting of the observation period
(1970s) in the New Alluvial zone, the laterite zone and the Saline coastal zone. In the Hilly,
Terai and the old alluvial zone, the maximum temperature has also decreased but by only -
0.25oC. Whereas the minimum temperatures are increasing all across the state. In the laterite
zone, the minimum temperature has increased by 0.5 oC, in the Hilly, Terai and the old Alluvial
zone, the temperatures have increased by 1.5 oC and in the new alluvial zone and the coastal
zone the minimum temperatures have increased by 1oC.
Observed changes in Precipitation: There is high spatial variation in changes observed in

rainfall between 1971-2005 (See Figure 4.2). There is a clear increasing trend in observed
rainfall in the northern region above Birbhum upto Darjeeling Himalayas and in the
Sundarban region. No changes are observed in some pockets in the eastern Himalayan region
that falls within Coochbihar and in the southern region below Dakshin dinajpur and in in
Southern Purulia and in the South Medinipur areas. The postmosoon rainfall shows an
increase almost all over West Bengal except in the eastern Himalayan region in the state, in
North Dinajpur and in Western Purulia. In the winter period in Jan and Feb, there is a general
decrease in rain fall in the Southern region of the state, with no change in parts of Medinipur
and in Darjeeling Himalayas. In the March to April period, there is an increase in precipitation
in central part of the Southern region of West Bengal covering Burdawan, Bankura, parts of
Medinipur and Sundarban areas. No change is observed in the eastern parts of Sundarbans,
and distinct decrease in Murshidabad, Birbhum and Nadia.
Figure 4.2: Observed changes in precipitation between 1971-2005.
Onset of Monsoon: The maximum delay in onset of monsoon is 11 and 7 days over Andaman
& Nicobar Islands during 1941 – 1970 and 1971 – 2000 respectively. For India as a whole, the
commencement of onset starts from Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The mean withdrawal dates
are found to be later than the existing normal, in both the 30 years slot of 1941 – 1970 and
1971 – 2000, by about one to one and a half week. A general late onset, as concluded earlier
coupled with late withdrawal suggests a shift in the monsoon activity.
Cyclones and Storm surges: Long term observations between 1900-2008 show an increasing
trend in the frequency of tropical cyclonic storms (48-63 kts or 88-117 kmph) as well as
formation of severe cyclonic storms (64-90 kts or 118-167 kmph) in the Bay of Bengal during
the period 1900-2008 (figure 4.3). Further, Storm surges form when heavy winds produced
by tropical cyclones generate the disturbances in the ocean. As these surges propagate into
the shallow regions, they amplify and produce large variations of sea level at the coast. The
height of the storm surge depends on wind speed, the shape of the coastline, and variations in
the water depth along the coastline. Height also depends on phase of the tide. If a surge occurs
during high tide, the storm surge will be higher than if it occurs during low tide. Category 5
tropical cyclones can produce storm surges in excess of 6m (20 feet). Because the storm surge
occurs ahead of the eye of the storm, the surge will reach coastal areas long before the cyclone
makes landfall.
Figure 4.3: Increasing trends of severed cyclonic storm over the region of Bay of Bengal
Source: IMD, 2010
Mean Sea Level rise: The average sea level rise has been 1.3 mm per year along the Indian
coast, however, tide gauge observations at the diamond harbor port indicate a sea level rise of
5.7 mm, which can be attributed to subsidence in the region at the rate of 4mm per year
(INCCA, 2010).
Presently the State is facing inadequate and erratic rainfall in successive years mainly in South
Bengal Districts. Further, more than 80% of annual precipitation occurs during monsoon and
that too erratically in respect of time and space causing drought like situations in summer and
flood during monsoons. The onset of monsoon is delayed. There is an overall warming with
minimum temperatures increasing faster than the maximum temperatures. Cyclone frequency
of severe cyclonic storms is increasing over Bay of Bengal and the sea level is rising globally,
however, the level of rise is higher across coast line of West Bengal, mostly due to subsidense
of the land mass near the coast and also may be due to devlopmental activities, leading to
submergence of islnads in the eastern region of the coast.
Increased population and immense pressure on land compels the State for judicious use of
water resources which becomes very scarce in non-monsoon months. Due to non-availability
of adequate surface water resources in non-monsoon months and degradation of many of the
surface water bodies due to siltation, dependence on ground water for drinking as well as for
irrigation are rapidly increasing with results in consequent depletion of ground water level.
So, creation of additional storage and demand side management are dual challenges of
present water management.
Climate Change Projections

Climate projections for 2050s and 2100 have been derived from PRECIS (Providing Regional
Climate for Impact Studies) is the Hadley Centre portable regional climate model, developed
to run on a PC with a grid resolution of 0.44° x 0.44°. PRECIS simulation datasets is provided
by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune. The climate change scenarios are driven
by the GHG emission scenarios -IPCC A1B which assumes a future world of very rapid
economic growth, a global population that peaks in mid-century and declines thereafter, and
assumes rapid introduction of new and more efficient technologies.
Rainfall: Projections of rain fall in West Bengal for mid century (2050s) indicates that there is
a decrease in winter rain fall in the coastal zone and the lower part of the new alluvial zone,
and no change is indicated in the rest of the zones, except that again a decrease in precipiation
is observed in the eastern part of the terai zone. In the monsoon period, in 2050s, an increase
in precipitation is projected for all the regions, except for the eastern part of the coastal region
and western part of the red and laterite region (Figure 4.4, upper panel). In 2100, however,
significant increase in precipitation is observed in winters in the terai, hill and the new
alluvial zone, with the lower zones receiving a slightly more rainfall with respect to base line.
Temperature: As regards temperature, in 2050s, the average daily maximum and minimum
temperatures are both projected to rise by 2.2oC in 2050s and by 2100, the temperatures are
likely to rise by 3.6 to greater than 5oC celcius with respect to the base line i.e 1960-1990 (see
Figure 4.5).
post monsoon season in West Bengal 2050s (upper panel) and in 2100 (lower panel)
panel)
5. Water Resources
Introduction
Extending from the Himalayas in the North to the Bay of Bengal in the south, West Bengal
offers wide topographic diversity and intricate drainage network of 22 basins (see figure
5.1a). Monson rainfall is the mainstay of water in these basins, though some part of the water
in these basins also come to the state from transnational locations such as Nepal and Bhutan
and across interstate borders via Ganga , Teesat and through tributaries of Brahmaputra.
(a) (b)
There are two hubs in West Bengal, namely, North Bengal and South Bengal divided by river
Ganga that receive distinctly variable rainfall. The rainfall intensity in North Bengal extending
from Darjeeling in the north to Maldah district in the south, varies between 25.51 mm/day to
greater than 44.51 mm/day. In the southern region, the rain fall intensity varies between
25.51 mm/day to less than 21.51 mm/ day (see Figure 5.1b). About 60% of the surface water
and 28% of the ground water in West Bengal is available to North Bengal that supports only
18% of the population of the region. Where as 82% of the population residing in South Bengal
depends only on 40% of the surface water and extracts 78% of the total ground water for its
needs.
Table 5.1: Water resources in different districts of West Bengal
Monsoon Non Surface Ground Trans Per capita

rain fall monsoon water water boundary water
(mm) rainfall (BCM) (BCM) water availability
(mm) (BCM) as of 2001
CM/ capita
Darjeeling 2224.0 527.8 5.78 0.52 16.25 3945.32
Jalpaiguri 2471.3 604.8 11.30 2.64 32.56 4130.27
Koch Bihar 2604.0 667.6 6.42 2.32 44.18 3552.65
Uttar Dinajpur 1902.3 504.6 3.31 1.68 16.86 2059.38
Dakshin Dinajpur 1469.9 458.4 1.55 0.95 18.64 1676.0
Maldah 1307.7 407.1 2.14 1.40 553.21 1084.15
Murshidabad 1167.4 385.6 0.54 2.52 561.88 525.63
Birbhum 1143.0 384.3 1.46 1.67 4.50 1047.02
Nadia 1175.3 432.2 -0.27 2.17 48.25 415.8
Bardhaman 1174.0 425.6 1.84 3.34 45.54 757.02
Bankura 1159.7 387.5 2.06 2.09 13.35 1309.8
Purulia 1163.0 344.3 3.68 0.77 9.69 1767.9
Paschim Medinipur 1218.9 441.9 2.36 3.82 3.61 1199.1
Purba Medinipur 1240.3 457.6 3.27 0.83 76.68 820.5
Haora 1240.5 451.2 0.96 0.37 67.36 313.6
Hugli 1208.2 441.4 0.59 1.70 65.28 457.6
Kolkata 1245.9 454.7 0.25 0.00 50.07 55.0
North 24 Parganas 1231.0 452.3 1.91 1.58 50.33 393.6
South 24 Parganas 1266.7 461.9 1.86 3.84 81.03 831.6
TOTAL9 51.01 34.21 1759.27
Key:
Water sufficient : Water Stress: Water scarcity: Severe scarcity: Districts experiencing
>1600 1000-1600 500-1000 <500 cu annual water deficit with
cum/capita cum/capita cum/capita m/capita respect to total average
receipt of rain fall
Source: Water Resources and its Quality in West Bengal, Status of Environment Report, West
Bengal Pollution Control Board, 2009 (WBPCB, 2009).
9
The totals for the surface water and ground water resources stated here as per WBPCB (2009) are at
variance with the estimates indicated by the irrigation department in its 1987 estimates (Report of
Expert Committee on Irrigation, 1987), as in this estimate only 75% of the average rain fall has been
considered as assured availability keeping in view the uncertainties in the average annual rain fall over
the years as against the total average rain fall considered in the earlier estimate.
demand which is dominating now may reduce over the years because as improved use of
water and water conservation technologies may be practiced more and more in agriculture.
The water demand in the forest sector is directly proportion to receipt of rain fall in forest
areas. The present 14% of area under forest cover needs to ideally expand to 30% of the total
area. Assuming that West Bengal will be able to achieve this target by 2051, the water demand
for the forest sector is also likely to increase.
2001 2051
(Source: WBPCB, 2009)
The census carried out in 2001 and the investigations of SWID (SWID,2001), has revealed that
91.4% of rural households and 41.2% of urban households rely on underground water in
West Bengal. One in 5 rural households have to travel to more than 1/2 a km to access
drinking water. one in 3 households in urban West Bengal do not have access to direct water
supply. Currently, the districts of Bardhaman, Hugli, Purba Medinipur, and Haora, the rice
bowl of West Bengal, experience an annual deficit of water availability for agriculture with
respect to average rainfall receipt of these districts.
Extreme events
Floods: About 42% of the state area is flood prone (see figure 5.3a) and is manifested across
the state by various modes. Floods can be due to excess water carried over from transnational
and inter state borders. For example, floods are caused in north Bengal, by flood waters
received through rivers Teesta, Torsa, Jaldhaka, Raidak from Sikkim and Bhutan. In Uttar and
Dakshin Dinajpur by flood waters in rivers passing through these two districts and originating
in Bangladesh. In Malda by flood waters received through Mahananda from Nepal, and
through Ganga which carries flood water from about 11 States in India.
Extreme rainfall, relating to late monsoon cloud bursts also lead to floods here. The
infrastructures such as roads and railways with inadequate culverts intercept cause
expansion of floods. Poor drainage is also a cause due which the flood spreads. Case in point
is the city of Kolkata, where a recent study (World Bank, 2010) has indicated that the
situation in the city of Kolkata is critical, due to inadequate infrastructure, unplanned land-
use, poor socio-economic and environmental conditions, and the inadequacy of the drainage
capacity of the sewerage systems. These have been further aggravated by inadequate
maintenance as well as the siltation of the existing trunk sewer systems that have
considerably reduced their carrying capacity. While the sewer networks in KMC under such
partially silted condition still provide reasonable hydraulic capacity for carrying the dry
weather flow, they prove highly inadequate for carrying the storm weather flow even with
normal precipitation during the rainy season.
Also floods are caused by storm surges resulting from cyclones and sea level rise. The recent
damages caused by the Cyclone Aila, has established, that the southern Coastal region of West
Bengal, covering the southern part of South 24 Pargana district, is extremely vulnerable to
storm surges and cyclones. The soil in this region has become saline due to this event even
upto a distance of 40 km from Kolkata and drinking water became contaminated with sea
water. Additionally, the sea level rising in some areas of the coast at a much higher rate than
the others is also a cause of inundation.
(a) (b)
Source: WBPCB, 2009
Droughts: Every summer many parts of Purulia, Bankura, Paschim Medinipur, and Birbhum
(covering the south-western part of the state) suffer water shortage with respect to the entire
state (Figure 5.3 b). The tradition of storage of water in ponds has slowly being forgotten. The
governments efforts to supply water for drinking and irrigation is dependent on the
reservoirs of Damodar valley Project, namely, Massanjore and Kansaboti. The storage capacity
of these reservoirs have reduced over the years, mainly due to siltation rendering the region
bereft of adequate water during summers. Also introduction of water intensive crops in the
region, has lead to higher crop failures making the region and its people vulnerable. In 2010,
the monsoon was weak over West Bengal, though it was strong all over India. These are such
events, which the government need to be adequately prepared for in the future.
Landslides: Incessant rains and at times cyclones lead to land slides in North Bengal. Case in
point is the impact of the latest super cyclone Aila in 2009. Water supply in these regions was
affected severly during this event.
Water Pollution
The increasing exploitation of ground water exceeding replenishable limits has been causing
irreparable damage and leading to arsenic and fluoride contamination in the eastern and
western parts of West Bengal respectively (see figure 5.4 a and b) . The arsenic in ground
water is spread over 81 blocks belonging to eight districts (Govt. of WB,2007) and about 225
villages in 43 blocks of 7 districts have been found to contain fluoride in ground water.
Depletion of ground water is causing desiccation of rivers during non monsoon months, as the
capacity for effluent seepage towards the river is reduced. Over dependence on ground water
has lead to the decay of tradition of practicing lift irrigation. Further, inundation of land by sea
water is causing salinity of water for drinking as well as agriculture.
(a) (b)
Source : WBPCB, 2009
Institutions Involved in Water Sector Service Delivery
Irrigation & Waterways Department: Harnesses surface water resources of the State through
all forms of interception and facilitates the utilization of the same for different purposes.
Looks after water resource management of all the river basins of the State other than
Damodar.
Damodar Valley Corporation(DVC): DVC has a network of four dams - Tilaiya and Maithon
on river Barakar, Panchet on river Damodar and Konar on river Konar. DVC dams are capable
of moderating floods does water resource management to meet industrial, municipal and
domestic requirements in West Bengal & Jharkhand. Also supplies irrigation water to the
districts of Burdwan, Bankura & Hoogly. also supplies water for irrigation in upper valley
through lift irrigation with the water available from check dams constructed by DVC.
Water Resource Investigation & Development Department: Water Resources Development

Directorate is concerned with the implementation of minor irrigation schemes and State
Water Investigation Directorate is concerned with the investigation of Ground water
resources.
Public Health Engineering Department, Govt. of West Bengal: Public Health Engineering
Department undertakes programmes of implementation of water supply and sanitation
services.
Sundarban Development Board: Is entrusted with the development of the Sundarbans and in
effect also develops water related infrastructure to meet water demand
Municipal Affairs Department, Govt. of West Bengal: Municipal Water Supply & Sanitation in
Urban Areas.
West Bengal Pollution Control Board: Implementation of the provisions of Water Act, 1974
(Prevention and Control of Pollution).
Commerce & Industry Department, Govt. of West Bengal: Manages use of Industrial Water.
Current Programmes and Projects of the Government
To meet the water demand of different sectors and to arrest floods and water pollution issues,
various policies and programmes and hence projects have been taken up by the government,
which either flow directly from the central government policies and schemes or are state
specific policies.
Irrigation Department: The irrigation and water resources department along with Damodar
valley Corporation manages major irrigation projects. The irrigation department also
develops and manages medium irrigation projects along with flood management works.
Major Irrigation Projects:

 Mayurakshi reservoir Project: Has an irrigation potential of 2,50,860 ha. Covers the
districts of Birbhum, Murshidabad, and Bardhaman.
 Damodar Valley project: Has an irrigation potential of 4,83,500 ha with ultimate irrigation
potential of 5,10,110 ha. Moderates floods of 6.51 lac cusec to 2.5 lac cusecs in addition to
providing water for irrigation, industrial, municipal and domestic requirements in West in
the districts of Burdwan, Bankura & Hoogly. 30,000 ha of land in the upper valley is being
irrigated, every year by lift irrigation with the water available from 16,000 (approx) check
dams constructed by DVC.
 Kangsabati Reservoir Project: Has an irrigation potential of 3,48,477 ha. Covers the
Districts of Bankura, Midnapore and Hooghly.
 Midnapore Canal: Irrigates 49,879 ha. Derives water from River Kangsabati and extends
from Mohanpur to Uluberia on river Hoogli
 Teesta Barrage Project: The Phase I has started. By the end of Phase III, it will have 9.22
lakh ha of irrigation potential. Will cover 6 districts,namely, Cooch Bihar, Jalpaiguri
Darjeeling, Uttar Dinajpur, Dakshin Dinajpur, and Malda. Will also produce Hydropower
for the state, in addition to providing water for agriculture, drinking water and industry.
 Subarnarekha Barrage Project: Envisages construction of a barrage across the
Subarnarekha downstream of Chandil dam and Galudih barrage near Bhosraghat to
irrigate 1,14,200 ha annually in the Medinipur district of West Bengal through a left bank
canal and its distribution system covering a culturable command area of 96,860 ha.
Medium irrigation projects - completes and ongoing :

 Bankura: Berai Canal irrigation scheme (3.63 '000 ha)10 and Suvankar Danra irrigation
scheme ( 2. 43 '000 ha), Sali Diversion (2.27 '000 ha),
 Bardhaman: Jangal Mahal gravity irrigation (5.27 '000 ha)
 Birbhum: Hinglow irrigation scheme (12.38 '000 ha)
 Midnapore: Ranichak pump irrigation scheme (1.25 '000 ha)
 Purulia irigation schemes: Bandhu (2.43 '000ha), Kumari (3.63 '000ha), Saharajore (6.00
'000 ha), Turga (0.86 '000ha), Taragonia (1.07 '000ha), Dimu (0.47 '000ha), Barabhum
(2.73 '000 ha), Ramchandrapur (2.56 '000 ha), Extension of Bandhu (0.53 '000 ha), Beko
(1.59 '000 ha), Lipaniajore (1.59 '000 ha), Futiary (1.20 '000 ha), Paltoi (2.16 '000 ha),
Kaira Beria (0.57 '000 ha), Golamarajore (1.00 '000 ha), Karrior (0.51 '000 ha), Tatko
(2.48 '000 ha), Moutorejore (1.08 '000 ha), Parga (0.92 '000 ha)
Flood management: Is being carried out by the Irrigation Department through building of
embankments to prevent saline ingress in the Sundarban areas through tidal waters and also
at other parts of West Bengal to prevent flood waters from damaging agriculture areas such as
in North Bengal along Teesta, Raidhak, Ganga, Jaldhak, Ajay rivers and renvation and
remodeling of embankments along the Mayurakshi-Bhagirathi system and along Kangsabati
river system. It excavates new drainage channels and enhances the drainage capacities
existing channels of various river systems and also drainage of Kolkta. The Department aso
regularly undertakes anti river erosion and anti sea erosion works.
Public Health and Engineering Departments: It is in charge of Rural Water supply, Urban
water supply in non KMD municipalities, improvement of water quality standards vis a vis
various types of pollutants infiltrating ground water that is used for drinking (arsenic,
fluoride, and saline infiltration) and providing water for drinking during disasters.
10
The irrigation potential of the medium irrigation projects are indicated in brackets
 As of March 2010, 36.66% of the rural population has been connected to piped drinking
water, through 93732 direct connections. Other than this in the rural areas, the PHE
department maintains 518210 number of tube wells for drinking water and about 94
public water schemes have been instituted by PHE with the help of Zila Parishads in 13
districts in West Bengal.
 As of March 2010, 85 municipalities and 88.7% of the non KMD urban population (i.e
population of urban centres other than Kolkata) have been covered under municipal
water supply schemes. Under the Accelerated Urban Water supply Programme, a scheme
supported by the centre and the state together, about 25 municipalities have been
targeted, of which 12 municipalities have been fully covered as of March 2009. At present,
major augmentation have been taken up in Kulti, Jamuria, Siliguri and Raniganj
municipalities.
 Steps have been taken to supply arsenic free potable drinking water in all the arsenic
affected and surrounding villages under the “Bharat Nirman” programme by the year end
2011. The action plan envisages 349 Piped Water Supply Schemes to cover 3413 villages
and 16.6 million population. beyond permissible limit.
 Presently, a programme of testing of all the tubewells for fluoride contamination in

identified blocks is being carried out under Joint Plan of Action with UNICEF. A Master
Plan for coverage of all the fluoride affected habitations is under preparation.
 The ground water in coastal area in southern part of the state is saline in nature. The
ground water is supplied here from non saline aquifers and sometime by drawing water
from non saline area through pipelines. Pond based water supply arrangement with
proper treatment is also being encouraged. Membrane based desalination plant has also
been installed in one area of North 24 Parganas District. PHE Department had taken up
262 rural piped water supply schemes in the saline belt of North 24 Parganas, South 24
Parganas, Purba Medinipur and Howrah Districts. 238 of them have been commissioned
up to March 2009.
 Disaster recovery services are provided by PHE, by providing access to safe drinking
water to the disaster affected population. It has distrubted safe water to population
affected by floods in neighbouring state of Bihar in Purniya, and in North and south 24
Parganas to population affected by Cyclone Aila in 2009 and has restored tube wells and
pump houses destroyed by Aila. Heavy landslides in Darjeeling due to heavy rains and
strong winds during Aila, damaged the conduit systems of springs and Jhoras, which also
have been restored by The PHE. (All Information source for PHE is http://www.wbphed.gov.in)
Water Investigation & Development

Department: Due to rampant extraction
of ground water to meet the needs of
water intensive agriculture being
practiced, the ground water has depleted
in many areas in West Bengal (see Figure
5.5). Through the West Bengal Ground
Water Resources Management, Control
And Regulation Act (2005), the
department is now in its initial stages of
developing systems to manage, control
and regulate indiscriminate extraction of
groundwater in West Bengal, develop
solutions towards controlling widespread
contamination of water, devise methods to
conserve the ground water resources by
way of recharging, replenishing, recycling
or reusing, in a co-ordinated manner, and
encourage modern technologies and age-
old practices of water harvesting and
recharge to ensure ground water
availability . It aims to continuously Figure 5.5: Critical, semi critical and safe ground
analyse, study and review the physical, water blocks of West Bengal
chemical, bacteriological, and virological Source: WBPCB, 2009
qualities of ground water and devise and
implement pragmatic strategies. The Department operates through the State Water
Investigation and Development Directorate (SWID) and District Level Authorities and the
Corporation Level Authorities. The Water Resources Investigation & Development
Department did the 4th Minor irrigation Census in 2006-2007in order to assess the actual
number of minor irrigation structures and the irrigation potential created and utilized which
in turn will also help for further planning in this sector. The final report is awaited.
Municipal Affairs Department, Govt. of West Bengal: It maintains Municipal Water Supply &
Sanitation in Urban Areas. Some of the programmes, like the Employment Generation
Programme (EGP) for the urban poor, it undertakes works on Water supply, Drainage, Canals
and river banks, and Preservation of water bodies. Through the National Slum Development
Programme (NSDP), it has created 4,51,905 meters of drinking water pipeline, 837588
meters of drains, 63462 meters of underground sewerage drains, and installed 6504 water
taps, and dug 5403 and 212 number of shallow and deep tubewells
(http://www.wbdma.gov.in/htm/MUNI_NSDP.htm). Under the JNNURM programme, it also
aims at laying piplines for water supply and create drainage systems in urban slums of the
Mission cities of Kokata Metropoitan development Area (KMDA) and in Asansol through the
provision of providing basic services to Urban poor. The non mission cities will also
West Bengal Pollution Control Board: Through the provisions of Water Act, 1974
(Prevention and Control of Pollution), the WBPCB regularly monitors water quality of rivers,
such as Hooghly, Damodar, Barakar and Rupnarayan by analysing the physico-chemical,
bacteriological and biological parameters. Under the Ganga Action Plan (GAP), the Board
monitors the water quality of river Hooghly and under the Monitoring of Indian National
Aquatic Resources (MINARS) programme, the Board monitors the water quality of the rivers
Damodar, Barakar and Rupnarayan. The river water samples are collected every month from
eight stations of river Hooghly, four stations of river Damodar, one station of river Barakar
and one station of river Rupnarayan.
Impacts of Climate Change on Water Flows and Storage
The SWAT model has been run to obtain the projections of freshwater components i.e., blue
water flow (water yield - quantified rain fall plus deep aquifer recharge), green water flow
(actual evapotranspiration), and green water storage (soil water) at a sub basin level with
daily weather data for all river basins of India for baseline (1961- 1990, IPCC SRES A1B) as
well as GHG scenarios near term (2021 – 2050, IPCC SRES A1B) and long term (2071 – 2098,
IPCC SRES A1B) (see Figure 5.6).
The blue water flow, is decreasing in West Bengal region from 1000 to greater than 5000
mm/yr in base line scenario to 800 to 1000 mm/year in the midcentury scenario, except for
the North and south 24 Parganas where the blue water remains at >5000 mm/yr in the base
line as well as mid century scenario, and in the Northern districts of Darjeeling and Cooch
Behar where the blue water yield remains between 1000-5000 mm/year. By the end of the
century (top panel, Figure 5.6).
Green water flow in West Bengal is increasing in the mid century as well as end of century
scenario to > 1000 mm/yr in most parts of West Bengal. This has a direct relationship with
increase in temperature leading to higher evapo transpiration rates.
There is a distinct decrease in green water storage in the South Western Part of West Bengal
covering the districts of Purulia, Birbhum and East Medinipur Bengal in the mid century
scenario with respect to the base line scenarios. The decrease is from 101-125 mm/yr in the
base line scenario to 76 to 100 mm per year in the mid century.
scenario, mid century scenario (2021-2050) and end of century scenario (2071-2098)
Strategies to address climate change impacts
Meeting water demand in the future, even for a business as usual scenario in the mid century
will be difficult (refer to figure 5.2b). Climate change impacts will further enhance the demand, if
the water availability varies across time and space as indicated in the earlier section. Therefore,
an integrated approach to water management needs to be instituted to also take into account
the constraints posed by climate change. Since there is a regional variation within West
Bengal itself, in the observed changes in precipitation pattern, temperatures and also in the
projected changes of precipitation, temperature, and yields of blue water, green water flow
and storage, a region wise plan to address climate change concerns is appropriate. Following
are some of the strategies that can be resorted to. These are based on brain storming within
the departments, but cannot be limited to the same, as it is expected that with development in
technology new and improved actions within each strategy may need to be taken up.
A. Hill region
Considering the impacts of climate change in terms of changes in rain fall, temperature, blue
water flow, green water flow and green water storage, it is clear that the northern part of
West Bengal is likely to remain water replete. During mid century, the post monsoon rain fall
during October-November is likely to experience no change but will decrease in Jan-February
period with respect to the base line (1970s). Increase in intensity of rain fall is also a
possibility therefore retaining that water for ground water recharge will be a challenge. Even
today, the water received as precipitation in the northern areas flows away due to the
gradient towards the plains as well as to the neighbouring country Bangladesh. This water
can be retained to a certain extent through recharging of ground water through water
harvesting techniques. Therefore the strategies in the hill areas to ensure water security in
the context of climate change can be as follows:
 Undertaking rain water harvesting along the hill slopes, especially in the recharge zones,
to increase the percolation of rain water and thus result in the recharge of ground water.
This can be achieved through digging up of staggered trenches with hedge row. Actions
would also include identification of natural aquifers in the region.
 Initiate development of reservoirs intercepting River Jaldakha, Manas, Sankosh and other
rivulets for transfer of water from Surplus Basin to Deficit Basin in this region. The
feasibility of linking the rivers in this region can also be explored
 Construct check dams, wherever, feasible for the creation of water reservoirs for
harnessing surface Water
 Increase water storage capacity by building household, community and village level
reservoirs and repairing, renovating and restoring existing water bodies
 The Teesta Barrage Project is an ongoing project having a huge ultimate potential of 9.22
Lakh ha. Out of which, nearly 2 Lakh Ha of potential has been created. A detailed analysis
need to be carried out to understand the whether the water flow in the 100 year period
from now will remain as per the potential of the barrage perceived now, or it would
reduce or increase. Accordingly, steps need to be taken to either augmnet water flow into
the barrage or help excess water drain out without causing floods
Measures such as embankments and dams have not really helped the situation. National
policy on floods advises to go for more non structural measures to combat floods, as floods
also bring in the fertile soil on flood plains and flushes the rivers
B. The Old and New Alluvial Plains
The rain fall is projected to decrease in mid century period during the non monsoon months
and experience no change or slight increase in the monsoon months (refer to figure 4.4), as a
result, the overall blue water yield is expected to decrease in this region (Figure 5.5).
However, the annual average green water flow or the evapo transpiration is projected to
increase. The green water storage area is however shrinking, indicating that though the
storage amounts in some areas of this region might still be adequate but, adequate ground
water may not be avialble for extarction in the future. This means that in this region where
ground water is overexploited for water for agricultural purposes is likely to face water stress.
Further this region may continue to face severe floods due to increase in intensity of rain fall,
though the absolute volume of rain fall annually may decrease. Ground water recharge may be
one of the greatest challenges here, as the water deficit from rainfall currently is met through
ground water extraction. New and innovative ideas may have to be instituted to manage the
water resources in this region. This region is also afflicted by arsenic infiltration into ground
water, especially in ground water that are taken out of deep underground sources.
 Increase the reservoir storage potential of existing major irrigation projects in the region,
such as that of Kangsaboti, Mayurakhi, and the reservoirs of the Damodar Valley project
even the ones that are situated in Jharkhand. This can be done through removal of
siltation of present reservoirs, blocking leakages in the reservoirs and lining of canal
systems only on the sides to minimize percolation. The base need not be lined, as it helps
also in the recharge of underground water.
 The waste water generated in the thermal power plants and other large industrial units
may be recycled, so that partial demand of water of the plants is met through this
process
 For limiting rampant extraction of ground water extraction the concept of region specific
centralized ground water extraction systems may be created in areas which have been
found suitable (connected to aquifers that have more than 80 m depth), based on sound
scientific evaluation of the terrain, aquifers, rainfall receipt, and recharge zones.
Facilitation should be provided for recharge of ground water in its recharge zone through
rainwater infiltration. The water from this source will be only transferred when the
demand is high, and is not met through the conventional major irrigation systems or in
areas where surface water is not available.
 To avoid arsenic contamination from ground water and to augment the available water
from major irrigation schemes, establishment more number of surface water based
schemes, such as Lift Irrigation Schemes for irrigation and drinking water on location
specific basis may be encouraged in this region.
 Apply treatments for removing arsenic and other heavy metal contamination from
drining and irrigation water
 In addition rain water can be harvested by construction of water harvesting tanks and
ponds, and expanding the capacity of present ponds which are under direct command of
the farmers and can be utilized in the water stress period.
 Enhance artificial Recharge activities in over exploited ground water areas (critical
Blocks) through recharge structures such as Percolation tanks, Check dams, Recharge
wells, Recharge shafts/pits, and creation of subsurface dykes
 Undertake resuscitation of Derelict channel with provision of sluice gates for storing rain
water
 For abatement of floods in this region, a rethink and hence revamping of the existing
infrastructure and making new infrastructure that help water pass through and drain out
may be needed. Also incorporation of early warning systems may need to be put in place,
with installation of rain gauges at higher spatial resolution and installation of LIDARS for
real time analysis, and 7 day forecasting, to the population. Also in near term excavation of
derelict channels, blocked drainage and construction of new drainage might be taken up
especially in cities.
C. The Red and Laterite Region
As per the climate change projections available in this document (Figure 4.4, and 4.5), the rain
fall is likely to increase in the eastern parts of Purulia, during monsoon period in the middle of
the century, but other parts of this region are likely to experience no change with respect to
1970s. There is however, a distinct decrease in rainfall in the non monsoon periods, with no
change indicated for the eastern part of Purulia during Oct-Nov period. The net changes in
annual blue water flow (Figure 5.5) also show a decrease in the mid century with respect to
1970s in this region. The green water storage, i.e the soil water is decreasing in the mid
century with respect to 1970s (Figure 5.5, lower panel).
This region already suffers from recurrent droughts, and the ground water potential as it is
not very high with respect to other regions of the state. Policies that augment the storage of
surface run off need to be boosted here. Some of the adaptation strategies that can be
instituted can be as follows:
 Undertake special afforestation programmes to increase the run off infiltration ratio
through joint forest management practices in and around spring sheds and increase
stream flow by creating recgharge structures along the hill slopes through which the
streams flow.
 Undertake extensive rain water harvesting through dug up pits or directing rain water to
the recharge zones to enhance ground water recharge, reduce sediment load, and
rejuvinate moribund rivers.
 Create small reservoir schemes such as check dams, that intercept rivulets, Nalas, with
canal system in this region
 Encourage surface water schemes, through rain water conservation in ponds/dighis as

hard rocks in the area do not provide access to deep acquifers which are free from
fluoride. This approach might be more fruitful in the long run as compared to cost
intensive fluoride intensive technologies being propagated presently.
 Since the red and laterite area is a water deficit area, agriculture in this region will benefit
from the construction of the proposed Subarnarekha barrage, which at the moment is not
part of the Accelerated Irrigation programme of the Government of India.
 Undertake mitigation of fluoride and other heavy metal from water
D. Saline Coastal region
According to recent observations (2000-2009), this region is

also experiencing lower rain fall than expected in the non
monsoon months. The region faces the impacts of recurrent
cyclones which breaches the embankment separating the area
from the sea. It has problems of availing sweet water for
drinking, agriculture, and other purposes, as the water is
saline due to sea water incursion into the soil as well. Deep
tubewells are being used to get sweet water from deep
aquifers which are 300 m down. Also another problem faced
by this region is the erosion of land by the sea.
However, as per the climate change projections for the middle

of the century, this region is not likely to face water scarcity
even in the mid century as far as the projections of rain fall in
the monsoons and the annual blue water is concerned. Even
the green water storage remains the same as in the baseline i.e 1970s. With climate change,
the sea level is likely to rise further, causing larger area inland to be inundated. Also the
intensity of the cyclones is likely to increase giving rise to stronger storm surges.
In view of the above the main strategies that need to be put in place to ensure water security
of this region may be as follows:
 Enhance the activities of the Sundarban Development Board by creating more number of
“Rain Water Harvesting Scheme with land Shaping”
 Reconstruct the Sundarbans embankment in vulnerable areas through public and private
partnership to entrust the management of the embankment to public as well. Undertake
stabilisation of embankment slope, and create drainage through the embankment to drain
out high tide water.
 Construct sluices to prevent the intrusion of saline water in channels where it does not
exist
 Desalination project of river water in coastal areas
E. Scientific assessments for better understanding of impacts of CC
 Institute an early warning system for floods by (a) by installing automatic weather
stations including rain gauge at all 23 drainage basins and hydrographs at the coast line at
high spatial resolution, (b) LIDARS at appropriate spacing for an overall coverage of the
atmospheric parameters, (c) create capacities in the state to undertake real tie analysis
and hence near and long term forecasting of extreme rain fall and onset of monsoon and
(d) dissemination systems to make all farmers and the entire population aware of the
impending event.
 Assess water demand by sector by factoring in Climate change for short, medium and long
term time lines
 Monitor quality of water to understand the impacts of warming of the atmosphere and for
providing remedies
 Identify vulnerable areas of ground water contamination by point sources of industrial,

municipal solid waste landfills and agricultural pollutants and R&D on contamination
mitigation
 Undertake mapping of water availability in time and space – in Minor surface water
bodies, Aquifers, and Water use in conjunction with land use and land classification
F. additional policy related strategies
 Modernize the Irrigation system using Drip, Sprinklers systems.
 Pricing and Regulation: Lack of metering is an issue in West Bengal. Piped water usage
for domestic and drinking water can be subjected to metering and thereby restricting
unnecessary wastage of water can be avoided
 Undertake periodical census of minor irrigation projects to check sustainability and also
to detect dis-functionalities and to implement remedial measures
 Variable Irrigation Water Tax on surface water use and ground water use might be levied,
depending on the land holding size, to minimise use of ground water for irrigation and
also to reduce wastage of the water obtained through surface resources. This may also
encourage small and medium farmers to have their own water storage structure to
irrigate their fields.
 Extend compulsory rain water harvesting regulation in individual houses in all towns in
See Table 1, in Annexure 1, for details of Adaptation Strategies, Actions, time lines and
budgets.
6.0 Agriculture
Introduction
Agriculture is the primary occupation in the State of West Bengal. It is the main stay of 62.7
per cent of rural work force, and about 70 per cent of the rural population depends on
agriculture for their livelihood. The state’s six agro-climatic zones, namely Hill zone, Terai
zone, Old Alluvial and New Alluvial zones, Laterite zone and Saline Coastal zone offer an
extensive and diverse climate, soil, water availability through irrigation and rainfall, and
biodiversity creating diversified cropping systems. The agriculture sector in West Bengal is
characterized by the predominance of small and marginal farmers tilling more than 68% of
the total cultivated area. Average per capita land holding in the state is less than 1 ha.
Contribution of agriculture and allied sectors in State Domestic Product is 24.32% and of this
crop sector contributes 20.3%. The growth rate of this sector, however, has plateaued over
the years at about 2%.
Due to limitations in land available in the state for agriculture, the cropping intensity is one of
the highest amongst all the states in India. It increased from 131% to 185% over last two and
half decades putting tremendous pressure on soil and water resources. Despite these
pressures, the state achieved an all time record in food grain production and ranked first in
production of rice in the country in 2010. The rate of growth of production of rice is about 3%
per annum. The state produces 28% of the total potato in the country and the rate of growth
per annum is 12%. West Bengal has made a remarkable progress in oilseed production which
increased from 0.24 million tons to 0.55 million tons in last decade. West Bengal also is No.1
in the production of jute and produces nearly 60% of the country’s raw jute fibers. There is
potential to grow scented rice, off-season vegetables and fruits as well. The spatial spread of
major crops grown in West Bengal is shown in Figure 6.1 and the percentage production of
crops in the various agro-climatic regions is shown in Figure 6.2.
The horticulture sector in West Bengal is wide ranging and produces considerable amounts of
vegetables, fruits and nuts, spices, medicinal plants, aromatic plants, mushroom, etc., under
different agro-climatic conditions. All the agro0climatic regions, particularly, the hills and
terrain regions have possibility of multi-tier cropping systems which can enhance the returns
per unit area of land and time, generating employment potential and providing food and
nutritional security. The farmers are also producing non-traditional vegetables like baby corn,
brussels sprout, gherkin and broccoli. Over the years, productivity of these horticulture
products in West Bengal has increased considerably. In 2008-09, the state produced 2775.60
thousand tons of fruits and 12803.46 thousand tons of vegetables.
Source: Directorate of Agriculture, Government of West Bengal

Rice
34.3%
Wheat
2.2%
Potato
63.0%
Pulses
0.4%
Oilseeds
0.1%
Hill Zone Terai zone
Old Alluvial Zone New Alluvial Zone
Red and Laterite zone Coastal Zone
Source: Background Paper, SAPCC working group on Agriculture, Directorate of Agriculture,

West Bengal
The number of livestock population is large in the state, but the availability of livestock
products is below the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) norms. However, availability
of animal products increased over the years. For example, milk production increased from
10.64 lakh tons 1976-77 to 41.95 lakh tons in 2008-09. During the same period the meat
productions were 1.29 lakh tons and 5.27 lakh million tons and egg productions were 676
million and 3105, respectively. The corresponding internal requirements of the state for milk,
meat and egg for 2007-08 as per ICMR norm had been 57.47 lakh tons, 9.58 lakh tons and
8747 million, respectively. In West Bengal, all livestock and poultry are indigenous and low-
productive except Black Bengal Goat and Ghoongru pig. Augmentation of animal productivity
is the most challenging constraint that the state needs to address. Availability of feed and
fodder is another serious constraint. There are certain limitations such as non-availability of
land for fodder cultivation and acute shortage of availability of quality fodder seeds in the
state are responsible for the shortfall of fodder production .
Next to rice, fish is the staple diet of

Inland fisheries resources of West Bengal
Bengal's population and therefore,
fish production is one of the key
6 5.45
areas, where the state government
puts a substantial part of its 5 Area (Lakh ha.)
Area (Lakh ha.)
resources to maintain as well as 4
enhance its productivity. West 3

2.76
2.1
Bengal currently produces 30.18% 2
of the total fish through inland
1 0.42
fisheries in India - highest amongst 0.17
all the states. In 2008-09, it 0

Total water Brackish Floodplain Tanks and Reservoirs
produced 1294710 million tons of bodies water lakes and ponds
derelict water
fish through inland fisheries (Figure wetlands
6.3). As regards marine fisheries,
though West Bengal is not the top Figure 6.3. Inland fisheries resources in West Bengal
producer, but it produces 6.15% of
the total marine fish production of Source: Background paper on fisheries, M K Das, Central
the country, which was around Inland Fisheries Research Institute, West Bengal
189290 million tons in 2008-09.
Delivery Institutions, Policies and Programmes in the

agriculture Sector
Agriculture -Crop productivity: West Bengal is surplus in production of rice but there are
deficits in the production of wheat and pulses. For increasing productivity, the state has
adopted policies of using quality seeds, fertilizers, plant protection measures as well as
improved package of practices such as crop diversification and distribution of waste land to
the actual tillers through land reforms.
The requirement of food grains during 2006-07 was around 168.39 lakh tons and the
production was 159.75 lakh tons. The deficit was mainly due to less production of wheat and
pulses. Keeping this in mind various state plan and Centrally Sponsored Scheme have been
operationalised during the eleven plan period. National Food Security Mission has been
started across 12 districts of the State to boost up the production of wheat, pulses and rice.
Apart from this hybrid rice seed production programme, the Integrated Scheme of Oilseed,
Pulses, Oil palm and Maize (ISOPOM), development of cultivars of rice fortified with Zinc &
iron, research on suitable pulse and oilseed varieties, potato tissue culture, short duration
wheat varieties have been taken up. Also dryland/rainfed crop production programme and
special area development programme are also in operation.
For meeting the food security of the state, many of the infrastructure important for
agriculture such as the renovation of the Government Seed Farms, Commodity Research
Stations and Meteorological observatories have been beefed up. Measures such as Soil &
Water Conservation including Soil Survey & Testing, Natural resource management and
construction of water harvesting structures, Integrated Pest Management measures, Training
and skill development of farmers on modern agricultural technologies, Diversified cropping
programme for dry and Laterite regions, two new schemes Development of Zonal Adaptive
Research Station & Development of Commodity Research Stations of the State have also been
taken up. Agriculture markets have been strengthened along with measures to cover crop
failure through crop insurance for specific crop types.
The institutional set up through which the government implements its programmes and
policies in the Agriculture sector is as follows.
Directorate of Agriculture Department of Agriculture

Marketing
Office of theJoint Office of Additional Office of Joint Director West Bengal State
Director of Agriculture Director of Agriculture Agriculture Seed Corporation
(Plant Protection and (Evaluation) (Soil Conservation)

Quality Control)
Policies of the Agriculture Department

o Raising agricultural production and Productivity through wider adoption of appropriate eco-system-specific and cost
effective technology.
o Bringing more area under high yielding variety and hybrids of crops.
o Strengthening seed certification and seed testing functionaries and ensuring timely supply of certified seed.
o Use of balanced dose of fertilisers and nutrients.
o Increasing production of pulses and oil seeds in non-traditional areas and non- conventional seasons.
o Encouraging small and marginal farmers including Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes & women.
o Intensifying agricultural programme in the low productive and inaccessible areas - Coastal saline zone, Red and
lateritic Zone, Tista Tera Alluvial Zone an Northern Hill Zone.
o Encouraging the farmers for mechanization through the use of agricultural implements and machines for timely farm
operation, and reducing cost of cultivation.
o Maintaining soil health, use of bio-fertilizers, green manure and farm yard manure, balanced nutrition, consumptive
use of irrigation water and conservation of surface water through Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM), need-
based use of plant protection chemicals in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) concept and popularization of bio-
pesticides and botanical pesticides.
o Extending soil testing facilities upto district level for proper use of fertilizer.
o Strengthening Agricultural Extension Service including Training & visit system to intensify linkage between research
and extension workers.
o Managing crisis in the event of natural calamities and adequate budgetary allocation to mitigate the eventualities and
adopting contingent planning.
o Creating employment opportunities to improve the socio-economic status of the farmers and removing sub-regional
disparity.
o Exploiting surface water potential and reducing indiscriminate use of ground water, as far as practicable.
o Strengthening post-harvest technology for reducing loss and better marketability.
o Reducing Zonal and sub-regional imbalances.
o Promoting crop diversification.
o Promoting indigenous technology with ecology-specific productivity.
o Bringing in cultivable waste land and fallow land under cultivation.
o Promoting the concept of zero tillage/minimum tillage in vulnerable areas.
o Recycling water and arrangement for proper recharging of ground water.
o Promoting precision agriculture.
o Promoting low cost technology for increasing crop productivity.
o Increasing the cropping intensity from the existing 174% to 190% through scientific methods appropriate for the
agro-climatic zones.
Horticulture: Initiatives in the Department of Food Processing Industries and Horticulture

include distribution of hybrid vegetable seeds and fruit plants amongst small and marginal
farmers in all the districts. It has supported schemes like setting up of shade nets and area
expansion of the spices such as ginger and turmeric and beetle-vine. Subsidies are provided to
farmers for buying hand sprayers, pump sets and mango harvesters. Twenty nurseries have
been set up for the poor farmers in 3 districts - Dakshin Dinajpur, Uttar Dinajpur and
Burdwan. Undertook digging of dug-wells in dry areas such as Purulia, Bankura, Birbhum and
Paschim Medinipur districts for promoting horticulture. Impetus given to Mushroom
Development Scheme at Chinsurah.
The State Government in collaboration with

Policies of the Department of Food Processing
APEDA has set up five Agri-Export Zones Industries and Horticulture:
(AEZ) for pineapple in the districts of o To improve production quality and productivity
Jalpaiguri, Coochbehar, Darjeeling and Uttar of horticultural produce so as to increase the
Dinajpur; for litchee in Malda, returns to farmers as well as make the products
Murshidabad, 24-Parganas (North and competitive in the export market.
o To encourage private entrepreneurship for
South); for potato in Burdwan, Howrah,
processing of fruits, vegetables and other
Hooghly and Paschim Medinipur; for mango horticultural products.
in Malda and Murshidabad; and for o To encourage commercial horticulture and
vegetables in North 24-Parganas, Nadia and value addition to horticulture products.
Murshidabad. o To promote food processing industries in the
State.
There are 11 Horticultural Farms under the o To develop infrastructure facilities required for
State Government where production of commercialisation of horticulture.
planting materials, demonstration trials and
other research works are conducted. These farms are being modernized to train the farmers
and entrepreneurs for adoption of modern technologies, pre- and post-harvest management
including organic farming.
Most of the national schemes are operational in the state for enhancing horticulture produce
in a sustainable manner. The National Horticulture Mission (NHM) covers fruits, vegetables,
root and tuber crops, mushroom, spices, flowers, aromatic plants, cashew and cocoa. The
Micro Irrigation scheme has brought about 206.28 hectares of land for horticulture
production. The major districts adopting micro irrigation are Bankura, Burdwan, Paschim
Medinipur and Uttar Dinajpur. The National Bamboo Mission (NBM) and National Mission on
Bamboo Technology & Trade (NMBTT) are focussing on bamboo development, bamboo based
handicrafts and industrial development for improving rural economy through poverty
alleviation. The National Mission on Medicinal Plants, supports cultivation of medicinal plants,
development of processing units, and marketing infrastructure. The Rashtriya Krishi Vikash
Yojana promotes farm mechanization, production of seeds and quality planting materials,
establishment of nurseries, and creation of Horticultural Training Centres and Capacity
building of Farmers and Entrepreneurs.
Food quality testing laboratories have been set up across the state including in Department of
Horticulture and Department of Agricultural Chemicals at B.C.K.V, Jadavpur University,
Techno India, Salt Lake, and at U.B.K.V., Coochbeehar. More such laboratories need to be set
up. Also the State Government is establishing food parks at Malda, Sankrail, Chakgaria (South
24-Parganas), Kandua, Shankarpur (Purba Medinipur), Sultanpur (South 24-Parganas),
Kakdwip (South 24-Parganas), Haldia and Siliguri in order to provide common facilities such
as power supply, water supply, quality control laboratory, effluent treatment plant, cold
storage, ware house, etc. to the entrepreneurs for setting up food processing units.
The extent of activities undertaken by the Directorate of Cinchona & Other Medicinal Plants,
West Bengal is from almost the foot hills to an altitude of 1800 m in the hilly terrain of
Darjeeling district. It grows different species of Cinchona trees for Anti-Malarial drug
Quinine. Also it undertakes cultivation of Cephaelis ipecacuanha, Dioscorea composita, large
Cardamom, Rubber, Mulberry, Turmeric, Taxus bacata, Broom stick, Citronella, Vetiver,
Lemongrass, Artemisia annua, Mandarin Orange, etc. were started. It also does research and
cultivates of Cinchona, Ipecac, Mandarin Oranges and Bamboo.
The institutional arrangement through which the Department of Food Processing Industries
and Horticulture operates is as follows:
Department of Food Processing Industries &

Horticulture
Directorate of FPI&H Directorate of Cinchona and West Bengal State Food

Other Medicinal Plants Processing and Horticulture
Development Corporation
Fisheries: The state has developed

infra-structural facilities like Policies of the Department of Fisheries
construction of roads, bridges, o To bring all water bodies for fish culture by the fishermen
and unemployed youth.
culverts, rural electrification, market
o Protection of wetlands from filling and conservation of
complex, food parks, processing aquatic animals.
centres, fishing harbours and fish o Protection of aqua bio-diversity and environment.
landing centres, transport o Eco-friendly sustainable fish culture.
communication, tourism, o Setting up of infrastructure both in inland and marine
strengthened extension mechanism sector for the over all development of the sectors and the
people within.
by way of organizing awareness o To create/generate man days employment and socio-
camps in remote areas (through economic development of fishermen community.
funds from National Fisheries o Promotion of organic aquaculture.
Development Board, NFDB), river o Women empowerment.
ranching (through NFDB funds), o Promotion of micro credit through STC.
o Implementation of Marine and Inland Fishery Act.
protection and rearing of
o Issue of ID for fisher men
endangered species, research &
development and so on.
Also welfare measures for fishermen are being pursued with equal emphasis. In consideration
of export potential, steps have been taken to organize women’s cooperatives in greater
number in different districts for breeding and rearing of ornamental fish under NCDC and
FFDA programmes. 78 co-operative societies for culture of ornamental fisheries, with 3311
women members, have been registered up to 2010. In order to meet the increasing need of
fish seeds it intends to expedite setting up of hatcheries and fish feed plants in different places
of the State, which would lead to employment generation in the fisheries sector in greater
number. At the close of the 11th five year plan, the state target of employment generation in
this sector has been fixed at 150000 units.
In the scheme of Rashtriya Krishi Vikash Yojana (RKVY), nets and boats to the riverine
fishermen are being supplied, along with construction of a state of the art awareness centre
and modernization of research activities. It also intends to undertake construction of Block
level Fishery Offices, Brood stock management, Escalation of large water bodies, Research
work, Training centres, GPS enabled vessel monitoring system and Solar lighting system.
The Department of Fisheries has taken up programmes to set up more number of hatcheries
in the districts by introducing subsidy oriented schemes to attract the unemployed youths in
the State to accept fisheries as one of the sustainable means of livelihood. Fish Farmers
Development Agency have been set up for bringing more and more culturable water areas
under the fold of pisciculture through FFDA, BFDA and Short-term Credit programmes.
Reclamation of Beels and Baors is being continued in the State under NCDC assistance.
Further, the Fisheries Department has taken up a project for preparation of a comprehensive
database and information networking in the fisheries sector by the use of remote sensing
technology. For this purpose, very high resolution satellite imageries have been procured
from NRSC to generate maps on the scale of 1:4000 in respect of the districts of Purba
Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, Bankura and Purulia for depiction of all the water bodies for
an area of 5 cottah or more.
The State Government executes its policies and programmes through the Directorate of
Fisheries, West Bengal and three organizations viz., The West Bengal State Fishermen’s Co-
operative Federation Ltd. (Benfish), State Fisheries Development Corporation (SFDC) and
West Bengal Fisheries Corporation (WBFC). The Directorate is primarily responsible for
execution of plan schemes. Other three organizations have their specific responsibilities. The
Benfish executes schemes under NCDC assistance and WBFC is responsible primarily for
execution of schemes under RIDF. The SFDC is primarily responsible for pisciculture in State
owned farms.
The institutional set through which all policies and programmes of the government in the area
of fisheries are executed is as follows.
West Bengal Fisheries Department of Fisheries West Bengal State Fisheries

Corporation (BENFISH) Government of West Bengal Corporation
Directorate of Fisheries
Livestock and live stock products: To boost up fodder production in the State, the
Government is regularly taking up a series of programmes / schemes for encouraging farmers
to grow fodder in their own lands through various fodder development schemes; promoting
cultivation of fodder in non-conventional areas like water-shed, waste lands, inter-spaces of
various lands, orchard lands through plantation of different shade-tolerant fodder crops;
developing pasture lands involving local bodies, reputed NGOs, self-help groups etc. It is
supplying high yielding seedling and planting materials to the cattle owners with an emphasis
on cross breed cattle owners in the form of mini kits; and organizing regular training
programme on fodder production technology to the farmers / cattle owners / rural youths in
all districts, etc.
Several programmes are also

Policies of the Department of Animal Resources:
undertaken under RKVY such as o Lifting rural masses above poverty level through Animal
Cattle and Buffalo Development Resources Developmental activities in each Gram Panchayat.
including infrastructure o Training of rural masses specially the women in scientific animal
development for sexing of semen, husbandry practice, arrangement of loan through financial
genetic upgradation of sheep and agencies and supply the necessary inputs to them to undertake
Animal Husbandry Schemes.
goat, Conversion of District
o Strengthening of Frozen Semen Technology in West Bengal and
Veterinary Hospital to Poly Clinic, provide this facility up to G.P. level either through Govt. unit or
Modernisation of Block/Additional through engagement of PRANI BANDHU –A self-employment
Animal Health Centre, venture.
Establishment of BSL-III lab at o Establishing one veterinary Poly Clinic in each district.
IAH&VB campus, Kolkata, o Establishing one District Composite Firm in each district.
o Establishing super specialist Disease Diagnostic Lab (RDDL) for
Development of Feed and Fodder, referral cases of entire State and other Eastern, North Eastern
Heifer Rearing, Modernisation of states.
Training Institute/Centre and o Establishing Disease Investigation Network in entire State through
Development of marketing facilities establishment and strengthening of Diagnostic Laboratories.
o Establishing suitable research facilities in the field of Animal Bio-
Technology and other areas veterinary science for the benefit of
productive Livestock.
Under Rural Infrastructure o Establishing Animal Disease and Management Information
Development Fund (RIDF), some System throughout the entire State by computerized information
important schemes that have been system.
o Supplying of varieties of pasteurised liquid milk to consumers of
taken up include Infrastructure for different socio-economic status through Govt. Milk Depots and
Institution of Animal Resources at Milk agents in poly-packs.
Haringhata Farm and Setting up
Veterinary Polyclinic in Burdwan and Darjeeling.
The State Government has been implementing Alternative Animal Husbandry Programme for
generation of gainful employment in the tribal dominated areas of Paschim Medinipur,
Bankura and Purulia. Artificial Insemination (AI) isalso promoted. The Government has
expanded the activities of West Bengal Co-operative Milk Producers’ Federation Ltd. in the
sphere of development of milk co-operatives and dairies in the State. In 2008-09 (up to
December, 2008), 322.58 thousand kg per day (TKPD) milk (including 60.77 TKPD milk from
other sources) was procured from 3428 societies with 241469 members.
The West Bengal Livestock Development Corporation Ltd. distributed 20 lakh chicks in all the
districts among Women Self-Help Groups in 2008-09. The Corporation has taken up the same
programme during 2009-10. The Corporation has been entrusted with marketing of
Government poultry meat like Turkey, Quail, Cockrail, Duck, Rabbit, etc. along with milk
products of Government through various outlets of the Corporation.
The West Bengal Livestock Development Corporation Ltd. manufactures and distributes
animal, poultry, fish and other livestock feed. During 2008-09, the production and sale of
various livestock feed stood at 32588.934 MT and 32633.121 MT respectively. Two sylos of
500 MT capacity each has been installed at Kalyani Feed Milling Plant with central assistance
under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikash Yojana to reap the advantage of bulk purchase during the
harvesting time.
West Bengal Dairy and

Department of Animal
Poultry Development
Resources
Corporation Ltd.
West Bengal Livestock

Directorate of Animal Directorate of Dairy Processing Development
Resources and Animal Development Corporation Ltd
Health
Others:
West Bengal University for Animal & Fishery Science
West Bengal Co-operative Milk Producers’ Federation Ltd.
Calcutta Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Concerns of the Agriculture Sector due to Climate Change

Agriculture crops
Though there is an inter-annual variability, the total precipitation across the state has a
decreasing trend across all its agro-climatic zones, except for the hill region (refer to figure 3
a-f). According to the trends, change in precipitation in 2008 with respect to 1990 in the Terai
zone, New Alluvial zone, Old Alluvial zone, Red and Laterite zone, and the Saline Coastal zone
have all experienced a change of the order of -8.8%, -20.0%, -33.3%, -2.7%, and -2.1%
respectively, with exception of the hill zone, where apparently though there is an inter annual
variability, the trend is not declining.
Onset of monsoon is getting delayed and monsoon precipitation has become very erratic. In
2008-09, i.e. July 2008 to June 2009, a large part of the Gangetic West Bengal recorded heavy
to very heavy rainfall in the 1st half. As a result of this downpour, accompanied by breaching
of embankments of rivers traversing through these regions, vast areas of Paschim and Purba
Medinipur came under the grip of unprecedented flood. Aman seedbeds, summer vegetables,
jute, betel vine, flowers, etc. were damaged and the entire farming community had to incur
irreparable loss. In 2009-10, however, there was shortage of rainfall, and a drought like
situation was created, again leading to reduction in productivity of most of the crops.
The minimum temperatures are increasing leading to increase in winter temperatures that
have begun to remain considerably above normal causing uncongenial situation for
cultivation of most of the rabi crops. The rise in temperature during critical stages of wheat is
leading to less production. The production of other winter crops like pulses and oil-seeds are
also decreasing (Table 6.1). The area under total pulses decreased again this year to 184
thousand hectares from 200.9 thousand hectares during 2007-08. The production of total
pulses decreased by about 10 and 18 per cent, respectively.
The observed increase in foggy and cloudy days in winter is further causing widespread
damage of rabi crops, particularly potato (especially in 2008-09) due to increase in incidences
of pest and disease. Its production was reduced to less than half of the production during
2007-08, with similar decrease in yield rate, though the area sown under potato was reduced
by only 3.7 per cent (Table 6.1).
Increasingly the duration of high temperatures during summer is extending, and in spite of
adequate rainfall, it is leading to reduced production of late-sown Boro paddy. Though the
area under the crop was slightly more than the previous year, the yield was reduced by 14 per
cent, resulting in 11.5 per cent reduction in production of Boro rice (4358 thousand tonnes
during 2008-09) (Table 6.1).
Table 6.1: Trends of area under different crops and their productivity
Crop Area (‘000 ha) Production (‘000 t)
2007-08 2008-09 2009- 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

10
Aus 281.61 292.44 214.06 565.82 604.96 466.76
Aman 3926.54 4086.59 3986.33 9227.59 10074.26 9501.9
Boro 1511.59 1556.62 1429.7 4926.1 4358.01 4275.87
Rice 5719.75 5935.69 5630.09 14719.52 15037.24 14340.6
Wheat 352.57 306.98 315.88 917.28 764.52 846.65

Maize 77.17 90.77 97.71 244.37 343.43 385.21
Total 200.94 184.014 182.39 158.02 129.73 150.43

Pulses
Total 707.43 703.68 681.98 705.7 582.62 726.719

Oilseed
Jute 609.81 584.23 614.36 8216.03 7872.58 9324.96
Source: Economic Review GOWB, 2009-2010; Estimates of area and Production of Principal
Crops in West Bengal 2008-2009, Directorate Agriculture, GOWB; Personal Communications,
Directorate of Agriculture, GOWB, 2011.
Increase in intensity of extreme events such as cyclonic storms has been observed. On 25th
May, 2009 a devastating cyclonic storm, Aila, caused havoc particularly in the coastal districts
of the State. Vast areas in North and South 24-Parganas were inundated under saline water,
causing large damage to agriculture of the Sundarbans.
The soil characteristic is changing due to over exploitation. Massive external augmentation
required to maintain soil health for optimum production. The soil health in Burdawan and
districts representing the New Alluvial zone and the Red and Laterite agro climatic zone
respectively are presented in the figures 6.4 and 6.5.
As air temperature is increasing, growth and multiplication of pests is taking place. Increase in
length of extreme temperature will decrease soil moisture affecting soil microbes adversely.
Using the InfoCrop model driven by the climate scenario [ derived from HadRM3 run on A1B
IPCC socio economic scenario], it is projected that by 2030s, the potato production may
decline by 4-16% in West Bengal (ICMR Network Project, Annual Report, 2009-2010).
Simultaneously, there might be increase in soybean yields by 8-13%. Effect of climate change
on groundnut is likely to be variable with yields varying between -5 and +7% as compared to
current yields (ref: BCKV report, in Annual report 2008-09 of the Network Programme on
Climate Change of ICAR).
A study carried out by BCKV using InfoCrop model (ICMR Network Project, Annual Report,
2009-2010) for the new Alluvial zone in West Bengal, indicates that if the temperature rises
by 1°C, the yields of rice, mustard and wheat are likely to decrease. The decrease will be of
the order of 830 kg/ha for kharif rice, 450 kg/ha for mustard and 640 kg/ ha for wheat.
The productivity of potato in the entire Indo-Gangetic plain, of which West Bengal is a part, is
likely to decrease by 2 to 19% and 9 to 55 % in the year 2020 and 2050, respectively since,
the winters are already milder and further rise in winter temperatures would adversely affect
the productivity (H.P. Singh, http://www.niam.res.in/pdfs/DDG_Hort_lecture.pdf, accessed on
4th April, 2011).
Soil reaction Area (km2) % Area

Strongly acidic 588.7 8.4
Moderately acidic (pH 4.5 to 5.5) 2661 37.9
Slightly acidic (pH 5.5 to 6.5) 2493.1 35.5
Neutral (pH 6.5 to 7.5) 814.9 11.6
Slightly alkaline (pH 7.5-8.5) 175.6 2.5
Alkaline (pH >8.5) 65.4 0.9
Miscellaneous 225.3 3.2
Total 7024 100

Source: Fertility Mapping Initiatives in West Bengal & their Significance in Reorienting
Plant Nutrient Management, a project carried out by NBSSLUP in collaboration with
Department of Agriculture, Govt. of West Bengal
Available boron Area Km2 % Area Rating
(mg kg-1)
<0.06 5162.1 73.5 Deficient

0.06-0.12 908.2 12.9
0.12-0.24 684 9.7
0.24 - 0.36 32.6 0.5
> 0.36 11.8 0.2 Sufficient
Total 7024 100
Available zinc Area % Area Rating
(mg kg-1) (km2)
<0.6 2298.9 32.7 Deficient

0.6-1.0 1896.2 27 Sufficient
1.0-2.0 1780.9 25.4
2.0-3.0 480.4 6.8
3.0-5.0 252.3 3.6
>5.0 90 1.3
Total 7024 100

Organic carbon (%) Area (km2) % Area
Low (< 0.50 %) 522.7 11.5

Medium (0.50-0.75 %) 1546.2 34
High (> 0.75 %) 2358.2 51.9
Total 4545 100
Figure 6. 5a: Organic C status in soils of Birbhum district (Red and Laterite
Zone)
Soil reaction classes Area (km2) % Area

Strongly acidic (pH <4.5) 98.7 2.2
Moderately acidic (pH 4.5- 2202 48.4
Slightly
5.5) acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) 1648.7 36.3
Neutral (pH 6.5-7.5) 437.1 9.6
Slightly alkaline (pH 7.5-8.5) 40.6 0.9
Total 4545 100

Available boron Area % Area Rating

(mg kg-1) (km2)
<0.06 2596.4 57.1
0.06-0.12 573.6 12.6 Deficient
0.12-0.24 647.4 14.3
0.24 - 0.36 328 7.2
> 0.36 281.7 6.2 Sufficient
Total 4545 100
Figure 6.5c: Spatial distribution of boron in Birbhum district

Experiments conducted in field facilities Box 1: CO2 enrichment mechanisms and likely impacts
such as Free Atmospheric CO2
Enrichment (FACE) facility, Open Top Physiological response of elevated levels of CO2 varies between
Chambers (OTCs) indicate that elevated species, and in particular, two different pathways of photosynthesis
effective in C3 and C4 plants (Gornal et al., 2010; Philosophical
CO2 level (560 ppm) leads to enhanced
Transactions of the Royal Society, http://rstb.royalsocietypublishing.
grain yield of rice, groundnut and wheat
org). The difference lies in whether ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate
substantially at all nitrogen levels. carboxylase–oxygenase (RuBisCO) within the plant cells is saturated
Groundnut showed greater thermal by CO2 or not. In C3 plants, RuBisCO is not CO2-saturated in present
sensitivity during post flowering day atmospheric conditions, so rising CO2 concentrations increase
growth phase than during pre- net uptake of carbon and thus growth. The RuBisCO enzyme is highly
flowering growth phase. At elevated conserved in plants and as such it is thought that the response of all
CO2 condition protein content in rice C3 crops including wheat and soya beans will be comparable.
Theoretical estimates suggest that increasing atmospheric CO2
grains decreases. Reduction in protein
concentrations to 550 ppm, could increase photosynthesis in such C3
content is upto 21.4% corresponding to
crops by nearly 40% (Long et al. 2004). The physiology of C4 crops,
a high N treatment (ref: IARI report, in such as maize, millet, sorghum and sugarcane is different. In these
Annual report 2009-10 of the Network plants CO2 is concentrated to three to six times atmospheric
Programme on Climate Change of concentrations and thus RuBisCO is already saturated (von
ICAR). Caemmerer & Furbank 2003). Thus, rising CO2 concentrations confer
no additional physiological benefits. These crops may, however,
become more water-use efficient at elevated CO2 concentrations as
stomata do not need to stay open as long for the plant to receive the
Studies carried out by the Indian National Centre
required CO2. of Ocean
Thus information
yields may (INCOIS),
increase marginally using(Long
as a result
Satellite (ARGOS, a satellite-aided, global ocean monitoring
et al. 2004). system
This might using
also be buoys;of GRACE,
the reason increase the
in maize
production
twin satellites of NASA and Jason 2, a US-French in West and
satellite) Bengal.
tide gauge data have found that
the sea level in the Indian Ocean has risen by about 9 mm between 2004 and 2008,
suggesting an annual rise of 2.25 mm. Global average sea level rose 1.8 mm per year at an
average over 1961 to 2003. The highest level of rise has been noticed in West Bengal's
Hooghly area, though Sea level rise is not the single factor for this higher level of rise at this
location, it has global and local reasons. In areas like the Sunderbans, which faces a serious
threat of inundation, sea level rise has a direct link to saline water intrusion in the coastal
region, impacting agricultural practices.
Specific agro-climatic zone wise concerns are listed in Table 6. 2.
Table 6.2: Region specific key concerns due to changing climate in West Bengal*
Agro Climatic zones Concerns
Hill Zone o Decline in size and quality of citrus such as mandarin

orange due to rising minimum temperature during
flowering of citrus trees.
o Increase in runoff from enhanced intensity of rainfall
leading to erosion and landslides.
o Reduced productivity of Darjeeling tea due to increase in
extended drought periods. In 2010, due to the prevailing
drought and ageing of the tea trees (80 years) the

productivity was the lowest in many years at 7.74 million
kg as against the highest of 14 million kg in 1991 in the last
two decades (http://www.thehindu.com/sci-
tech/agriculture/article1063434.ece, Kolkata Jan 7, 2011;
accessed on 4th April 2011)
o Increase in winter temperature effecting potato and wheat.
o Degradation of seed quality.
Terai Zone o Long winter periods conducive to wheat production in this
region, but increase in winter temperatures reducing wheat
yields.
o Degradation of quality seeds.
o Nutrient loss by enhanced leaching.
o Long span of winter is an advantageous which can be
exploited.
Old Alluvial Zone o Drying of natural water bodies due to extensive use of water
for irrigation as the surface run off reduces
o Excessive underground water extraction as demand
exceeds availability which is over and above the receipt of
rainfall, and available surface runoff
o Rice productivity at stake due to water stress in future
o Wheat productivity has decreased due to shorter winters
o Temperatures in excess of 45-46 oC in summers is
impacting productivity of oilseeds and pulses
o Also excess temperatures affecting livestock productivity
o Increase in pests and disease due to increase in foggy days
affecting pulses
o Degradation of quality seeds
New Alluvial Zone o Reduced availability of water has reduced the production
on boro rice
o Jute also requires intermittent irrigation, reduced amount of
water availability may affect jute production
o As jute crop requires humid climate with temperature
fluctuating between 24 and 38 oC, any increase in
temperature may effect jute productivity.
o Further, as new grey alluvial soil of good depth receiving
silt from annual floods is most suitable for jute growth, any
increase in rainfall intensity in this region, is likely to
remove the alluvial silt deposition, affecting jute
productivity.
o Decreasing potato yield with increasing winter
temperature.
Red and Laterite o Rainfall inherently scanty in this zone as compared to other
Zone agro climatic zones in West Bengal and is reducing further.
In 2009 the rain fall was only 700 mm.
o Also temperature, both maximum and minimum, are rising.
o Agriculture mainly rain fed, only 27% of the land area is
irrigated.
o Soil is poor in nutrient content and likely to become drier..

Saline Coastal zone o Intrusion of saline water into the agricultural land resulting
in loss of yields and greater risk to the farmer. After Aila,
enhanced salinity in soil was tested upto 40 km from
Kolkata.
o Natural salinity of the soil is increasing due to recurrent
intrusion of sea water, resulting in loss of agricultural land
and making people migrate.
o Longer span of summer increased insect and pest attacks on
crops.
o The delayed winter has hampered the cultivation of winter
crops.
o The intrusion of saline water causes severe stress on
availability of drinking water.
o Increasing humidity leads to incremental phenomenon of
vector borne diseases.
* based on discussions with experts and their perceptions (BCKV, Department of
Agriculture, Govt. of West Bengal)
Fisheries
In the context of climate change, the primary challenge to the fisheries and aquaculture sector
is to ensure food supply, enhance nutritional security, improve livelihood and economic
output, and ensure ecosystem safety. Some of the impacts on inland fisheries can be as
follows:
Seed availability: It has been observed that with increase in temperature there is a decrease in
fish spawning and hence decrease in fish seed availability (Figure 6.6)
Figure 6.6: Decreasing fish spawn as temperature is increasing over the years
Source: Das et al., 2009, Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, West Bengal
Growth of Fish: Temperature changes will have an impact on the suitability of species for a
given location. In temperate areas increasing temperatures could bring the advantages of
faster growth rates and longer growing seasons. Similarly for the Indian Major Carps the
growth rate increases upto 33ºC but from 34ºC and above feeding is reduced and growth
diminishes. This simple growth model provides a reliable projection of growth (SGR %) with
unit rise of temperature within the range of 29º to 34ºC. Assuming these growth rates are
constant, it would take average 77 days for a fish to double its weight at 30ºC to 33ºC and
35ºC, but at 34 ºC it would take only 35-36 days.
Enhanced breeding period of fish : Elevated temperature range (0.37ºC–0.67ºC) and alteration
in the pattern of monsoon proved a major factor for shifting the breeding period of Indian
major carps from June to March in fish hatcheries of West Bengal. Investigations conducted
indicate an extended breeding period of Indian major carps by 40-60 days, with breeding
season extending from 110-120 days (Pre1980-85) to 160-165 days (2000-2009) at present in
fifty fish seed hatcheries in four districts of West Bengal, India viz. North 24 Parganas,
Bankura, Burdwan & Hooghly. This has provided opportunities to the farmers to avail of the
extended breeding period in producing valuable fish seed and supplement their income.
Geographical shift of fishes: A perceptible shift was observed in geographic distribution of the
warm water fish species, Glossogobius giuris, Puntius ticto, Xenentodon cancila and Mystus
vittatus towards the colder stretch of the river Ganga up to Haridwar with an enhancement of
annual mean minimum water temperature of 1.5ºC in the Haridwar stretch during the period
1970-86 to 1987-2009. This stretch has become a congenial habitat for these warm water
fishes of the middle stretch of the river. As a result fishers would have an enhanced yield and
diversity in their fish catch from the stretch.
Drought condition prevailing in West Bengal during 2009 had impacted fisheries. District of
North 24 Parganas rainfall was deficient by 29%, Bankura by 27%, Burdwan by 23% and
Hooghly by 34% in the fish breeding months of March to September.
92% of the fish seed hatcheries have been affected by the deficit rainfall and increasing trend
of temperature in the state. That results indicate about 61% and 73% loss of fish seed in
North 24 Parganas and Bankura, respectively during 2009 compared to the previous four
years.
The cyclone Aila affected loss to fishing equipments and aquaculture enterprises. Freshwater
fishes in ponds were rendered ineffective due to salinity rise.
The vulnerability index for the fisheries sector of West Bengal indicates that fisheries activity
is more susceptible to climate change (Table 3). Studies on inland fisheries (Central Inland
Fisheries Research Institute report, ICAR- NPCC Annual Report 2009-10) indicated that
drought in West Bengal during 2009 affected 92% of the fish seed hatcheries due to deficit
rainfall and high temperature in the state. Freshwater ponds became unusable due to salinity
rise because of cyclone.
For the fisheries and aquaculture sector, climate change notwithstanding, there are
several issues to be addressed. Strategies to promote sustainability and improve the
supplies should be in place before the threat of climate change assumes greater
proportion. In the fisheries sector proper adaptive measures needs to be taken to
combat climate change.
Table 6. 3: Vulnerability of fisheries in various districts of West Bengal
Source: CIFRI, Annual Report ICAR-NPCC, 2009-10.
Horticulture Crops
Horticulture produces are being affected through multiple pathways due to the
changing climate (http://www.niam.res.in/pdfs/DDG_Hort_lecture.pdf, accessed on 4th
April, 2011). Horticulture in West Bengal constituting of fruits, nuts, medicinal plants,
aromatic plants, flowers, ginger, saffron, and vegetables with tremendous economic
value are likely to experience huge losses due to further changes in climate unless
adaptive steps are taken now. As an example, it can be seen in Figure 7 that the ginger
suitability sites are likely to shrink in West Bengal, when temperature increases by 1.5
to 2.0o C. In fact the ginger production suitability becomes marginal in parts of new
alluvial zone and in red and Laterite zones, only the best regions available for
production get restricted to the hilly zone and the red and Laterite zone. .
(a) (b)
Figure 6.7: (a) Ginger site suitability map for India with current climate, (b) Ginger site
suitability map for India with when temperature is likely to increase by 1.5 to 2 oC.
Source: http://www.niam.res.in/pdfs/DDG_Hort_lecture.pdf, accessed on 4th April, 2011
Some of the likely impacts of climate change on horticulture include:
A rise in a temperature of above 1ºC may shift a major area of potential suitable zones
for various horticultural crops. Studies conducted at IISR, Calicut using GIS models have
shown that many suitable areas of spices will become marginally suitable or new areas,
which are presently unsuitable, become highly suitable for cultivation of spices. This
holds good to a variety of horticultural crops, such as citrus fruits, medicinal plants
grown in hilly zone of West Bengal.
Production timing is likely to change. Because of rise in temperature, crops will develop
more rapidly and mature earlier. For example, citrus, grape, melons and mangoe will
mature earlier by about 15 days.
While temperature rises, photoperiods may not show much variation. Onions, a
photosensitive cop, will mature faster leading to small bulb size. Strawberries will have
more runners at the expense of fruits.
As the winter regime and chilling duration reduce in temperate regions, they will affect
the temperate crops.
The faster maturity and higher temperature induced ripening will make the produce,
especially fruits to have less storage period in trees/ plants. They will overripe.
Pollination will be affected adversely because of higher temperature. Floral abortions

will occur.
Soil temperature will increase much earlier in spring hence the planting time also will
advance. This can be catastrophic if late frosts occur.
The requirement of annual irrigation will increase, not only because of higher
evaporation, but also because the trees develop more fasters during the 12 month
period. Heat units required will be achieved in much lesser time.
Higher temperature will reduce tuber initiation process in potato, reduced quality in
tomatoes and poor pollination in many crops. In case of crucifers, it may lead to bolting;
anthocyanin production may be affected in apples and capsicum. Specific chilling
requirements of pome and stone fruits will be affected hence dormancy breaking will be
earlier. Tip burn and blossom end rot will be common in tomatoes.
Soil conditions may pose problems with an increase in acidity, alkalinity and salinity are
expected. Coastal regions can expect much faster percolation of sea water in inland
water tables causing more salinity.
Live stock
Livestock Productivity: The

Temperature Humidity Index (THI)
relates animal stress with temperature
and humidity. Livestocks are
comfortable at THI between 65 and 72,
under mild stress when THI is between
72 to 78 and under severe stress when it
is above 80. The average THI for
different places in India is shown in
Figure 8. The livestock in West Bengal is
already experiencing medium to high
stress levels. Increase in temperature
levels in the future may make the entire
West Bengal region with THI > 80.
Studies carried out by NDRI, Karnal

reveal that livestock, especially cattle
Comfortable Mild stress Severe Stress
Figure 6.8 : THI spread across India

and buffalo are likely to suffer from heat stress impacting their productivity. Similarly small
ruminants and poultry also are like to be affected and loss in their productivity is expected
(see box 2). Some of the impacts on cattle and buffalo are listed below.
Impact on production systems: There is normally a decrease in milk production for animals
under heat stress. This decrease can be either transitory or longer term depending on the
length and severity of heat stress. These decreases in milk production can range from 10 to
>25%. It has been estimated that with a temperature rise of 1.0 or 1.2°C with minor change in
precipitation during March – August, (Region 23- HADCM3 A2/B2 scenario) milk productivity
is likely to be marginally affected and during other months productivity will remain relatively
unaffected. The negative impact of temperature rise on total milk production for India has
been estimated about 1.6 million tonnes in 2020 and more than 15 million tonnes in 2050.
An average adult cow or buffalo producing 10-15 lit milk per day requires about 40- 45
lit/day as drinking water on hot days and about 40- 60 lit for other related work thus
requiring a minimum of 100 lit/ day/ animal. An organized animal farm following standard
management practices and disposal of animal wastes requires additional water about 50- 100
lit/day/animal. Any loss in water availability will certainly lead to decline in milk
productivity.
Impact on animal growth and reproduction: Heat stress due to temperature or temperature
-humidity impairs reproductive functions and efficiency of almost all livestock species.
Various studies have shown that heat stress challenges the reproductive performance of cattle
and buffaloes (Upadhyay, R.C., Ashutosh, Raina,V.S., Singh, S.V. 2009. Impact of Climate Change
on Reproductive Functions of Cattle and Buffaloes.In, Global Climate Change and Indian
Agriculture – Case Studies from the ICAR Network project, edited by P.K. Aggarwal, 107-110)
such as altered follicular development. Further, possible climatically associated shifts in
animal breeding time and offspring born could occur in cattle and buffaloes under different
agro-climatic conditions. Rising temperatures negatively impact growth and time to attain
puberty of livestock species, it is likely to slow down from a growth rate of 500g/day or more
to 300-400 g/day of growing cattle. Crossbreds are more sensitive to rise in THI than
indigenous varieties. Analysis of the potential direct effects of climate change and global
warming on Murrah buffaloes indicated that a temperature rise of more than 2°C over existing
temperatures in 2050s will cause higher incidence of silent estrus, short estrus and decline in
reproduction efficiency of buffaloes. Such impacts are also expected on indigenous cattle
varieties in West Bengal
Impact on physiological responses and functions: The sensitivity of livestock to increasing

ambient temperatures under open ambient conditions and in climatic chamber have been
evaluated by exposing Zebu, crossbred cattle and Murrah buffaloes to warm/hot ambient
temperature (26-40°C) and low/cool temperatures (6-16°C) at NDRI Karnal. Body heat
storage increased beyond their capacity to tolerate heat particularly on days, when THI
exceeded 80 during summer and hot-humid conditions. The study also revealed that Zebu
animals under hot dry/hot humid conditions have better heat tolerance than crossbreds or
buffaloes. The sensitivity of buffaloes to temperature rise above 35°C was observed to be
higher than either Zebu or crossbreds. The physiological responses, such as respiratory
frequency, heart rate and energy expenditure doubled or trebled for an increase of 1.0°C in
temperature.
Effect on feed and fodder availability: Water scarcity not only affects livestock drinking
water resources, but also it has a direct bearing on livestock feed production systems and
pasture yield. Rising temperatures also have an additional impact on the digestibility of plant
matter. Raised temperatures increase the lignifications of plant tissues and thus reduce the
digestibility and the rates of degradation of plant species. This not only affects the health of an
animal but also results in the reduction in livestock production which in turn has an effect on
food security and incomes of small livestock keepers. Studies have shown that dry matter
intake decreases in animals subjected to high temperatures. This depression in dry matter
intake can be either short term or long term depending on the length and duration of heat
stress.
In West Bengal there is already a severe shortage of feed and fodder. The fodder requirement
is around 615 MT/year, as against this, availability is only 248 MT (40%). The area under
permanent pastures and other grazing land is less than 0.1 per cent of the. Total reporting
area under fodder land is only 1.08% in West Bengal. There is acute shortage of good quality
fodder seeds in the State. The two main feed ingredients viz., maize and soybean are required
to be imported from other states.
Animal diseases and livestock health: Climatic conditions favourable for the growth of
causative organisms during most part of the year due to temperature rise will facilitate spread
of diseases in other seasons and also increase area of spread. Higher temperatures and
changing rainfall patterns can enhance the spread of existing vector borne diseases
(Bhattacharya et al, 2006) and macro parasites, accompanied by the emergence and
circulation of new livestock diseases. Climate change will modify the dispersal, reproduction,
maturation and survival rate of vector species and consequently alter viral and bacterial
disease transmission. In some areas, climate change is likely to generate new transmission
models. Temperature and humidity variations could also have a significant increase in
helminth infections, protozoan diseases such as Trypanosomiasis and Babesiasis. Some of
the viral diseases (PPR or RP like diseases) may also reappear affecting both small ruminant
population as well. Frequency and incidence of mastitis and foot diseases affecting crossbred
cows and other high producing animals may increase due to increase in number of stressful
days.
Wide spread animal disease in West Bengal is mainly due to Low hygienic standard, Improper
housing, Malnutrition, and Inadequate veterinary facilities vis-à-vis livestock population
Box 2: Impact of climate change on poultry in India
As the ambient temperature reached ≥34°C the mortality due to heat stress was significantly high in
heavy meat type chickens (8.4%) as compared to light layer type (0.84%) and native type (0.32%)
chickens. Feed consumption decreased from 108.3 g/bird/day at 31.6°C to 68.9 g/bird/day at 37.9°C.
Egg production also decreased both in broiler (by 7.5%) and layer (by 6.4%) breeders as compared to
their standard egg production. The body temperature increased from 41 to 45°C as the shed
temperature rose from 28 to 42°C and the critical body temperature at which the birds succumbed to
death was 45°C, which was observed at the shed temperature of 42°C. Naked neck birds performed
significantly better than the normal birds with respect to thermotolerance, growth, feed efficiency and
immunity at high temperatures.
Strategies and Actions for Adaptation to Climate Change

Source: http://www.icar.org.in/files/reports/icar-dare-annual-reports/2010-11/climate-change-AR-2010-11.pdf
Crops
The general strategies that are applicable for

ensuring adequate crop productivity and
ensuring associated livelihoods in West Bengal
would include:
 Crop diversification needs to be done by

introducing alternate production systems in
the 6 agro-climatic zones, that effectively
exploits the climate, soil and water resource
availability in the context of climate change.
This can be done through exploitation of the
biodiversity and encouraging diversification
to new crops that are a part of the
biodiversity of the zone, and also by
enhancing activities under Integrated scheme
of Oilseed, Pulses, Oil Palm and Maize
(ISOPOM). In the upland in Red and Lateritic
Zone of WB, where there is no impounding of
rainwater, maize, black gram, pigeon pea,
millets can be grown as sole/ intercrop. In
the pre-monsoon season, areas receiving
>100mm rainfall can be cropped with
greengram and blackgram. In upland, i.e hill
and terai zones, cultivation of Goundnut,
maize, sorghum, soybean, blackgram and
greengram needs to be taken up instead of rice. More outreach required to train farmers
on alternate crops.
 Introduction of new cultivars of rice, and other important staple crops that are heat
resistant, can endure water stress, tolerant to salinity of the soil, and are fortified with
nutrients for growing in soils deficit in corresponding nutrients. Introduction of short
duration wheat can be one adaptation strategy to overcome the rising winter
temperatures.
 Encouraging indigenous cultivars that are more hardy with respect to vagaries of climate
and more nutritious such as small millets, and other cereals, pulses and oil seeds
 Upscale Resource Conservation Technologies (RCTs) for farming such as “no tillage" as it
saves water, labour and energy, helps early sowing, improves soil organic C, reduces soil
compaction, increases fertilizer use efficiency, and reduces soil erosion.
 Water harvesting through ground water recharge using runoff from hills in red and
Laterite zone.
 Introduction of drip irrigation in Red and Laterite zone.
 Water conservation for rice production can be significantly enhanced by introducing

aerobic rice, direct seeded rice, and SRI technologies such as keeping the fields moist, not
flooded, planting of singe plant adequately spaced to permit more growth of roots and
canopy and to keep all leaves photosynthetically active; and rice seedlings are
transplanted when young, to avoid trauma to roots and to minimize transplant shock.
 Introduce farm mechanisation for planting technologies such as bed planting for rice and
wheat and drum seeding for direct seeding.
 Additionally, brown manuring can also be done for resource conservation as it is a ‘no-
tillage’ version of green manuring, using a non-selective herbicide to desiccate the crop
(and weeds) at flowering instead of using cultivation. The plant residues are left standing.
This may also be a preferred option on lighter soils prone to erosion. The standing
residues can be grazed after appropriate withholding periods have been observed.
Further sequential cropping can be practiced.
 Introduce sequential cropping of different crops, that can also augment nutrient into the
soil for the next crop.
 Nitrogen management through LCC in puddled and direct seeded rice: Leaf Colour Chart
(LCC) to determine the nitrogen status in growing rice in direct seeded/ transplanted
/Zero Tillage (ZT) rice. The timings of nitrogen top dressing could easily be determined
based on soil N supply and crop demand. This simple tool helps farmers to reduce the
excess use of nitrogen fertilizers and leads to fertilizer savings of up to 46 kg N /ha.
 Popularise the concept of

Integrated Farming System
(IFS) that integrates, rice crops,
livestock and fisheries. For
example, the livestock can
provide the manure, which can
be used for producing energy.
The effluent of the biogas
system can be the manure for
the fields. The water on the
fields can support fisheries. Rice
stock can be cattle feed. Broken
rice grain for poultry feed. IFSs Integrated farming systems
with different types of elements
of integration can be developed as per the suitability of a region.
 Undertake effective soil nutrient management, to counter the deficiency of soil nutrients
across the state - application of right nutrient, right time and right place for minimum
costs. For example, in terai region due to leaching there is deficiency in lime, Zinc and
Boron. Further, it seen that by green manuring such as enrichment of the soil organically
by growing a variety of crops on the land and then ploughing the green matter back into
the soil it is possible to enrich the soil in 200 days .
 Develop biological ways for combating weeds, insect, pests and diseases and nutrient
management. For example, green manuring incorporates green plant residue into the soil
with a cultivation implement. Most commonly conducted with an offset disc plough,
cultivation aims to kill weeds and control seed-set while building soil organic matter and
nitrogen status. Green manuring has a very long history of managing weeds and building
soil fertility in systems where herbicides are either not an option or not available, such as
organic farming systems.
 Strengthen research and development for

o water resource conservation technologies
o developing new climate proofed cultivars
o nutrient management
o organic pest management
o Identification of crops for crop diversification
o Identification of traditional hardy, nutrient rich crops appropriate for each zone
 Effective outreach for advisory to farmers on various aspects of agriculture including

setting up systems to access real time weather and 7 days forecast and long term forecast;
strengthening outreach through agricultural BPOs for accessing information on
forecasting on climate (7days forecast, advent of monsoon, and projections on rain fall and
temperature for the entire cropping season- on choice of cultivar, time of cropping, likely
crop diversification, type, method, time and quantity of farm inputs; promote use of
internet and mobile telephony.
 Develop seed storage facilities in red and laterite areas where the moisture is the least.
The aim is to establish a seed bank in this region which will make available seeds for
contingent situations and also develop infrastructure for seed storage. The salient features
would be the establishment of seed bank for maintenance of foundation and certified
seeds of different crops to ensure timely availability of seeds to the farmers, to take care of
the special requirement of seed at the time of natural calamity and to create infrastructure
facilities for production and distribution of quality seeds. The seed bank will be
established according to the guidelines of the national scheme on development of seed
banks and supported by the West Bengal State Seed Corporation. Further, seed banks at
village/community levels also need to be encouraged.
 Access to funds for farmers to enable them to develop market ready products such as dal
thrashers and oil mills.
 Expand the coverage of crop insurance to small and marginal farmers in the state. In
order that the benefits of Crop Insurance can reach the actually affected farmers,
insurance of two most important crops in the State – Aman and Boro rice have been
notified at the Gram Panchayat level since 2002-03. The other crops insured at block level
in West Bengal are Jute, Aus rice, Maize, Wheat, Mustard; and those insured at the district
level are Musur, Gram, Maskalai, Arhar, Mung, Linseed and Til. In the Rabi season of 2008-
09, 6.43 lakh farmers insured their crops, of whom 6.41 lakh were small and marginal
farmers. The total area covered was 3.40 lakh hectares with total sum insured amounting
to Rs.982.10 crore. The amount of premium paid was Rs.3953.74 lakh. The total subsidy
paid by the Central and the State Government was Rs.3694.56 lakh of which state’s share
was Rs.1847.28 lakh.
 Enhance access to markets by building infrastructure for transferring produce and storing
grains in block levels in West Bengal.
 Encourage public-private partnership for easier penetration of all strategies for fortifying
productivity and food security and for enhancing earnings of the marginal farmers.
Fisheries
The main aim of the Government of West Bengal is to ensure productivity of fish even in the
context of climate change. Hence the following strategies have been put forward to ensure the
same.
 Real time Monitoring of Fish shoals: Monitoring of Fish Shoals is necessary to assess the
quantum of fish arriving per shoal at different level of river and sea-water and at different
time period. For this 1 (one) Deep Sea Monitoring –cum Research vessel equipped with
state of the art technology may be hired from other Govt. Organizations. Further
throughout the stretch of River Ganges from Sagar to Farakka at least 40 Nos. of
Monitoring Cell (21 for Riverine, 6 for estuarine & 7 for Fishing Harbours and 6 for Fish
landing centers along the coastline of West Bengal) equipped with modern facilities
should be constructed. Every unit may be operated by a 5 (five) member team.
 Real time Weather Monitoring & Forecasting: It is one of the vital parameters for gaining
maximum /optimal production of fish and fish seed as the climatic parameters
(Temperature, Humidity, Rainfall, Water flow, Sea-surface temperatures and water level)
are directly associated in maintaining fishery resources properly. For this a
meteorological unit at all districts headquarters (Meen Bhavan Complex) and places of
importance from the point of view of inland and marine catch may be installed in 22
points across the State as per guideline of India Meteorological Department (IMD) and /or
CSIR. This will cost around Rs. 506 lakhs. However, in 12th plan, real time data from
Regional Meteorological Centre, Alipore, Govt. of India on yearly contract basis for the
data of stations/districts and places of importance from the point of view of Fish and
Fisheries @ Rs. 1.0 lakh per year per can be accessed. Total cost will be Rs.110 lakh.
 Mapping vulnerable fisher folk settlements: Identifying vulnerable fisher folk residing in
and around inland and marine villages is a matter of deep concern. Through the system of
Remote Sensing and Geographical Information Systems they may be located them and
project new outlook for their all round socio-economic development. Location and
mapping of the helpless fisher folk throughout the state may be done at gram panchayat
level. Qualified personnel on contractual basis may be deployed to collect such data from
G.P. Level in conformity with the data of Census Department. Govt. of India and GIS data
attained from zonal officers of Dy. Directors and to synchronize such data in computer.
 Forecasting and use of simulation Modeling: The following factors will involve in
generating a model for forecasting on fisheries viz. i) weather forecasting, ii) Testing of
soil and water iii) Training on Fishery and fishing practices at grass-root level. In India,
spatial marine fish catch and effort data are available for the last four decades. However, a
synergy between the climatic and oceanographic data and fisheries data does not exist.
Projections on climate change impact on fish populations are the first step for future
analytical and empirical models, and for planning better management adaptations. Special
thrust needs to be given for data generation. There may be gaps in attaining real time data
on Fish & Fisheries. Disparities observed between the published report and actual
physical observation is a matter of deep atrocity and such disparity occurs in course of
data transition from lab to land and vice-versa. Data management in its proper sense
should be taken into account to overcome the problem. The strategies for bridging the
gaps include i)Adequate training to Fishery Officers’ (from grass root level to District
Level), ii) Engagement of qualified survey personnel (at least Science graduate ) iii)
Acquaintance of fishery personnel with modern equipments and computer systems iv)
Random field visit and routine supervision by higher officers.
 Mangrove Plantation: There is a positive correlation between mangroves extent and total
fisheries yield in the adjacent waters due to abundant supply and regeneration of
nutrients due to the activity of microorganisms and filter feeders (Schelake and Odum
1962). The estuarine water is not only enriched with nutrients but it is perfectly buffered
against abrupt changes in pH. Different types of bacteria in abundance in the soil, water,
litter etc play the important role in nutrient cycle of this ecosystem. Mangroves resist soil
erosion and protect the mainland from devastating storm. There should be a specific
programme for mangrove plantation along the canals, ponds and other water bodies in
the Hoogli Matlah estuarine region for the conservation of bio-diversity.
 Promotion of brackish water canal fisheries: Promotion of Brackish Water Canal Fishery
and Creation of mangrove dyke plantations along the tide fed canals to prevent erosion as
well as enrichment of nutrients of canal water through leaf fall. Further, Mangroves help
to protect coast lines from erosion, storm damage, wave action. Protection and
conservation of the natural environment and periodical excavation of the canals are being
made by the local populace for their own interest. In Vietnam, a number of State Forestry-
Fishery Enterprises (SFFEs) integrating shrimp & fish culture and mangrove forestry were
developed in coastal communities of the Mekong Delta with an objective of rehabilitation
of mangroves and income generation by the process of aquaculture. West Bengal has an
extensive canal network of about 80,000 ha spread over different river systems with vast
unrealized fishery potential out of which 23,430.47 ha is in the coastal districts covering
24 parganas (N), 24 Parganas (S) & Purba Medinipur (DOF, GoWB, 2003-04).
Table 6.4: List of Canals under South 24 Parganas District

Sl No Name of the Block Total area in
acres.
1 Sagar 59.00
2 Patharpratima 287.87
3 Kakdwip 35.83
4 Namkhana 16.39
5 Mathurapur – I 9.40
6 Mathurapur – II 215.46
7 Kultali 112.39
8 Joynagar – II 214.69
9 Canning-I 20.55
10 Canning-II 7.00
11 Basanti 161.05
12 Gosaba 1055.99
13 Bhangore-II 15.20
14 Kulpi 30.50
 Development of Sewage fed fisheries: West Bengal has 0.41 lakh hectare of beels. owned by
the Fisheries Co-operative Societies. Besides, 279 wastewater fed farms covering an area
of approximately 5000 ha supply more than 21,000 MT of fish per year to the city
customers. Protection of water and wetlands resources can be achieved by introducing
fish in these areas to improve water balance, produce more oxygen and absorbing more
carbon dioxide. The floodplain wetlands (beels) are considered as biologically sensitive
habitats as they play a vital role in the recruitment of fish populations in the riverine
ecosystems and provide nursery grounds for commercially important fishes as well as the
endangered native fishes. Most of the large water bodies viz. Beel Baor Bundh etc. have
become silted due to long years of neglect. It has been observed that the ecotonal zones of
the wetlands have become extremely shallow (witnessed only 0.5-1.0 mt depth in
average). This has resulted in overflowing of water from these water bodies causing flood
with consequential loss of fish crop.
 Providing Life Saving Equipments: Losing a life of a fisherman in work is a serious concern.
There should be specific plans to provide life saving equipment to the fishers. The
equipments should be easy to wear and remove, maintenance free, hazard less and cost
effective.
 Protection and Development of Water Bodies: Protection and development of water bodies
is of utmost importance to combat climate change. Fisheries activities need to be
popularised in both seasonal and perennial water bodies. Initiatives need to be taken to
preserve the small water bodies by promoting endangered species. Protection and
conservation of the natural environment and periodical excavation of the water bodies
will be made by the local populace for their own interest. Small ponds in rural areas
especially in Sunderbans regions will be re-excavated, reclaimed and renovated. About
500 hectors water with a unit cost of Rs. 1 lakh per hector will be brought under this
scheme by the year 2020.
 Promotion of Solar Light: Tapping non-conventional energy resources by way of erection

of solar light is very important in respect of adaptive measures for climate change.
 Block level laboratory cum training centre for Fishery Extension Officers: The Fisheries
Department, Government of West Bengal took an initiative to expand its extension service
upto grass root level by establishing Block level laboratory cum training center for Fishery
Extension Officers. These establishments are the main hub of the training, demonstration
of new technology, water and soil analysis as well as disaster management. In case of
sudden occurrence of any type of climatic hazards these centres equipped with e-services
can offer all type of assistance immediately.
 Research to ensure fish productivity and hence food security:

- Endangered fish species
- Fish virology and effect of pesticides on fishery
- Survey of Migration route, biomorphological study and stock assessment of Hilsa &
other species
- Increased Productivity & Brood Stock Management in Departmental Farms
- Species specific feed formulation for native threatened/endangered fish species
through gut content analysis of the target species
- Value added fish products
- Impact of climate change on marine and coastal fish production of West Bengal &
options for adaptive measures
- Mass culture of different indigenous algal species on preparation of algal powder for
ready to use fish feed & human supplementary feed
Horticulture
Considering that the temperatures are increasing and rainfall is becoming erratic, along
with the changing pattern of soil nutrient, the productivity of horticultural crops are at
stake. The basic climate and soil nutrient requirements for major horticulture crop are
listed in Table 6.5. Any parameter above and below will jeopardise their productivity.
Hence the follwoing strategies may be adopted to maintain the same level of
productivity as well as enhance the same.
Table 6.5 . Soil and climatic requirements of horticulture crops

One of the challenges the horticulture production in the near future will be to increase
high quality horticulture in marginal sites where the abiotic environment is the limiting
factor. Supra and sub-optimal temperatures, soil factors and water deficits are the most
likely environmental factors limiting production. A good integrated management
strategy can include:
 Protection from heat in all zones below hill and terai zones: In the short run, provide over
head shade to fruit trees and construct greenhouses for vegetables, wherever the
temperatures are exceeding the tolerance level of plants
 Research: In the long run, introducing new varieties to ensure livelihood security of the
poor relying on agriculture, focus should be on optimizing productivity with maximum
profits. Research and Development will play a vital role in identification of new cultivars
resilient to higher temperatures, water stress and high concentration of CO 2. Develop fruit
and vegetable varieties that can adapt to excess salinity, can tolerate heat stress and water
stress. Develop vegetable varieties that are fortified with nutrients that are absent inthe
soils they are grown. Develop short rotation varieties of vegetables to adjust to the
increasing winter temperatures
 Popularization of indigenous varieties: Mapping of existing traditional varieties practised

by farmers in different regions are to be conducted and characterized having high
resilience to the changing climate need to be identified and promoted.
 Crop diversification: Continue and intensify crop diversification programmes to include

more crops which have wider adaptability. Improvement of existing practices of growing
crops which are sensitive to climate resilient crops.
 Improve floriculture programmes: Climate change will definitely impact production of

flowers. Promotion of protected cultivation of high value commercial flowers should be
focussed. Provide support for greenhouses.
 Production of off-season vegetables: Off-season vegetables have very high scope for
improvement of rural economy at higher altitudes where the temperatures are likely to
remain conducive.
 Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Steps to be taken to replace chemical control of

diseases and pests by bio-pesticides, bio-control agents and other organic methods. These
programmes need to be intensified to expedite the process of organic conversion.
 Water management system: Undertake water management programmes to use efficiently

water and provide critical moisture for crop health. Ongoing programmes such as drip
irrigation, construction of rain water harvesting structures, community ponds are to be
strengthened to increase productivity with limited water and simultaneously conserving
rapidly diminishing water resources. Through efficient system of water management, it is
targeted to utilise fallow land after paddy crop for cultivation of vegetables, potato and
other horticultural crops during Rabi season.
 Reducing weather related risks: Establish weather stations at high spatial resolution for
weather data collection at village level, analysis by near by agriculture university and
forecasting the same. Sensitise the farming community on weather related risks. This
system should also focus on helping farmers to make critical farming decisions for
efficient crop management practices.
 Enhance infrastructure for storage and transport to markets of perishable horticulture

products.
 Monitoring impacts of climate change: Information system within the department needs
to be strengthened with focus on collection of baseline data and a system to measure
changes periodically with climate change impacts
Livestock and Livestock Products
 Encourage breeding of small ruminants for livelihood security: The State is naturally
gifted with a good stock of Black Bengal Goat, Garole Sheep and Ghungru Pig. The
presence of high fecundity factor makes the breeds like Bengal Goat, Garole Sheep and
Ghungru Pig for evolution in any adverse environment. Genetic up-gradation programme
of Garole Sheep, Bengal Goat and Ghungru Pig involving SHGs in the State of West Bengal
has to be given utmost importance.
 Therefore as a strategy for adaptation for small and marginal farmers who can afford the
small ruminants , encouragement may be given for Goat Farming (Bengal Goat), Sheep
Farming (Garole Sheep), Pig Farming (Ghungru Pig/ Improved breed), Broiler Farming,
develop Meat processing plants, and undertake Male exchange programme of Black
Bengal goat to arrest inbreeding depression
 Strengthen disease investigation system: Research studies to be conducted to study the

causes of diseases related to climate and the nature of emerging diseases due to
emergence of new pests and diseases and develop control measures by involving livestock
research institutions.
 Preventive health measures: To control and contain the existing epidemic diseases, the
government and its concerned departments need to prepare long term strategies where
by 100 percent population of the livestock get regularly vaccinated. Beside this, animal
health camps need to be set up in various occasions to make people aware of adopting
different control measures.
 Improved cattle sheds for alleviating heat stress in livestock: The cattle sheds may be
augmented with Water sprinklers or directly bathing the animals to enable them to have
evaporative cooling, allow them to wallow in the ponds and other water bodies, increase
the air circulation in sheds so that cool air is retained, undertake evaporative cooling;
 Feed and fodder development:. To combat fodder shortage, fodder development needs to
have an additional impetus from the government by promoting mixed crop system,
growing fodder on waste land, agro forestry etc. These may be further enhanced. It may
also think of supporting farmer centered fodder banks. Undertake mineral mapping in
different regions to assess mineral status and accordingly supply specific mineral mixture
to farmers for growing fodder.
 Dairy Development: For enhancing the milk productivity even with increase in
temperatures, extensive Artificial Insemination of the indigenous stock of the State has to
be undertaken. .
 Risk Management: Coverage of agriculture insurance may be extended to animal

husbandry as well, especially for small and marginal farmers. Feasibility of the same
needs to be studied before it can be launched. Other forms of risk management for
farmers can be explored.
 Capacity building of farmers for effective adaptation to climate change: Adaptation

practices vis a vis right shelter for animals to protect them for heat stress, right grazing
practices that would enable the animals to be protected from heat, the practices for
identifying disease and mitigating them, creating feed mixes with proper nutrients for
enhancing mild productivity, etc.
See Table 2, 3, 4 and 5 in Annexure 1 for strategies, actions, timelines and budgets for
adaptation to climate change in for crops, livestock, horticulture, and fisheries.
7. Forests and Biodiversity

Introduction
The forests in West Bengal cover just 2.7% of the Indian landmass but it is home to 12.27% of
Indian biodiversity known till date. The state has more than 7000 species of described flora
including bacteria, algae, fungi, bryophytes, pteridophytes and angiosperms and more than
10000 species of described fauna. It has a rich resources of traditional knowledge for
conservation and information associated with these bioresources. The state’s rich and living
traditions are typically folksy in character and are closely related to the area’s topographical
conditions.
Some of the prominant wildlife animals that have their habitats in West Bengal include, the
Royal Bengal tiger, clouded leopard, Red Panda, Batagur Terrapin, Goliath Heron, Leopard,
Jungle cat, Olive Ridley turtles, marbled cats, Bengal Florian, Fishing cat, Indian elephant, ,
Pygmy hog, esturine crocodile, Gaurs, leopard cats, spotted deer, assamese macque, Great pied
hornbill, Pythons, Black necked crane, Ganges river dolphin, Himalaya Black Beer, Indian
Rhinoceros, Barking deer, Serow and King Cobra.
Hundreds of species of Asteraceae, Poaceae, Leguninoceae, Roseceae, Scorphulariaceae,

Rubiaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Cyperaceae and Saxifragaceae represent 10 dominant families of
angiosperms in the area. About 40% of total Himalayan flora is endemic with the majority
occurring in the eastern flank.
Of the gymnosperns, 15 species occur in Eastern Himalayas with at least 5 genera being
confined to the region. Of the ptendophytes (fern and fern allies), 70% of polypodiaceous taxa of
India are concentrated in Eastern Himalaya.
Nearly 50% of more than 2000 moss species are known from the region. Of the liverworts, more
than 320 species are known from the region with a high percentage of endermism. At least 728
taxa out of 2000 species known from this country occur in the Eastern Himalaya.
The Eastern Himalayan region is also well-known for medicinal and aromatic plants of the
genera Aconitum, Asparagus, Berberis, Loscorea, Ephedra, Gentlna, Hedychurum, Inula, Prunus,
Rheum, Rosa, Saussurea, etc. 82 species of crop plants of Eastern Himalaya is also well
documented. Due to increasing loss of habitat and impact of human activites, a large number of
species are becoming vulnerable or threatened.
The richness of floral diversity could be appreciated from the point that West Bengal occupying
only 2.7% of total area of India possesses more than 12% of floral diversity in angiosperm
(flowering plants) in the area outside Dooars and Darjeeling Himalaya
West Bengal has diverse forest types as it extends from alpine climate in the Himalayas in its
North to tropical climate in the Southern coastal region.
Rapid rise in population in the last one century, and its developmental needs have lead to the
conversion of large tracts of forests to agricultural land and to other land uses. As a result the
forest cover in West Bengal is sparse (14.64% of the total area), which , ideally should have
been around 33% of the geographic area (National Forest Policy, GOI). Inspite of the socio-
economic pressures, about 10 diverse forest types exist in West Bengal. The details of the forest
types and their location in different districts along with area covered is shown in Table 7.1.
Northern tropical dry deciduous forest area dominates, follwed by littoral and swamp forest in
the Indian Sundarban region.
Table 3.7: Areas under forest in different districts of West Bengal
Forest type Location Area km2 Principal trees spp.
1B-Northern North Bengal Plains 167 Shorea, Mesua, Eugenia,

tropical wet and foothills Bischofia Artocarpus
evergreen forest spp., Cinamommoum
spp., Amora spp. etc.
2B-Northern North Bengal 25 Michlia, ailanthus,

Subtropical semi- foothills Terminalia spp. Phoebe
evergreen forests etc.
3C-North India North Bengal 1757 The most important

moist deciduous Dooars and Terai forest zone of the state
forest is situated in this sub-
montane tract consists of
Shorea, Mesua,
Terminalia spp. Schima,
chuckrassia, amoora,
cedrela etc.
4B-Littoral and Ganga, 4263 Ceriops spp., Excoecaria,

swamp forest – Brahmaputra, Avicennia, Heritiera sp.,
mangrove forest of deltaic region of xylocarpus, carapa spp.
the Sundarbans etc.
4D-Littoral and Malda and Dinajpur 20 Barringtonia sp.

swamp forest – district
seasonal of the
Northern tropical Bankura, Purulia, 4527 shorea, Pterocarpus,

dry deciduous forest Midnapore, Diospyrus spp., Madhuca,
Burdwan and Terminalia, alaca, T-
Birbhum district. belirica, T- aurjuna,
Butea spp.
8B-Nothern sub- North Bengal Hill 800 Englehardtia spp.

tropical wet hill Schima, Castanopsis sp.,
forests 300-1700 mt Betula etc.
11B-North montane North Bengal hills 150 Michelia, Machilus, Alnus,

wet temperate 1600 -3000 mt. Exbucklandia, Betula and
forest Acer sp.,
12C-East Himalayan North Bengal hills 150 Exbucklandia

moist temperate ,Englehardtia spp.
forest 1500-1800 mt Schima, Castanopsis,

Betula sp., T.myriocarpa.,
Duabanga spp., Acer, spp.
14C-sub alpine North Bengal hills 20 Acer, high altitude oaks,

forest 3000-3700 mt Prunus and several
conifers, eg. Taxus,
Tsuga, Abies, Juniperus,
and high altitude Betula,
Rhododendron spp. and
Arundinaria spp. and
other high altitude
Bamboos.
Currently the forest cover

of the state is around
12,994 km2 which is
14.64% of the states
geographical area.
Comparison of the current
forest cover (i,e as of Oct-
Dec 2006, as published in
State of the Forest Report,
2009 of the FSI), with that
of Nov-Dec 2004 shows a
gain of 24km2 of forest
cover. In terms of forest
canopy density classes, the
state has 2,987 km2 of very
dense forest cover , 4644
km2 is moderately dense
forest, and 5363 km2 is
open forest (See Figure
7.1). The change matrix
indicates that there has
been a decrease of 5km2 in
very dense forests and
2km2 decrease of
moderately dense forests
and an increase in 31km2
of open forests has Figure 7.1: Forest Cover Map of West Bengal.
occurred. The increase in Source: State of the Forest, 2009, Forest survey of India
forest cover has occurred
in the districts of Bankura,
Birbhum, Bardhaman,
south 24 Pargans's, Jalpiguri, and Medinipur due to protection of Sal coppice and plantation of
acacia, Eucalyptus and Casuarina in the coastal areas.
Institutions Involved and Current programmes and policies to protect

forest and biodiversity in the state
The Department of Forest, Government of West Bengal is responsible for overall management of
Forests and wild life in the state. The department promotes activities related to Eco tourism, soil
conservation, supports research and development, It undertakes afforestation activities(see
table 7.2).
Table 7.2: Scheme wise afforestation activities in 2006-2007
The main thrust in the field of forestry in the State is on the improvement of forest trees and
productivity of forests. Species introduction trial has been considered as another method of
improving the forest quality of the State. In this trial, species exotic to this country are being
introduced and propagated in suitable environment and particularly where indigenous species
fail to thrive. Recently Silvicultural nurseries have been given special attention. Modernization
of nurseries have been done by improved irrigation system using automated misting apparatus
and sprinkler to provide best facilities for clonal as well as seedling propagation. Large-scale
application of bio-fertilizer and compost, which are eco-friendly, is promoted for raising field
plantations. Organic manure is being preferred in place of inorganic fertilizers and it has proved
its efficacy in field trials.
The West Bengal Forest Development Corporation Ltd. operates under the Department, and is
regulator of large scale harvesting of forest produces, creation of new eco-tourism centres,
production and marketing of forest products and such allied activities. The administrative set
up of West Bengal Forest Development Corporation Limited is headed by the officers of the
Forest Directorate on deputation.
For intensive management of Wildlife of the State, a new post of Principal Chief Conservator of
Forests, Wildlife and Biodiversity has been created alongwith a separate Wildlife Wing. He is
assisted by one Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests. Almost 34% of the total forest
area, consisting of a number of Wildlife Sanctuaries, National Parks, Biosphere Reserves and
Tiger Reserves, is under the Protected Area Network.
The gamut of activities of the Forest department and its subsidiaries include development of
working plans, silviculture operations, protection and monitoring, developing afforestation
plans and nurseries, soil and moisture conservation works. and Joint Forest Management. To
ensure, public participation in management of Forests the WB government has set up Forest
Protection Committees, Eco development Committee's, and Self Help Groups constituting of
communities that are dependent on forest products in Red and laterite zone, hilly areas and in
Saline coastal areas.
Under the "Integrated Forest Protection Scheme" sponsored by Government of India, The WB
government is protecting forests from fires. The works preformed under the scheme is to
sensitize the Forest Protection Committees (FPC) about the ill effects of fire and fighting of fire
along with local staff of the area, creation of water sources such as earthen dams, other soil
moisture conservation structures, wells etc. which would on one hand benefit the FPC and help
to fight fire in the area on the other, creation of new firelines and maintenance of old ones etc.
Besides above, watch towers are constructed at strategic locations and fire watchers are also
engaged during the fire prone season for tracking of fire earlier. See Table 7.2.
Table 7.3: Forest Fires in 1996-2007 in West Bengal
Division No. of cases Area affected Estimated
(ha.) loss (Rs. in
lakhs)
Bankura (North) 11 118.00 0.30
BTR (E) 2 3.50 -
Burdwan 1 5 -
Cooch Behar 3 50 -
Darjeeling 6 51.90 -
Durgapur S.F. 6 32.50 0.79
East Midnapore 5 526.65 4.64
Jalpaiguri 4 28.095 -
Kurseong 26 43.15 0.40
Kangsabati – I 1 2 0.10
Kangsabati – II 1 10.00 0.50
Kalimpong (G & S) 5 105.75 -
Panchet S.C. 3 8.00 0.05
Wildlife - I 72 625.00 1.58
Likely Impacts of Climate Change on Bidoversity and Forests in West

Bengal
Shift in Vegetation Type: A modelling study carried out in 2004 (NATCOM, 2004), using BIOME
vegetation model with inputs from a climate change scenario derived from IPCC IS92a, indicates
that in the West Bengal region, as increase in precipitation is expected, a shift in vegetation type
towards the wetter, more evergreen type is expected. Since these are rather slow growing, the
replacement will take much longer, and increased mortality in the existing vegetation may lead
to a decrease in the standing stock except in the Western part of the state near Purulia and
Birbhum where the vegetation type may become xeric. Even if there is no drastic shift in the
biome type, changes in the composition of the assemblages are are certainly very likely. Thus
few species may show steep decline in population and perhaps may become extinct. This in turn
will impact other taxa dependent on the different species (i.e domino effect) because of the
interdependent nature of the plant-animal-microbe communities that are known to exist in the
forests ecosystems. This could lead to major changes in the forest biodiversity.
Net Primary productivity : The net primary productivity of the forests is likely to increase.
Impact on wild life: Qualitative conclusions drawn from the likely changes in biome and
vegetation type, is likley to impact wildlife species by impacting their habitats, especially that of
several high altitude mammals including red panda in West Bengal. An increase in precipitation
in the future scenario at the middle and at the end of the century may lead to severe flooding in
the Himalayan region, and may place the wildlife in the protected national parks at risk.
similarly, the Himalayan medicinal plants will be at risk due to increase in temperature, and
therefore need intensive research and development of species that can bear the heat stress and
still retain the characteristics for which they are sought after. Also the rich flora of the
Himalayan region, may be threatened due to increase in temperature. Flowers like the orchids,
are very sensitive to the temperature and moisture content of the atmosphere, and therefore
any change in the same would jeopardise their existence.
Impact on mangroves in Sundarbans: Further due to more discharge of water in the Ganga, it
might effect the Sundarbans Mangroves that are more accustomed to the saline water.
Therefore species, that are tolerant towards sweet water may also have to be planted in the
forest towards the inland side to cope with the rush in sweet water.
Forest fires: The other apparent impacts of climate change may be increase in forest fires, as
the temperatures increase. Managing forest fires will be a challenge in the future.
Increase in land slides in the Hilly region: Climate change, bringing more frequent intense
rainfall may exacerbate the land slides across the mountains of Sikkim.
Changes in timing of seasonal events: Phenology is the study of changes in the timing of
seasonal events. As temperatures increase, spring and summer events are advancing in time.
Evidence includes early leafing, fungal fruiting, bird egg laying, spawning of amphibians, arrival
of migrants and insect emergence. Autumn events are occurring both earlier and later in the
year, and the trends are less clear.
Impact of increasing concentration of CO2: Increase in CO2 concentration with accompanied

temperature alter the Crop-weed competition depending upon their photosynthetic pathway.
C3 crop growth would be favoured over C4 weeds. increase may alter the competition
depending upon the threshold ambient temperatures. Diseases and insect populations are
strongly dependent upon the temperature and humidity. Any increase in them, depending upon
their base value, can significantly alter their population, which ultimately results in yield loss.
With small changes, the virulence of different pests changes.
Impact on forest soils: The impact of increased temperature and precipitation change on
forests is through their influence on soil processes and properties. Terrestrial ecosystems
appear to be storing increasing amounts of carbon, largely attributed to increasing plant
productivity due to elevated CO2 concentration, increased temperature and soil moisture
changes. The soil carbon pool may be released as a result of warming and lessen due to less
biomass accumulation in the soils. Also change in nitrogen content of the soil is likely.
Impact on livelihoods: The tribal population, especially in the Red and Laterite region,
dependent on forests and its products may be affected due to shift in vegetation type in this
region. some of the forest products that are being extracted for livelihood are wood products
such as timber, bamboo, and fuel which go in the paper mills, match factories, coal mines and
other industries. Non wood products include Honey, wax, sal seeds, leaves, kendu leaves, lac,
sabai grass tassar silk, mohua, mushrooms, citronessa grass which are used as foodproducts. in
industries. for making dyes and varnishes, alcoholic beverages, deed oils, fruits and vegetables
and medicines. Some agricultural crops that are grown around forests are cotton, til, mustard,
and turmeric.
Increase in man and animal conflict: Climate change may adversely alter the production of
biomass and fruits on which the wild animals thrive. As a result, the animals may come in direct
conflict with man outside the forests. In West Bengal, man-animal conflict consists of direct
encounters and human casualties by elephants in the Northern hill region and Royal Bengal
tigers in the sundarbans region.
Impacts on access to energy: Again the population living in the forest fringes in the Red and
Laterite region and also in the Himalayan region may no longer have access to enough
firewood for their cooking and heating purpose.
Sequestration potential of forests: If climate change brings in slow growing broad leaved
vegetation, then sequestration potential of CO2 of the forests is likely to increease, provided the
forest area also substantially increases as envisaged in the national forest policy.
Strategies to address climate change Impacts

The Government of India has recently launched the Greening India Mission aimed at mitigation
and adaptation. The mission is meant to enhance ecosystem services such as carbon
sequestration and storage, biodiversity conservation and provision of biomass and NFTPs. The
mission aims at responding to climate change by a combination of adaptation and mitigation
measures with the aim towards enhancing carbon sinks in sustainably managed forests and
other ecosystems; adaptation of vulnerable species/ecosystems to the changing climate and
adaptation of forest dependent communities.
Planning commission, recently has put forward its perspective in management of environment
and ecology, and which includes adaptation to climate change impacts and mitigation of climate
change. As regards, forestry, it maintains that the livelihood rights of forest-based communities
need to be respected in conservation efforts, even as new livelihood and revenue options are
explored. some of the key issues that it is looking into are the current schemes of compensation,
Payments for Environmental Services (PES) that need to be introduced in various schemes,
where by locals will be compensated for conservation and management of resources. It is also
looking towards integration of proposals to prevent poaching of flagship species like tiger,
rhino, elephants, etc. Also it aims to to check fragmentation and degradation of wildlife habitats
and corridors, reduction in human–wildlife conflict; control illegal trade in wildlife products;
Creation of inviolate areas for tiger and other flagship species, and; Voluntary relocation of
people from core areas. In PES schemes, locals be paid to conserve and manage resources.
Based on the concerns in West Bengal about, a set of 9 strategies have been devised which are
also in line with the Green India Mission and the perspectives of the planning commission in
managing the environment and ecology. The strategies thus proposed are:
1. Spring recharge and enhancing ground water recharge in forest areas: The aim of this
strategy is to make the Northern hill region and the Red and laterite region water secure
areas in the state through appropriate management of the spring sheds in forested areas.
2. Enhancing quality of moderately dense forest, open forests, and degraded forests: The
aim of this strategy is to improve the health of these type of forests, improve the ecosystem
services and enhance the Carbon sequestration potential.
Actions for enhancing quality of forests would include- regulation and monitoring of invasive
species and identification of non-native species that can survive climate change and be
beneficial to the ecosystem, management of insects and other pathogens, Adoption of short
rotation species, preventing forest fragmentation by conserving contiguous forest patches, Eco
restoration of degraded open forests, and restoration of grass land.
Sustainable management of these forests would lead to increase in soil moisture content of the
forests, increase in biomass density, along with increase in the flow of forest goods like NTFPs,
fuel wood, hydrological services, improvement in biodiversity and enhancement in C
sequestration.
Additionally trees in notified forest patches which are threatened by expanding

urban/industrial development, Open spaces/green spaces like parks/wood lots set up on
municipal land, Diffused planting such as on avenues and in households and Institutional lands,
especially lands belonging to or allotted to business/industrial houses and educational
institutions can be explored for enhancing C sequestration, as well as for improving the quality
of soil, water and air of the immediate environment.
Schemes can be developed in the future, in which states having proven C sequestration potential
in their forests, can sell the surplus to other states and earn C Credits.
3. Linking Protected areas: Aim of this strategy is secure corridors to facilitate species
migration of both flora and fauna and adapt to climate change, especially for species with
limited dispersal ability.
It can be done through connecting fragmented forests with ‘Canopy Corridors’ and ‘Flyways’ to
assist species migration. Corridors will be prioritized and maintained by local stakeholders. As
for people living in these corridor areas, rapid agency responses to crop-raiding, man-animal
conflict, crop-insurance and hassle-free compensation would be some of the key interventions.
Special studies need to be launched to understand the feasibility of establishing such corridors
and their effectiveness vis a vis natural dispersion and assisted migration in the context of
climate change.
4. Mitigating impacts of land slides, storm surges and fast river run off- In northern hilly
regions of West Bengal and the saline coastal areas, disasters in the form of land slides due to
heavy rains and coastal erosion due to sea level rise and storm surges from cyclones are
expected to rise in their intensity. Therefore affrorestation activities on slopes to strengthen the
soil top and also planting of mangroves in degraded areas in the coast is necessary. Furthre, the
hydropower dams planned along the Teesta in the northern hills are also at risk of receiving
debris from Teesta run off as the temperatures increase and the discharge increases abruptly
due to glacier melting and GLOFs.
5. Enhanced fire prevention and fire management: The strategy for fire managemnet can be
two pronged, namely (i) early detection and management extended to higher altitudes,
including community participation in management of fireand (ii) planting species in forests,
immediately after the area is burnt with trees generated in the nurseries. Therefore nurseries
have to be set up of Sal, Oak, and Conifer with adequate saplings available for future
requirements. (iii) also considering that climate change is occurring, research needs to be
carried out to identify forest tree species that would adapt itself at different altitudes.
6. Preventing man animal conflict: The aim of this strategy is to have sustainable forests that
help wild life to thrive within the limits of the forests. Short term strategies could include
Community initiatives, and identification Identification of conflict areas and periods, Extensive
patrolling, Co-ordination with local community and administration etc can be taken up by the
DEFWM. Medium term initiative could include capcity building. strengthening communication
etc, senstization of policy makers etc. Long term strategies could be Population estimation of
key species, study on agriculture practices, phenological studies of wild edibles.
7. Understanding long term impacts of climate change on forests and monitor health of
forests and its C sequestration potential : . Monitoring the health of the forests and its
biodiversity needs to be carried out in all forest types,. The aspects that will be monitored
would include tree crown, tree growth, canopy structure etc.; ground vegetation, soil, forest
floor and wood debris. This will also help to track the C sequestration potential of the forests.
8. Faster penetration of renewable energy technologies for energy: The aim of his strategy is
to prevent forests from getting degraded due to over extraction of fuel wood and biomass for
fodder and fire as the climate warms.
9. Protecting livelihoods dependent on forest products: Livelihoods of rural population living

in the fringes of forests and depending on forest produce and other forest related activities may
face decline in earnings as the forest degrade with climate change. Therefore livelihood
protection is of utmost importance for these people. This can be achieved by enhanced forest-
based biomass in the form of food, fuelwood, grass/fodder, timber, bamboo, cane and NTFPs.
The augmented ecosystem services like water flows, biodiversity and carbon pools would
further provide opportunity for augmenting incomes. Rich biodiverse and cultural landscapes
could provide the potential to build up community-based eco tourism enterprises.
The strategies and actions there in are listed in Table 6 in Annexure 1.

8. Human Health
Introduction
The changing climate is affecting the basic requirements for maintaining health clean air and
water, sufficient food and adequate shelter. Each year, about 1.2 million people die world wide
from causes attributable to urban air pollution, 2.2 million from diarrhoea largely resulting from
lack of access to clean water supply and sanitation, and from poor hygiene, 3.5 million from
malnutrition and approximately 60,000 in natural disasters. A warmer and more variable
climate threatens to lead to higher levels of some air pollutants, increase transmission of
diseases through unclean water and through contaminated food, to compromise agricultural
production in some of the least developed countries, and to increase the hazards of extreme
weather.
Climate change also brings new challenges to the control of infectious diseases. Many of the
major killers are highly climate sensitive as regards temperature and rainfall, including cholera
and the diarrhoeal diseases, as well as diseases including malaria, dengue and other infections
carried by vectors. In sum, climate change threatens to slow, halt or reverse the progress that
the global public health community is now making against many of these disease.
Most of the diseases attributed to climate conditions are also influenced by the socio economic
parametres driven by different developmental paradigms resulting in creating conducive
environment for the occurrence and spread of the disease. Therefore, along with the
interventions of the advancing medical science and pharmacology, though disease are being
controlled, but the trends of the diseases over the years when seen in totality do not seem to be
exclusively driven by climate. However, it is known that that with climate change some of the
diseases may spread to newer areas and there might be emergence of new diseases as well.
Status of Disease profile related to climate in West Bengal
Water Borne Disease
Rise in temperature, rise in sea level, and erratic rainfall resulting in the floods and water
contamination lead to various water borne diseases in various parts of the state.
Of the water borne diseases; Cholera, Acute Diarrhoea Disease (ADD), and Enteric fever are
most prominently affected by the climate. These diseases are found at a quite high incidence in
the state. Over the last three years 2008-2010, the incidence rate and the mortality rate of these
diseases are found to be more or less constant. Among the different districts the annual
incidence rate of Acute Diarrhoea in Dakshin Dinajpur, Cooch Behar and Malda is found around
50/lakh population with an indication of constant persistent of the disease in this region.
The incidence rate of enteric fever though less in comparison to the diarrhoeal disease but
considering the large population the total number of cases seem to be a huge disease burden.
The annual attack rate of last three years report of different district of the state shows that the
disease is endemic in Bankura, Darjeeling, Malda, Purba Midnapore and Dakshin Dinajpur. Of
these districts, the annual report of Darjeeling seems to be alarming as the attack rate seems to
be increasing every year (3.5, 5.1, 7.5 in 2008-2009 and 2010 respectively.)
Table 8.1: Total cases and death due to diarrhoea and enteric fever reported in 2008-2010
Name of the Year 2008 Year 2009 Year 2010
Disease Cases Deaths Cases Deaths Cases Deaths
Diarrhoea 2613147 600 2412158 541 1945148 244
Enteric Fever 136171 68 133242 91 146725 76
300000
250000
200000
2009 Case
150000
2010 Case
100000
50000
0
Bankura
Birbhum
Burdwan
Dakshin Dinajpur
Darjeeling
Hooghly
Howrah
Jalpaiguri
Cooch Behar
Malda
Murshidabad
Nadia
North 24 Pgs
Paschim Medinipur
Purba Medinipur
Purulia
South 24 Pgs
Uttar Dinajpur
Figure 8. 1 : Incidence rate of Acute Diarrhoea Disease in districts of W.B

in 2009-2010
Cholera
Cholera caused by Vibrio cholerae has a direct link with the climate fluctuation and can lead to
not only local outbreak but world wide pandemic. The data available here only depicts the total
number of cases and death report of a single research lab of the state over a span of three years.
Though the whole scenario of the state is not available here but an idea of trend of the disease
can be concluded as though the number of case and the death number of the disease seems to be
decreasing but the existing number of the case in the last year is still high and Kolkata, North24
Parganas and South 24 Parganas seems to be a constant reservoir of the disease. In 2009 due to
Aila super cyclone, an outbreak of many diseases happened, amongst which cholera was
rampant. Therefore the positive rates in 2009 were very high when compared to other years.
In the year 2010, outbreak of cholera was observed in the three major districts of West Bengal.
During the month of May 90 patients suffered from Cholera in the district of Howrah along with
3 deaths. In the month of June another outbreak was reported in the district of Nadia with 287
cases and in the month of October 24 cases were reported in the district of Jalpaiguri. So, the
cholera outbreaks in these districts of West Bengal reports are total of 401 cases along with 3
deaths.
Table 8.2: Total number of case tested, confirmed and the positivity rate* reported from
National Institute Of Cholera And Enteric Diseases (2008-2010)
Name of Year 2009 Year 2010
the Total stool No of Positivity Total stool No of Positivity
V. cholerae
Disease 1388
samples 431
Confirmed 31.1
Rate 681
samples 150
Confirmed 22.0
Rate
Shigellae
causing 1388
examined 65
cases 4.7 681
examined 52
cases 7.6
Salmonella
pathogen 1388 7 0.5 681 7 1.0
*Positivity Rate- (No of Confirmed cases x 100) / Total stool samples examined
Vector Borne Disease
Climate changes and increase climate variability, specially flooding present an increased risk of
mosquito-borne disease epidemic. Increasing average temperature and greater variation in
precipitation facilitate vector production and parasite transmission which could change the
temporal and spatial distribution of the vector borne diseases. Studies between climate
variability and malaria show that rainfall is an important indicator for early warning of malaria.
Various studies reveal that the duration of sporogony in female Anopheles mosquito
(responsible for the transmission of malaria), decreases with increase in temperature from 20 0
to 250 C which in turn accelerate the ovarian development, egg laying and frequency of feeding
on host and thus the probability of transmission of disease
Among the vector borne diseases Malaria, Chikungunya, Dengue, Kalazar and Japanese
Encephalitis remain a constant threat in our state. In addition to the mortality, the disease
causes morbidity of millions of people resulting in loss of man days causing economic loss.
Table 8.3: Total case and death reported from 2008-2010 for vector borne diseases
Year 2008 Year 2009 Year 2010
Cases Deaths Cases Deaths Cases Deaths
Malaria 89443 104 137768 74 139204 46
Dengue 1038 7 399 0 805 1
Chikungunya 593 0 338 0 231 0
Kalazar 1256 3 756 0 1482 4
Japanese 52 3 57 5 5 0
Encephalitis
Malaria: Mainly Plasmodium vivax (Pv) and Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) are the pathogens
responsible for the malaria in this state. The positivity rate of Pf % has been found to be more
than 25% over the last three years and the Slide Positive Rate (SPR) remains 1.8 to 2.6
indicating a constant occurrence of the disease in this state. In West Bengal, Purulia, Jalpaiguri,
Kolkata, Murshidabad, West Midnapore are the highly endemic zone of the disease. The malaria
spread in West Bengal is shown in Figure 8.2.
However, total number of positive Malaria cases, total number of (Pf + Mix) cases and Slide
Positivity Rate (SPR) in Kolkata is always been alarmingly very high as compare to the rest of
the districts in West Bengal since last three years (2008-2010).
Figure 8.2: Recent endemic regions of Malaria in West Bengal
In the district of Nadia, North & Sought 24 Parganas, Dashing Dinajpur and Kolkata, the total
numbers of Malaria positive cases are gradually increasing in last three years, while in the
district of Purulia, Malda, Bankura, Cooch Behar and Darjeeling the total number of Malaria
positive cases are gradually decreasing.
In the district of Nadia, Sought 24 Parganas, Hooghly and Dakshin Dinajpur, the total numbers of
(Pf + Mix) cases are gradually increasing in last three years, while in the district of Purulia,
Burdwan, Bankura and Cooch Behar, it is gradually decreasing.
Pf % only increasing in the District of Darjeeling in last three years, while Pf % is decreasing in
the district of Nadia, Sought 24 Parganas, Howrah, Burdwan, Purulia, Bankura, Cooch Behar.
Slide Positivity Rate (SPR) is increasing in the district of Nadia, North & South 24 Parganas,
Dakshin Dinajpur and Kolkata in last three years and SPR is gradually decreasing in the district
of Purulia, Burdwan, Bankura, Malda, Uttar Dinajpur, Cooch Behar and Darjeeling.
Table 8.4: Total Malaria cases and percentage of Pf* in West Bengal from 2008-2010
Year Total Pf + Mix Pf % SPR
2008 89443 24453 27.34 2.00
2009 137768 37517 27.23 2.60
2010 139204 25190 18.10 2.54
* Pf%- (Pf+ Mix) x 100 / Total no of positive cases
Though number of incidences is increasing over the years, but a gradual decrease in the total
number of death has been observed in most of the districts of West Bengal in the past three
years including Nadia, South 24 Parganas, Murshidabad, Hooghly, Birbhum, West Midnapore,
East Midnapore, Purulia, Bankura, Uttar Dinajpur and Kolkata. Although, sudden rise in the
number of death, in the year of 2009 and again fall in the number of death was observed in the
district of Malda, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling.
Kala Azar: The blood feeding habit of the female sand fly, (the vector of Kalazar) increases
resulting in the acceleration of the transmission of the disease with the rise in temperature. The
endemic districts of the state for the disease are Darjeeling, Dakshin Dinajpur, Malda and
Murshidabad reporting individually almost more than 200 cases with Malda being highest
reporting 630 cases and 3 deaths in the last year. Spread of Kala azar across the state is shown
in Figure 8.3.
Figure 8.3: spread of Kalazar in West Bengal
Dengue: Both dengue virus development and female Aedes aegypti mosquito biting rates are
sensitive to temperature and the potential risk rises to approximate 31-47 % due to an
approximate 10C rise in temperature. Table 8.5 reveals that the case number over the last three
years has decreased and the mortality rate is very low but the details district reports suggests
that Kolkata, North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas still remain endemic with the number of
case being more than 50 indicating urbanization may be an important parameter for the
transmission as well as occurrence of the disease. Apart from these endemic zones a close
monitoring of the district report over the last three years reveals that there is a sharp rise in the
case number especially in the district of Bankura and Hooghly in 2010, when compared with the
last two years. This may be a result of Global Warming. See Figure 8.4 for spread of Dengue in
West Bengal.
Table 8.5: Sharp rise in dengue the case of two non-endemic district in West Bengal in 2008-
2010
District 2008 2009 2010
Bankura 4 2 54
Hooghly 23 6 33
Chikungunya: The out break of Chikungunya and the disease transmission mainly occurs due
to the rise of temperature and irregular precipitation. Various surveillance reports also reveals
that during drought the open house hold water container act as the ideal breeding place for
Aedes aegypti mosquito, the vector responsible for the disease. Figure 8.5 shows the spread of
Chikangunya in West Bengal.
There is a decreasing trend of the disease in the overall state no doubt but a close monitoring of
the district report shows that North 24Parganas, South 24 Parganas and Kolkata remains a
constant reservoir of the disease since last three years with a huge addition of the cases in Nadia
and Burdwan and a reported disease outbreak of this region in the last year seems to be
alarming as it indicates a very silent invading of the disease in the adjoining areas of the former
districts.
Japanese Encephalitis (JE)/AES: The disease Japanese Encephalitis (JE) caused by the female
Culex mosquito has a direct link with the climate variation as it has been proposed that certain
biotic and abiotic conditions favours the early seasonal amplification of virus and their
transmission. The increase in temperature favours the development of mosquitoes as well as
the viruses. In West Bengal, the number of Japanese Encephalitis cases were 52, 57 and 5 and
death report were 3, 5, and 0 in the year 2008, 2009, and 2010 respectively.
Table 8.6: Positivity Rate* of JE/AES from 2008-2010

Year No. of sample tested JE/AES Positive Death Positivity
Serum CSF Serum CSF (%)
2008 315 198 42 10 3 10.13
2009 454 259 41 16 5 (not serologically 7.99
2010 92 0 5 0 0
confirmed) 5.43
*Positivity Rate- (No of Confirmed cases x 100) / Total no of samples examined
Heat Stress
In tropical countries increase in number of duration of days of extreme temperatures causes

heat stress leading to mortality. In this region, the the maximum and minimum temperatures
are steadily rising, and the daily minimum temperature is rising faster than the daily maximum
temperature resulting in gradual reduction of diurnal range. Span and intensity of winters is
also decreasing. Winter temperature has increased by 0.4°C during the last 15 years ending in
2009 compared to the previous 15 years period and span of winter reduced by about a week
during the same period.
The surveillance report of sun stroke in West Bengal of last two years shows that the total
number of cases in 2009 and 2010 are 482 and 147 respectively with death reported to be 4
and 1 respectively. The most affected districts are Howrah (91 cases with 1 death), Nadia (44
cases), Paschim Midnapore (46 cases), Uttar Dinajpur (54 cases) and Birbhum (11 cases and 2
deaths) in 2009. However in 2010, the affected districts are Paschim Midnapore (53 cases), and
Purulia (33 cases and 1 death). Paschim Midnapore remains the constant affected district with
the number of cases increasing needs careful attention and monitoring.
Table 8.7 : Sun Stroke cases reported in 2009 & 2010 (Cases & Deaths)
2009 2010
Name Of the Disease
Case Death Case Death
Sun Stroke 482 4 147 1
Policies and Programmes to Manage Morbidity and Mortality
Health and Family Welfare Department. Funding for some of the projects is received from the
Central Government. The main programmes and projects that cover the climate related
diseases, currently under implementation in the State are:
o National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme

o Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme
o State Water Borne Disease Control Programme
o State Disaster Management Programme
In the State at present there are 9 Medical College Hospitals, 16 District Hospitals, 46 Sub
Divisional Hospitals, 35 State General Hospitals, 33 other hospitals, 93 Rural Hospitals, 253
Block Primary Hospitals, 921 Primary Health Centres and 10356 Sub Centres having total bed
strength of 54,627.
The organogram for the Public Health Branch in the Health Directorate is shown in figure 8.6a.
At the State level, the Coordination between the Urban Local Bodies and the Panchayati Raj
Institutions are maintained by the State Health & Family Welfare Samiti. At the District level the
Chief Medical Officer maintains the link with the urban local bodies and the Panchayati raj
institutions.
Organogram of Public
Health Directorate
Health Management
at District Level

Concerns related to Climate Change and Human Health in West Bengal
All populations will be affected by a changing climate, but the initial health risks vary greatly,
depending on where and how people live. People living in coastal regions of Sundarbans, the
megacity of Kolkata, and Hill zone, the Red and Laterite zone in West Bengal, and in the alluvial
plains are all particularly vulnerable in different ways.
Impacts on vulnerable population: Health effects are expected to be more severe for elderly
people and people with infirmities or pre-existing medical conditions. The groups who are likely
to bear most of the resulting disease burden are children and the poor, especially women. The
major diseases that are most sensitive to climate change – diarrhoea, vector-borne diseases like
malaria,dengue, kalazar, chikenguniya (a new entrant into the scenario) and infections
associated with under nutrition – are most serious in children living in poverty.
Newer areas of infiltration for vectors: Warming of the climate and the variable precipation
across space, may offer newer sites of breeding of the vectors, pathogens, and bacteria. For
example one study carried out to understand the likely spread of malaria in India (Bhattacharya
et al., 2006) indicates that malaria may shift to higher altitudes.
Also it is noticed that vector borne diseases are becoming more and more endemic in cities, for
example in the city of Kolkata, the total number of malaria incidences was 60% of the total
malaria occurrence in the state in 2010. Clearly the endemic regions are the North Kolkata,
around Calcutta medical college, around Kalighat, and in Garden reach.This is mostly because of
the disturbance of the ecology of the region that naturally controls the pests and diseases
arising out of rampant changes in land use, disturbing the draingae systems etc. Climate change
indicating a temperature rise and likelyhood of occurrence of extreme precipitation events may
lead to further retention of moisture in the ground and vegetation leading to more proliferation
of all vector borne diseases.
Increase in incidences of morbidities due to increase in extreme heat events: Similarly an

analysis of the occurrence of extreme temperatures (Sharma et al, 2001, private
communications) using the outputs of PRECIS regional climate model driven by A1B scenario,
indicates, that West Bengal is a state susceptible to very high temperatures and the number
days that the extreme temperatures is likely to persist is increasing under this scenario in 2030s
wrt to base line i.e 1960-1990.
Higher damages, morbidity and mortality due to increase in intensity of cyclones: Using a
running average of high intensity cyclone frequencies in the northern Bay of Bengal area,
scientists from Indian meteorological Department have observed a 26% rise in the frequency of
high to very high intensity cyclones over the last 120 years. With rise in sea surface
temperatures, the frequency and intensity of the cyclones likely to increase in the future,
causing more morbidities and deaths, in addition to damages to property.
Increase in water borne diseases: Recurrent flooding in flood plains, and incursion of sea
water on land due to cyclones, storm surges and sea level rise, is another concern for West
Bengal. Though now much of it is not translated into disease, but with increase in sea surface
temperature, algal bloom is likely to increase and may be carried over to land with sea level rise.
This then may be concern for increase in diaorrhea cases in the future in that region. This will
be in addition to contamination of water due to increase in salinity. This can ofcourse be averted
if safe piped drinking water is supplied to the community or the community is advised on safe
measures to purify available water.
Increase in respiratory diseases due to increase in pollution loads as temperatures
increase: Warmer and wetter climates are also detrimental to the population in cities as the
levels of pollution go up. With increase in the road transport and other polluting sources in the
cities, the warmer atmosphere may lead to more morbidity in the future affecting the
productivity of the population. This is not only true for the city of Kolkata but will become a
reality as urbanisation is increasing in the tier II and tier III cities of West Bengal.
Increase in morbidity/mortality due to increase in landslides: In the hilly regions of West

Bengal, incidences of landslides are likely to increase with increase in intense precipitation as
the climate warms. The hill people might be susceptible to such events, losing lives and
property. Therefore, steps need to be taken not only to ameliorate the cause but also steps
towards disaster preparedness and early warning from the health point of view is essential.
New and emerging diseases: Climate change combined with increased global mobility is
resulting in previously unforeseen evolution of newly emerging infectious diseases worldwide
and re-emergence of diseases previously under control and redistribution of diseases across the
planet. Experts in climate change, climate policy, emerging infectious diseases and public health
need to discuss the relevant and pressing issues that we as a global community face, and
possible solutions that can be instituted.
Improved health conditions for all populations, alongside more rapid and effective disease
surveillance, and systematic changes to address climate change while practicing agriculture,
forestry and developing infrastructure, will constitute a vital contribution to the public health
security in West Bengal.
Strategies and Actions

Climate change concerns have now been included as part of the State Health Policy. The other
strategies that can strengthen the health policy vis a vis climate change can be as follwos:
o Strengthening the surveillance with an integrated approach for management of
- vector borne diseases (in different agro meteorological zones)
- water borne diseases (coastal and inland)
o Dealing with population displacements during extreme events
o Strengthening surveillance and management of Malnutrition and addressing food
security issues along with the Social Welfare Department
o Strengthening disaster preparedness for Cyclones, floods and droughts including the
management of psychological impacts
o Monitoring Air pollution and related respiratory tract diseases
o Initiating research to study the interplay of climate change and its impact on health
o Enhancing capacity of the institutions to address climate change related human health
challenges
o Addressing Knowledge gaps
See Table 7, Annexure 1 for detailed strategies, actions, timelines and budgets for the health
sector
9. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Introduction
The National Action Plan for Climate Change (NAPCC) emphasises the need for large scale
investment of resources in infrastructure, technology and access to energy, towards attainment
of India’s development agenda which seeks eradication of poverty and improved standard of
living. The NAPCC states that “In view of the large uncertainties regarding the spatial and
temporal magnitude of climate change impacts, .the need is to identify and prioritise strategies
that promote development goals while also serving specific climate change objectives.” The
strong positive correlation between energy use and human development is well recognised and
a substantial increase in per capita energy consumption is anticipated while attaining an
acceptable level of well-being amongst the citizens.
This section seeks to first set the context for the energy demand and supply situation in the
state of West Bengal. It then focuses on the electricity sector, analyses the legal and institutional
framework within which sector governance takes place and examines the roles of the key
stakeholders. With this as background, a critical examination of GHG emission estimates is
undertaken to identify and prioritise strategies that serve specific climate change objectives
enunciated by the state.
Energy Use in the State
The primary fuel used in the residential sector in the state is predominantly biomass and fossil
fuels. In rural West Bengal (NSSO11, 2005), Firewood/Biomass is reported as the predominant
fuel for cooking in 74% of the households, with dung cake (4%), LPG (4%) and the remaining
using other fuel sources including coke/coal.
Kerosene is the predominant fuel source for
lighting reported by 65% of the households,
with the remaining households mostly
dependent on electricity. The urban scenario
is markedly different with LPG (46%) being
the predominant fuel for cooking, followed by
coal (19%), biomass (13%) and Kerosene
(11%). Electricity (87%) is the predominant
fuel source for lighting in urban households
followed by Kerosene. While data on the
commercial sector is not available, one would
assume that the trend follows a marginally
progressive version of the residential sector
for these end-uses. It is a ssumed that motive
power in the commercial segment would be
from petroleum-based fuels or electricity.
11 st
MoSPI. (2007). Energy Sources of Indian Households for Cooking and Lighting, 2004-05. NSS 61 Round (July
2004 - June 2005). National Sample Survey Organisation.
In West Bengal, 96% of the current electricity generation, is from coal-based generating
stations, while the remaining is mostly from hydro-power sources with a miniscule share from
solar. The state sector has an installed electricity generation capacity 12 of 10,398 MW (2010)
and generated13 29,284 MU in FY 2010 through state and private generation stations. In
Addition, the central sector generating stations generated an additional 17,363 MU in locations
within the state. The absolute emissions from electricity generation in the state (CEA14 2011),
amounted15 to 53.14 Mt of CO2 in FY 2009-’10.
The State level Perspective Power Planning Committee (2006) has projected 16 the aggregate
demand for electricity to be between 66,368 and 71,351MU by FY 2021, based on scenarios 17
generated from economic trends, assuming a CAGR of 4% for the domestic segment, 6% for
commercial and 3.5% for industry. The peak demand is projected to be between 8,937 and
10,871 MW in 2021 increasing to about 14,730 MW by 2031. In FY 2008, the state faced a
shortfall in meeting energy demand (1188 MU) and also experienced peak-load deficits to the
tune of 296 MW.
The state consumes (2010) about 5.5 Mt of

petroleum products annually, of which Diesel
(1.9 Mt) and Petrol (0.27 Mt) together account
for 42% of the state consumption. The
transport segment would be the end-use for
most of this consumption. Kerosene and LPG
together account for 26% of the annual
consumption, with the predominant end-use
likely to be cooking/lighting in the residential
and commercial segments. Aviation accounts
for 4% of the annual consumption, while
Naphtha and Furnace Oil accounting for 18% Figure 9.2: Petroleum Product Consumption in West
of the annual consumption are likely to be Bengal, 2007-'08
consumed in the industrial and electricity
generation segments.
The vehicle population (transport + non-transport) has witnessed a CAGR of 9% over the 1997-
2006 period. With nearly 3 million vehicles operating in the state by the end of March 2006,
two-wheelers account for 64% of the vehicle population and have witnessed a CAGR of 10%,
while auto-rickshaws accounting for less than 2% of the vehicle population have experienced a
CAGR of 11%. Four-wheeler passenger vehicles account for slightly less than 20% of the vehicle
12
Source: CEA Database, 2009
13
Central Electricity Authority, 2011
14
CEA. (2011). CO2 Baseline Database, Ver. 6.0. Central Electricity Authority.
15
Of this 35.11 Mt of CO2 is directly from state and private sector generation, while 18.03 Mt of CO 2 is from
central sector generation.
16
The Committee had concluded that projection beyond 2019-’20 is of little significance as the technology
development cannot be firmly envisaged.
17
Scenario I assume a CAGR of 4.28% for Peak Energy based on analysis of data from FY 2000 to FY 2005, For
Energy demand this scenario assumes a CAGR of 5.16% based on analysis over the same period. Scenario II has
projections estimated from a 10 year trend of energy sale with adjustment for captive capacities.
population and have a CAGR of 7%. Buses account for only two percent of the vehicles
registered, while good vehicles account for 8 percent.
Thus, the energy needs of the residential18, commercial and industrial segments in the state are
predominantly from fossil fuels and account for xxxx19 Mt of CO2 emissions) on an annual basis.
Electricity Supply, Consumption and Management
The Electricity sector underwent restructuring after the amendment in the national electricity
Act (2003). The power development and supply arrangements are regulated by the West Bengal
Electricity Regulatory Commission, which fixes tariffs and directs the generation, transmission
and distribution utilities on the annual plans and quantum of power flows within their grid
systems. The key generation, transmission and distribution entities are detailed in Table (9.1)
below with a broad demarcation of roles, ownership and geographical coverage.
Table 9.1: Key Players in Electricity Generation, Distribution & Use, West Bengal
Entity Sector Roles Particulars
Calcutta Electricity Supply Private Generation Covers the city of Kolkata and
Company (CESC) & suburban areas of Howrah,
Distribution Hooghly, 24 - Parganas (N), 24 -
Parganas (S) Districts
Disergarh Power Supply Company Private Generation Sells power to WBSEDCL
(DPSC)
West Bengal State Electricity State Distribution Covers the whole of the state
Distribution Company Ltd. except the command area of
(WBSEDCL) other utilities, supplies bulk
power to CESC
West Bengal Power Development State Generation Sells power to WBSEDCL and
Corp. Ltd. outside state, Manages Thermal
(WBPDCL) Generation
Durgapur Projects Limited (DPL) State Generation 390 MW installed capacity and
and supplies power to Durgapur city
Distribution
National Thermal Power Central Generation Manages generation through
Corporation (NTPC) thermal stations in West Bengal
and Hydro stations in Bhutan and
Sikkim
Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) Central Generation Manages multipurpose river
and project. DVC supplies power at
Distribution HV in the districts of Bankura,
Barddhaman, Howrah, Hooghly
and Purulia and caters to the
core sector consumers like
18
A UNDP-ESMAP study (2001) found that in the households of rural West Bengal 87 per cent of total
energy consumption is due to cooking, 5 per cent due to domestic lighting and the remaining 8 per cent
is the share of water heating.
19
This figure is to be taken form the GHG inventory data for the final version of the Action Plan.
Entity Sector Roles Particulars

Railways, Collieries, Steel.
West Bengal Renewable Energy State Renewable Established in 1993 with the
Development Agency Energy objective of promoting
Generation Renewable Energy Technologies
and Use
West Bengal Green Energy State Renewable Created by Department of Power
Development Corporation Ltd. Energy & NES, to promote different grid
Generation connected renewable energy
and Use based power projects through
private sector and also to ensure
investment of private sector in
Renewable Energy system
manufacturing.
Source: Compiled from organisation websites, Ministry of Power and NES, GoWB
Electricity generation in the state is mostly coal-based (96%) at the Thermal Power Stations
located in central and southern parts of the state (at the “chicken’s neck” in Murshidabad and
around Kolkata in Barddhaman, Hooghly and South 24 Parganas), with some hydro-power
being generated in Darjeeling district. The Perspective Plan for the Power sector (2006) had
proposed coal-fired and gas-based power stations in Birbhum, Barddhaman, near Raniganj and
Bajora coal fields and near the industrial cluster of Haldia. An estimated 2,000 MW of captive
power generation exists in the state. While some large ones operate on waste-heat, most are
stand-by sets using petroleum products. Small captive sets (in the jute mills) are reportedly
running on Furnace Oil. Intra-state transmission projects have been implemented over the
2007-2011 period with assistance from RIDF and PFC and new transmission lines for
evacuating power from proposed generating stations are being executed under the eleventh
plan. This is aimed at removing existing bottlenecks in evacuation of power from the southern
part of the state and also in preparation of importing power to the eastern region grid.
In terms of consumption, Industries which account for nearly half of the state electricity
consumption are located in clusters around Kolkata (Bantala, Dhankuni, Haldia, Falta),
Kharagpur, Durgapur, Asansol (all towards the southern part) and Siliguri with upcoming
centres at Chandmoni, Rajarhat and Haldia. The domestic household category which accounts
for more than a quarter of the state’s electricity consumption is spread across the state with
markedly increased access in urban areas. Only 49 percent20 of the rural households have access
to electricity (March, 2009) and the concerted efforts in rural electrification under the RGGVY
have been reported during 2009-’10. While results of this initiative are awaited, it is assumed
that rural penetration could improve up to 75% by 2015. This would indicate about 3-4 million
unconnected households, who could be using biomass21 or kerosene for lighting and cooking.
The commercial establishments account for 12 percent of the electricity consumption in the
state. It is estimated that about 25,000 hotel rooms operate in the state (2007) with
requirements for water heating22. It is projected that this requirement would be about 20 Ml
annually by 2015, with possibly an equal demand from the clinics and hospitals segment.
The strategy for augmenting power generation in the state to meet anticipated and un-satisfied
demand, drafted in 2006 anticipates a state sector dominated power industry in West Bengal.
For augmenting electricity generation, Coal reserves in the Asansol-Durgapur-Purulia-Birbhum
belt have been targeted, while gas sources are dependent on fructification of the Bangladesh
pipeline or offshore discoveries under NELP II and III. The Coals-bed methane potential is
significant and offers as better environment option. The untapped hydro-potential is
highlighted, but availability of land and issues of displacement pose significant deterrent.
Renewable sources offer options, with potential estimates as detailed in Table (9.2) below.

Energy Source Potential (MW) Cumulative
Achievement
(MW)
Wind (w/o offshore) 450 3
Biomass 350 80
20
Source: Economic Review, 2009-‘10
21
There are about 0.2 million biogas plants installed in the state. An evaluation study by the Planning
Commission had reported that 95% of the plants were in use (PC, 2002). However, it is also reported that the
majority of the users are well-to-do farmers with adequate landholding. So most of the un-connected
households are not expected to be biogas users.
22
Greentech. (2010). Solar Water Heaters in India: Market Assessment Studies and Surveys for Different
Sectors and Demand Segments. This report projects 52,022 hotel rooms requiring water heating by 2015. It
also estimates about 50,000 hospital beds in the state requiring about 10,000 sq.m. of solar water heaters by
2013.

Energy Source Potential (MW) Cumulative
Achievement
(MW)
Small Hydro 300 100
Solar Photovoltaic 16,000 11
Solar Thermal 400
Solar Roof-top 300
Urban & Industrial Waste 150 0
All Sources 17,950 194
Source: Draft Renewable Energy Policy - West Bengal (PWC, 2010) and WBREDA (2010)
The cumulative achievement (till December 2010) on the renewable front has been limited to
small hydro-power and Biomass (Gasification and combustion systems). While performance on
tapping solar energy seems rather slow, it gains significance in comparison with the progress
nationally. Solar Thermal power generation does not work with diffused radiation, whereas
solar PV works with moderately low solar radiation and diffused conditions. The solar
photovoltaic route is felt suitable for the state, while only low temperature (up to 120 deg) solar
thermal needs to be considered in the initial phase. While significant potential exists for
renewable sources, geographic location, end-use function, technology diffusion and grid-parity
pricing will be key determinants in technology penetration.
National Mission, Policy Environment and Risks
The Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) seeks to create policy conditions
necessary to promote the diffusion of solar energy use all over the country. The existing
incentives and support measures have been strengthened and made more effective.
The following are some of the fiscal and policy incentives available now for production and use
of solar energy systems:
 100% foreign direct investment allowed in manufacturing and power projects;
 Zero customs and excise duties on wafers, solar cells, modules and some raw materials,
5% customs and excise duty on other raw materials and components;
 Tax holiday for manufacturing units in backward and specified areas, and for power
projects;
 80% depreciation in the first year for capital investments on solar projects; and
 Support for R&D and technology validation projects.
The JNNSM seeks to be a game-changer by growing the photovoltaic market to a Giga-Watt

annually and the solar thermal market from nothing to a Giga-Watt over a decade. This kind of
growth is expected to stimulate investments in new manufacturing facilities, and also the
demand for a variety of materials such as poly-Silicon, solar glass and encapsulates. However,
the risks and uncertainties also need to be noted:
 The physical targets are staggering and the phasing envisages about 16,000 MW of solar
power capacity to be installed in the last five years (capacity-addition of 60 MW every
week);
 Scale up of manufacturing will be particularly difficult in the solar thermal area, where
there is no base in the country yet and where there only a limited number of technology
providers;Financial Mobilization is high - an estimated investment of Rs.250,000 Crore
will have to be mobilized23 over the next 12 years, with the last five years averaging
Rs.37,500 Crore annually;
 Requirement of Land is a contentious issue – About 100,000 acres of land need to be
acquired over the next decade. As this will be distributed over 10-12 states, there is
need for state governments to facilitate acquisition and necessary clearances. It would
also be worthwhile to examine other options like creation of multi-purpose
infrastructure or providing energy incentives to land-owners for settling this issue
amicably.
 Performance assessment of Mega-Watt scale plants perform in the Indian grid
conditions which are quite different from conditions in Europe and USA. There is the
risk of the solar plants being cut off from the grid owing to frequency fluctuations and
unsteady grid operations. There is also the fact that solar radiation data in many
locations is insufficient for making reliable assessments of likely generation in a year;
 The favourable policy environment envisaged in the National Solar Mission has to be
sustained over the entire life of the mission. It is not clear how long the present
arrangement based on a supportive feed-in tariff will continue beyond 2013;
 The achievement of grid-parity by 2022, which is a key goal of the mission, depends on
the realization of volume production and lower costs of production of modules and
other items of equipment. At the same time, the demand and deployment will increase
substantially only if the costs come down to a significant extent. Innovative mechanisms
will be needed to bridge this time horizon.
Energy Saving Potential in West Bengal
West Bengal consumed 27,821 MU in FY 2008 with Industrial consumers being the single
largest category accounting for 47% of the annual energy consumption followed by Domestic
category accounting for 25% and Commercial category with 11 percent. Public water works and
sewage pumping consumed 2 percent of the annual energy sales, while agriculture accounted
for 4 percent.The “Assessment of Energy Conservation Potential in West Bengal” carried out by
the NPC in 2009 provides the following estimates of possible savings in energy consumption, as
detailed in Table (9.3) below:
Table 9.3: Energy Saving Potential in West Bengal

User Category Potential User Category Annual
Saving (MU) Consumption (MU) in 2007-'08
Agriculture (only for irrigation pump sets) 333 1,110
Commercial (115 Buildings considered) 67 3,044
Municipalities (Public Lighting) 35 255
Municipalities (Water works & sewage) 53 478
Domestic 1,400 6,985
SME Industries Clusters (Cold Storage, Rice 62 370
Mill and Tea)
23
assuming an average rate of Rs.12.5 Crore per MW
All Industries 903 12,844

Total 2,791
Source: NPC, 2009
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) ‘Energy Star Rating and Labelling Program’ for domestic
appliances initiated as a voluntary program for appliance manufacturers in May 2006, has been
guiding the consumers on energy efficiency aspects of several commonly used home appliances.
Since 7th January 2010, energy star labelling of room air conditioners, frost free refrigerators,
and tubular fluorescent lamps has been made mandatory by BEE. It is expected that more home
appliances will be gradually come under the mandatory provision of the program. The ECO-III
Project with USAID/APP funding, has established three Regional Energy Efficiency Centres
(REECs) in India, including the one at Kolkata keeping in view the Energy Conservation Act,
2001 and programs of Bureau of Energy Efficiency.
Under the National Mission on Energy Efficiency, the state energy conservation Fund was
initiated in 2010, with initial contributions from BEE. This is primarily targeted to conduct
benchmark studies for establishing energy savings potential in SME and Buildings, to draft the
waste heat recovery policies for 20 identified industry types, DPR preparation for energy
conservation ESCOs and Municipal DSM. The State Development Agency has also entered into a
tripartite agreement with private investor and BEE towards establishing the “Bachat Lamp
Yojana” in September 2010, with storage of material and awareness campaign being the
responsibility of the WBSEDCL, while the investor bears the cost of the installation and
replacement. The SDA also carries out awareness programs for the public (TV, Print, Book Fair),
school children, Industry (workshops through PCRA), training support for energy managers and
auditors, energy audits. An LED village campaign has been initiated in North 24 Parganas,
while LED conversion of street lighting in the KMC area has been initiated with 50:50 financing.
In West Bengal the electricity consumption in the domestic sector is about 30% of total
electricity consumption in the state. To raise energy efficiency awareness of public at large, the
West Bengal Renewable Energy Agency (WBRDEA) with support from West Bengal Government
and USAID has established a ‘Regional Energy Efficiency Centre (REEC) for Home Appliances’ at
Kolkata.
Impacts of Climate Change
The envisaged climate change could impact different components of the electricity sector as
outlined in Table (9.4) below. The list is indicative (and needs further development) and is more
to identify risk-mitigation measures in energy systems that would need to be planned along
with other adaptation mechanisms enunciated in the strategy later in this section.

Climate Change Indicators Impacts on the Electricity Sector
Hydrological Variability (greater Variability in Hydropower generation
seasonal and year-to-year variability in Variability in water availability for Thermal
precipitation, more frequent and Generation
prolonged extreme events like drought Biomass availability vulnerable to water cycle
or heavy rainfall) impacts affecting household energy security

Climate Change Indicators Impacts on the Electricity Sector
Could impact renewable generation potential,
especially solar
Threat of damage to infrastructure from extreme
events
Increased Temperature Impacts Hydropower generation in summer months
Increased requirements of water for cooling in

Thermal generation
Increased need of energy in household sector for
cooling
Could impact renewable generation potential,
especially solar
Given the intergenerational character of energy planning decisions, the long life span of energy
infrastructure 15-30 years for power plants and 30-40 years for transmission lines and the
expected rise in energy demand, it is important to understand the potential vulnerabilities of
energy services due to climate consequences. The formal knowledge base is still at an early
stage of development (ESMA 2011), particularly for assets that are indirectly weather
dependent (eg. Thermal power, transmission). Renewable energy plays a key role in future low
carbon emission plans aimed at limiting global warming. However, its dependence on climate
conditions makes it also susceptible to climate change.
Thus, the current electricity generation and demand scenario outlined above can be
summarised as follows:
 Energy demand24 is likely to increase by nearly 2.5 times by 2021 and 3.5 times by 2031.
Peak demand is likely to increase by 1.5 times by 2031.
 The electricity generation sector within the state will continue to be a large contributor
to GHG emissions, as per the plans outlined in the state perspective plan. However,
opportunities exist to mitigate this moderately through:
o Shift in fuel-mix for generation from coal/gas towards benign solar/wind
o Bringing down energy demand through efficiency improvements in T&D and
end-use
o Bringing down peak demand through end-use behavioural change and
technology
o Increased generation efficiencies and emission controls
 The electricity sector will continue to be the backbone of economic growth and will need
to be buffered from attendant risks emanating from climate change – hydrologic
variability, extreme events and performance variations from change in ambient
conditions.
Key Elements of Strategy
24
According to the Planning commission, Primary energy supply will have to grow by 5.8% per year through
2031-’32 to support a growth rate of 9% annually. If these assumptions hold, the increased demand is likely to
be on the higher side.
The key elements of a multi-pronged strategy for mitigation and adaptation are outlined below:
1. Plan for reduced CO2 emissions compared to BAU scenario
I. Increase grid power generation from renewable – xx% of capacity addition
2012-2022
i. Solar PV for large scale power (as it works in low and diffused solar
radiation cases) in districts (e.g. Purulia, Bankura) where wasteland is
available (or abandoned mine areas)
II. Replace use of grid power for certain end-uses through low temperature solar
thermal – e.g. water heating
2. Reduce anticipated energy and peak demand in the BAU scenario
I. Demand-side Energy efficiency measures in identified consumer categories
through
i. Efficient-device penetration facilitated by financial, supply chain and
market incentives
ii. Adequate financial incentives for lowering specific consumption
iii. State-led adoption for enabling critical volumes of devices and
technologies in local market and breaking current cost barriers
II. Supply-side energy efficiency measures
i. Enabling lower system losses (technical and commercial)
ii. Enabling improved efficiencies in energy production
3. Risk mitigation of anticipated impacts from Climate change through
I. Improved risk assessment of supply infrastructure (including lifeline
infrastructure) for likely scenarios of climate change
II. Investment and implementation of infrastructure-strengthening initiatives to
cope with extreme events
See Table 8 and 9 in Annexure 1, for details of adaptation and mitigation strategies, actions,
timelines and costs.
Chapter 10: Towards Sustainable Habitats
Introduction
West Bengal is the fourth most populous state in India, with a population of 91.35 25 million
residing in an area of 88,752 skm. The overall density of population (Census, 2011) is 1029
persons/skm., and the sex ratio is 94726. The child population (less than six years of age) makes
up 11% of the total population. The state has added 11.17 million to its population over the
2001-2011 decade, an annual growth rate of 1.39 percent.
The state exhibits significant diversity in climatic conditions, being a geographic area extending
from the snow-covered Himalayas in the north through the alluvial plains to the deltaic and
coastal environs of the Bay of Bengal in the south. The Hill region, which is warm-humid to hot-
humid is mainly forest area intercepted by terraced land under cultivation with field and
plantation crops. The soils of the steep hill slopes are shallow in depth with high potential for
erosion, while the soils in the foothills have moderate depth with moderate potential for
erosion. The Terai and Teesta Alluvial region is hot-humid and the soils are moderately deep
to deep. About 20% of the land is prone to inundation and water logging. The Laterectic, red
and gravely undulating region in the west, coincides with hot-moist sub-humidity and hot-dry
sub-humidity. This region comprises most of the Gangetic plain, where lowland soils are rich in
fertility and upland soils are generally deficient in nutrients and prone to erosion. The Coastal
Alluvial region is moist sub-humid and the soils in this region are imperfectly drained with
moderate to high salinity hazards. Due to the predominance of Magnesium, the soils become
hard and dry and non-porous when wet, impeding drainage. The Gangetic Alluvial region is
hot moist sub-humid, and comprises the non-saline alluvial region mostly to the north and
eastern part of the river Ganga. Upland soils are light and aid recharge. Groundwater potential is
high and aquifer is mostly unconfined. The Vindhya Alluvial region is hot moist sub-humid
type and is centrally located. About 10% of the region is susceptible to flooding, caused by
impeded drainage and river overflows. Water from three major river valley projects flow
through this area. There is significant variation in rainfall patterns across regions of the state,
as represented in Figure 5.1a in Chapter 5.
A significant part of the state is relatively backward economically, and also tends to be
less advanced in terms of human development (WB HDR, 2004). These include large parts of the
six northern districts (Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Koch Behar, Malda, Uttar Dinajpur and Dakshin
Dinajpur), the three western districts (Purulia, Bankura and Birbhum) and the Sunderbans
area of the two 24 Parganas districts in the south of the state.
Demography and Settlements

Rural West Bengal accounts for 96% of the geographical area and accommodates 72 per cent of
the state population (Census, 2001) in 37,109 inhabited villages. More than half (54%) of the
rural population reside in 17% of the villages with population greater than 2,500, while 30% of
25
Provisional Population Totals, Census of India 2011
26
Females per 1000 males
the rural population resides in 29% of the villages that have a population between 1,000 and
2,500. Urban West Bengal accounts for nearly four percent of the state’s geographical area and
accommodates 28 percent of the population. Amongst the urban centres, the skew is more
evident with 84% of the urban population residing in 27 Class – I cities (with a population of
more than 100,000). The scheduled caste population make up 27% of the rural population and
13% of the urban population, while scheduled tribes comprise seven per cent of the rural and a
little more than one per cent of the urban population. Among the minorities, the Muslims
account for about 25% of the total population in West Bengal. Thus, these three categories – SC,
ST and Minorities – who are reportedly the three poorest social groups in rural West Bengal,
together account for more than half the population of the state.
Figure 10.1: Distribution of Population by Size Class of Towns
Figure 10.2: Distribution of Population by Size Class of Villages, 2001
A fundamental feature of West Bengal is the very high population density, which is nearly three
times the national population density. Historical and socio-economic factors have determined
the present very high density of population in the state. Apart from the internal migration from
the neighbouring states to Calcutta, Haora and other industrial areas of the state, the Partition
of 1947 led to an almost continuous stream of migrants into the State from across the
Indo-Bangladesh borders. The phenomenal growth of population in some of the Northern
districts such as Koch Behar and West Dinajpur and also in the Southern districts of Nadia and
24 Parganas during the period up to

1991 signifies the enormity of this
migration. Subsequently, the districts
with international borders have
exhibited a decelerating population
growth rate, while the non-border
districts accounted for more than half
of the decadal growth, indicating a
spatial diffusion of population, when
considered along with the moderate
vital rates. With a population density of
1,029 persons (per skm.) in 2011, West
Bengal is currently the most densely
populated state in the country.
Nearly a quarter of the rural

households and 2% of the urban
households reside in kutcha houses,
while 39% of the rural households and
8% of urban are reported resident in Figure 10.3: Population Density by C.D. Blocks - West Bengal (2001)
semi-pucca houses with the remaining Source: West Bengal Human Development Report 2004
36% (rural) and 91% (urban) in pucca houses (NSSO, 2010). Fifty per cent of rural households
and 93% of urban households had access to electricity (NSSO, 2010). Eighty-seven per cent of
rural households and 88% of urban households had access to safe drinking water (Census,
2001), which was better than the national average. Seventy-three per cent of rural households
and 15% of urban households did not have access to toilets (Census 2001), improving to 36%
rural households without toilets and 10% without access in urban areas (NSSO, 2010).
Trends in Urbanisation
West Bengal is one of the highly urbanized States of India with 28 per cent of population
residing in urban areas. In West Bengal the urban population grew from 10.97 million to 22.43
million during the 1971-2001 period but this huge population lives within four per cent of the
total geographic area of the State which has resulted highest population density in the country
of 6798 persons per sq. km. with the density for Kolkata Metropolitan Area (KMA) working out
to around 8000 persons per sq. km.
The total urban population of West Bengal is spread across 127 Statutory Towns (Municipalities
and Municipal Corporations) and 250 Census Towns (CT). While this amounts to nearly 28% of
total state population, the statutory towns of West Bengal account for about 87% of the total
urban population of the state, while the Census Towns house the remaining 13% (ASCI, 2011).
There has been a gradual increase in the percentage of total state urban population living in CTs
from 5.76% in 1971 to 12.72% in 2001. The compound annual growth rate of population living
in CTs (5.35%) is more than twice the rate of the population living in statutory towns (2.35%)
in West Bengal. Very high growth rate (greater than 5 per cent) of population in some specific
Census Towns like Chak Bansberia, Phulia, Khandra and Bankra may be contributing to this
trend
The process of urbanization in West Bengal also distinguishes itself from the general trend for
the country as a whole. Small urban centres like census towns have emerged all over the State,
increasing from 137 in 1991 to 253 in 2001. While the urbanisation rate in West Bengal is 28%,
(just more than the national average), the state has also a higher percentage of main workers 27
within the tertiary sector - 44%, compared to the all-India average of 33%. Land area under
non-agricultural uses is higher in West Bengal (19%) than in India (8%). The land-use data over
2003-2006 seem to indicate decrease in net sown area and corresponding increase in land for
non-agriculture use. The trend is most discernible in Purulia, followed by Nadia and South 24
Parganas and then Barhaman, where non-agriculture land stock is emerging from barren and
forest land too. Increased rural population densities are discernible in Uttar Dinajpur, Dakshin
Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, Nadia and Cooch Behar, pointing to a possible stress on urban
infrastructure and services in these districts or good intra-district access or artisanal work (that
allows working from home in connection with enterprise in urban area – e.g. piece work) that
permits rural residence and urban work. The trend of growth of non-agricultural land, decrease
in net sown area, increasing population densities, increasing share of industrial workers and
traders, growth in road networks point to rural areas (and significantly the peri-urban areas) of
the state acquiring urban character.
Kolkata is the second largest urban agglomeration with a population of 13.2 million as per 2001
census. The core area of Kolkata urban agglomeration such as Kolkata and Howrah Municipal
Corporation areas show one of the lowest growth rates during 1991-2001 compared to the
growth rates of 1981-1991. On the other hand, the peripheral area shows a reversal in the
growth pattern in the decade 1991-2001 compared to the growth rates of core areas - the
peripheral area registered three times growth in 1991-2001 compared to 1981-91.
While the spread of urbanization has positive impacts and created opportunities, it has also
created many problems that act as barriers to improved quality of life. The cities are faced with
problems of inequality, increased competition for basic needs and competition in access to
essential services, socio-political and economic institutions and health threats. With increasing
sprawl in the bigger cities and non-regulated peri-urban expansion in the smaller towns, it is
expected that climate change and associated environmental stress will make the poor more
vulnerable.
Given the spatial economic and social diversity in the regions and the state, urbanisation has
served to highlight the stress on land and lifeline infrastructure in urban areas. While this has
differentially affected the poor, the urban centres have also provided economic growth and
opportunities to its citizenry. The urban sector in the sector contributes about 60% of the
secondary and tertiary State Domestic Product (SDP). The urban areas are also the centres of
institutional and cultural activities and provide health and educational facilities to the region.
The spatial planning and development of the urban areas are therefore very important to
ensure the growth of the activities in the urban areas and thereby providing the required boost
to the economy of the hinterland as well as to the State.
The future growth in urban West Bengal is anticipated (ASCI, 2011) to be from a mixture of
mineral-based mining and manufacturing activities and service sector growth in healthcare, IT
and Financial services. The currently dispersed hubs of economic activity are expected to
strengthen and exert influence on the existing core and neighbouring urban centres and also
27
Economic Review, 2007-‘08
connected urban corridors, thus influencing urban growth in the associated districts. An
interpretation of the anticipated urban growth influence from specific economic activities is
presented in Table 10.1 below.
TABLE 10.1 Economic activity, Urban Growth, Drivers and growth influwnce
districst/Area
ECONOMIC ACTIVITY CITIES DISTRICT INFLUENCE

AREA
Steel, Metals, Cement, Coal Bardhaman, Asansol, Bardhaman Birbhum and
based thermal power, Mining Durgapur Bardhaman
and other Heavy Industries
Petro-chemicals, Chemicals Haldia Purba Paschim and
Mednipur Purba Mednipur,
Heavy Machinery, Automobiles, Kharagpur, Mednipur Paschim Purulia, Bankura
IT Mednipur
Food Parks, Agro-processing, Uluberia and Howrah Howrah Kolkata, Howrah,
textiles and Leather, foundry Hoogly
industry
Jute mills and products, textiles, Hoogly Chinsura, Hooghly
light engineering, paints and Bhadreshwar, Rishra
chemicals.
Tourism, Tea estates, Food and Siliguri and Darjeeling Darjeeling Darjeeling,
Agro, transportation based Jalpaiguri, Cooch
Behar
IT, Health Infrastructure Rajarhat, Bidhannagar North 24 24 Parganas
Parganas North, 24
Parganas South
Finance and IT, Electronics, Kolkata Kolkata All surrounding
gems and jewellery, Export and Districts
Import trade.
Source: Adapted from ASCI (2011)
Urban Projections and Structure of Urban West Bengal

The Technical Group on Population Projections constituted by the National Commission on
Population (May, 2006) estimated that West Bengal would have a total population of 97 Million
by 2021 and would cross 100 Million by 2026. It has projected the urban population to grow up
to 29% (28 Million) by 2021 and reach 35 Million by 2026. The projected rural and urban
populations are presented in Figure (5) alongside. A more recent estimate cited in the West
Bengal Draft Urban Strategy document (ASCI, 2011) indicates an urban population of 34 Million
by 2021 and about 52 Million by 2031. This growth rate, would however, depend upon the
review of the state criteria of constituting municipalities (or statutory Urban Local Bodies) so
that a much larger proportion of Census Towns will be managed by ULBs. It is felt likely that by
2031 the number of Census Urban Centres may be doubled and a larger percentage of them may
be Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). Following the population projections enumerated in the draft
urban strategy, and in anticipation of a more liberal statutory town classification schema in the
state, it is anticipated that the structure of urban West Bengal would significantly change over
the next 20 years. It is anticipated that there would be 13 Million-plus cities in the state by 2031
of 90 Class-I towns projected. The projection and ensuing urban structure is presented in Figure
(4). While these projections are statistical models and rely mainly on vital demographic rates,
there are also regulatory and infrastructural limits on growth in our cities. Indian cities have
amongst the lowest Floor Area Ratios (FAR), ranging28 from 1-3. In contrast, FSI in most Asian
cities varies from 5 to 15 and in many Western cities goes up to even 25. However, such vertical
expansion would also require investments in the appropriate enabling services infrastructure.
Restrictive Floor Area Ratios (FAR) are termed as one of the significant impediments 29 to
unlocking the reported potential of urban housing market in India.
Figure 10.4: Projected Size Class of Urban Centres (2011-2031)
Figure 10.5: Projected Rural and Urban Population in West Bengal (2001-2026)
Source: Registrar General & Census Commissioner, 2006Figure 9.1: Projected Energy Demand,
Availability (2007-2031) and Sales
Life-line Infrastructure in Rural and Urban Environs
28
In Calcutta, the floor space index (FSI), or FAR, has been low, between 1 and 1.5 in most areas. Only in
certain locations has the index, calculated on the width of the access road to the plot being developed, gone
up to 2.5.
29
Among all the bigger economies, India has the lowest FAR, which restricts the amount of built-up area that
can be constructed on a land.
Water Supply30
The average annual rainfall in West Bengal is estimated as 1,762 mm. There is high variation
across the districts of the state. Seventy-six per cent of the annual rainfall occurs during the four
monsoon months and it is estimated that 21% water generated thus infiltrates through the soil,
while 49% goes back to the atmosphere through evapotranspiration. While rainfall generates
about 69.78 Billion Cubic Meters (BCM) of water resource, evapotranspiration exceeds rainfall
during lean months when deficit amounts to 18.76 BCM. Thus net annual water resource
generated from rainfall is 51.02 BCM and replenishable ground water resource is estimated at
34.20 BCM. The state receives 598.56 BCM of trans-boundary water from neighbouring states,
82% of this flowing through the monsoon months. There is high variation across districts in the
resource availability.
TABLE 10.2: SECTORAL DEMAND FOR WATER IN WEST BENGAL (IN BCM)
Sector Water Demand (in BCM)

2001 2011 2021 2031 2041 2051
Drinking Water 0.088 0.099 0.110 0.119 0.126 0.131
Rural 0.063 0.069 0.075 0.079 0.082 0.083
Urban 0.025 0.030 0.035 0.040 0.044 0.047
Domestic 1.981 2.271 2.567 2.830 3.044 3.215
Rural 0.837 0.924 0.998 1.053 1.089 1.112
Urban 1.144 1.347 1.569 1.777 1.955 2.103
Agriculture 76.411 84.607 92.802 100.997 109.192 117.388
Monsoon 42.339 42.339 42.339 42.339 42.339 42.339
Non-Monsoon 34.073 42.268 50.463 58.658 66.854 75.049
Industry 2.60 4.61 8.17 14.48 25.66 45.48
Forest/Ecology 20.704 61.510
Energy 3.60 8.30 18.90 43.20 98.60 225.10
All Sectors 106.18 452.82
Source: WBPCB (2009)
The consumptive demand for water in the major sectors is presented in Table 10.2 above. While
the demand in 2001 itself surpasses the net annual rainfall, the gap has been supplemented by
trans-boundary water and exploitation of groundwater. The demand is expected to grow
unabated in a Business-As-Usual scenario with significant increased demand from the Industry
and Energy sectors as also non-monsoon agriculture.
The NSSO survey on housing conditions and amenities (2008-2009) reveal that 90% of rural
households and 28% of urban households rely on groundwater sources for drinking. Nearly one
in every two households (46%) in urban West Bengal have to collect water from outside
premises, while about one in every five rural households have to travel more than 200 meters to
access drinking water. The SWID investigations report that groundwater in 81 blocks is
contaminated with arsenic and 49 blocks by excess fluoride.
30
Most of the information on water supply and demand have been taken from “Water Resource and its Quality in West
Bengal” a report by the WBPCB (2009).
The status of urban water supply is stark. There is a wide variation noticed in per capita
availability, ranging from as low as 10 litres per capita per day (lpcd) to as high as 225 lpcd. On
an average, 20.9 per cent households are connected through household connections. The service
level benchmarking exercise for urban centres, initiated by the state government indicates that
the average hours of supply of water across all ULBs is 6-7 hours. The quantum of water supply
in ULBs varies from 10 – 225 lpcd per day. Quality issues are reported in many places
(significant traces of iron and arsenic). Current plans for urban water supply infrastructure
estimate requirement of water supply to the tune of 5,587 MLD by 2031 with a gap of 4,474
MLD.
Sanitation and Wastewater

Household Sanitation: The decentralised governance system for rural West Bengal places
emphasis on Panchayat Raj Institutions. West Bengal has 3,354 Gram Panchayats situated in
341 Panchayat Samitis within 19 Zilla Panchayats. The resident population was about 58 Million
in 2001, comprising 11.2 Million households. Under the Total Sanitation Campaign, household
sanitation provisions have improved in rural parts of the state with nearly 64% of households
reporting access to household sanitation facilities. Of the 3,354 Gram Panchayats nearly a third
(1,041) are Open-Defecation Free by November 2010, while 37 Panchayat Samitis have also
achieved this status. There are significant differences in sanitation attainments across districts,
with Darjeeling, Purulia, Uttar Dinajpur and Malda showing slow progress. Also, the current
initiatives have depended on on-site sanitation treatment arrangements (most commonly the
leach-pit system) which could pose environmental issues to groundwater quality in settlements
of high density and dependence on groundwater sources for drinking water.
Figure 10.6: Current Status of Household Sanitation in West Bengal (2011)

Source: DDWS (2011)
The situation in urban areas is an improvement over the rural in terms of household access, but
probably worse when one examines the full-cycle of collection-treatment-disposal required for
safe sanitation and thus is short of any meaningful attainment for securing the health of the
population. In urban systems, there is a mixture of on-site and off-site fecal waste treatment
systems, with a few ULBs having set up Sewerage networks and Sewage treatment plants.
Ninety per cent of urban households report access to sanitation facilities (NSSO, 2010).
According to an Urban Household Survey31, 89% of urban households in the State have access to
toilets. Of these, 78% have individual household toilets and others have access to
shared/public/common facilities. Of the households having toilets, 22% have toilets connected
to sewer, 56% households discharge to the septic tank, 15% households use the two-pit pour
flush toilet, while two per cent households use Toilets without water closet and five per cent
defecate openly. The survey also noted the non-existence of proper drainage network in almost
all ULBs. Drainage pumping capacity was reportedly inadequate, with inadequate capacity of
most drainage outfalls. Severe water-logging in congested city areas and low-lying areas during
the monsoons was a reported regular feature.
Municipal wastewater generation in Class – I cities of the state is estimated32 to be about 2,345
MLD, while sewage treatment capacities are only for 506 MLD (22% of wastewater generation).
The lone metropolitan city, Kolkata generates about 706 MLD and has treatment capacities 33 of
172 MLD (24% of generation). Class – II towns generate about 180 MLD with treatment
capacities existing for 34% (62 MLD). Under JNNURM and UIDSSMT, sewerage network and
treatment plant capacities are to be enhanced in select urban centres. The City Sanitation Plans
being prepared under the National Urban Sanitation Policy guidelines are also expected to aim
for full-excreta-management in urban centres through a mix of awareness building, on-site and
off-site sanitation arrangements and through building ULB capacities for regulating and
managing sanitary waste, including solid waste. It is estimated that 75% of wastewater
discharged into the Hooghly river comes from urban areas with industries contributing the rest.
Management of wastewater assumes importance considering that one litre of waste water can
pollute 5-8 litres of fresh water.
Solid Waste Management: Solid waste management is carried out at present primarily as a
Municipal subject with the technical assistance and handholding support by Municipal
Engineering Directorate for 85 non KMA and by KMDA for 42 KMA local bodies. As per directive
from the Government of India, a specific fund has been earmarked out of 12th Financial
Commission grant for all the local bodies for carrying out solid waste management in the proper
and scientific manner with the objective of environment protection in accordance with current
rules. Of the 126 ULBs, 95 have applied for authorisation to set up SWM systems in compliance
of the MSW rules and 34 have been granted authorisation by the WBPCB. 81 ULBs have
reported some system for collection of solid waste within their boundaries (ASCI, 2011).
West Bengal is estimated to generate about 27 Million TPDof solid waste with a collection
efficiency of 70 per cent (CPCB, 2008). The service levels achieved by different ULBs vary
significantly as detailed in Table 10.3 below. Various ULBs are in different stages of putting
their SWM in action and performance has also been varied on ground. Segregation is reported in
only 6 ULBs. Ten per cent of the waste collected in urban areas is reported to be treated and
disposed in a scientific manner. Generally, Districts with good economic growth exhibit
comparatively better services – districts in KMA – Kolkata, Howrah, Hoogly, North 24 Parganas
and South 24 Parganas. Medium service levels are observed in medium-growth districts –
Bardhwan, Birbhum, Darjeeling, Nadia and Murshidabad.
31
Conducted in 2006 and 2007 by the State Urban Development Agency (SUDA)
32
CPCB (2009). Status of Water Supply, Wastewater Generation and Treatment in Class-I cities
& Class-II Towns of India.
33
The Eastern Kolkata wetland system should be treating an additional quantity of sewage, but the metro has
a net deficit.
Table 10.3: Service Levels Reported by ULBs in Solid Waste Management
Service Level Proportion of ULBs Reporting

Nil Less than 30% 31-50% 51-80% > 80%
Household Coverage 25% 32% 13% 17% 13%
Collection Efficiency 5% 9% 9% 17% 60%
Source: ASCI(2011)
Door to Door Collection System was introduced in 60% of the ULBs. It is currently operational
in about 40% of the ULBs. Vermi-composting system for treatment of organic waste has been
introduced in 8 ULBs. The sanitary landfill system has been introduced in 5 ULBs. A Plastic
waste recycling plant set up in Rajpur-Sonarpur and an industrial waste treatment system at
Haldia.
System of Common Treatment Facility has been set up in 5 Regions covering all the Urban local
Bodies in the State . These are run on PPP mode by Private operators, who are responsible for
collection of waste from the generation points directly at specified intervals. All the Hospitals,
Nursing Homes, Clinical Laboratories and Health Care Institutes are covered under this
program, are required to pay a specific user charge on the basis of their sanctioned bed strength
to the agency directly for collection and safe disposal of their waste. Regional facilities are set up
at ; Kona (Howrah), Haldia, Asansol, Kalyani and Siliguri.
Different types of Solid Waste Management Schemes are being taken up by KMDA within 40
ULBs. Under Sub-Mission-I of JNNURM, 2 projects – one at KMA covering 10 municipalities and
another at Asansol has been taken up. The Asansol project seeks to introduce an efficient Solid
Waste Management system in the Asansol-Durgapur Development Area consisting of Asansol
Municipal Corporation (AMC), Durgapur Municipal Corporation (DMC) and Municipalities of
Jamuria, Raniganj and Kulti. Another 6 municipal towns within KMA are being taken up under
JBIC-ODA assistance. A project under the Italian Assistance for management of solid waste of 16
municipal towns has also been approved. The Municipal Engineering Directorate has also
framed a few detailed project reports for the 22 municipalities outside KMA and Bidhan Nagar
Municipality within KMA. A Solid Waste Management Mission has been set up under the
Municipal Affairs Department. This mission has already been registered as a society and is
meant to coordinate the entire programme of solid waste management. The Mission would also
explore the possibility of organizing solid waste on a regional basis to ensure the economy of
scale, as small projects tend to be non-viable. It will also strive to deal with the present day
threats from the increasing complexity in the composition and characteristics of the waste and
problems imposed by the new generation waste like E-waste and Bio-medical waste.
The current situation of Solid Waste Management is constrained by various issues. ULB face
problems with non-availability of sites for disposal within their jurisdiction. Community
participation and involvement has been lacking in SWM arena, symptomized by the non-
segregation of waste at source and reports of households beset with the “Not-in-my-backyard”
syndrome. Inadequate institutional capacities (in ULBs) to plan SWM, engage with households
and to enforce rules, technology constraints (in operations) and market issues (for compost
manure) pose challenges.
Travel and Transport

A noteworthy feature of West Bengal is that most urban settlements are located along
established transport routes. Out of the total 127 ULBs and 252 Census Towns (CT) in the state,
51 ULBs and 101 CTs (40 per cent) are located within 5 km distance of National Highways.
Similarly 100 ULBs and 169 CTs (71 per cent) are located within close proximity of existing
railway networks. Additionally, the high population density in urban and rural areas should
ideally make the region amenable to mass-public transport systems which prima facie might
prove more economically viable in West Bengal compared to other states or regions. While too
high a density causes problems of congestion and pollution, it is an advantage in infrastructure
planning and setting up cost-effective transportation systems. More than one million people
commute to Kolkata for work daily, mainly by local trains. This phenomenon imposes a great
strain on the city’s water, waste management and transport services infrastructure. Para-
Transit, (also known as Intermediate Public Transit - IPT) mainly auto-rickshaws and also non-
motorized rickshaws, play the intermediary role between public transport operating on trunk
routes and interior localities. They provide service where it is required and at an affordable
cost. Para transit is also one of the main sources of employment for low income groups in small
and medium towns of West Bengal. A Government of India study computed the all-India average
Slow Moving Vehicle Index at 0.065, where Kolkata figured at 0.035. Patna was the city with the
slowest Moving Vehicle Index at 0.14.
A significant proportion of the freight traffic through the state is “transit” en-route to the north-
eastern states or over land to Bangladesh. This poses a strain on the state transport and service
infrastructure and also incurs a cost (in terms of time at border check-posts and clearances) for
the transporter. It is generally believed that significant numbers of “aged fleet” ply in eastern
Indian routes. Add to this the fact of Kolkata being a hub for movement by road, rail, sea and
inland water (See Figure 8), the movement of cargo in different modes itself would pose a strain
on existing infrastructure, unless one thinks otherwise and posits development as a transport
hub. A careful review of the cargo movement situation would be in order to understand the
costs to the state because of its geographical location, incremental costs of environmental
pollution and GHG emissions arising, to work out economic methods of regulating/improving
this facility with the view of maximising public welfare.
The state consumes (2010) about 5.5 Mt of petroleum products annually, of which Diesel (1.9
Mt) and Petrol (0.27 Mt) together account for 42% of the state consumption. The transport
segment would be the end-use for most of this consumption. Kerosene and LPG together
account for 26% of the annual consumption, with the predominant end-use likely to be
cooking/lighting in the residential and commercial segments. Aviation accounts for 4% of the
annual consumption, while Naphtha and Furnace Oil accounting for 18% of the annual
consumption are likely to be consumed in the industrial and electricity generation segments.
180
160
140
T 120
M
i 100
n
o
gr 80
a
C 60
40
20
0
2001 2011 2016 2021 2025
Year
Road Rail Water
Figure 10.7: Estimated Cargo Movement To and From Kolkata

Source: KMDA (2006)
The vehicle population (transport + non-transport) has witnessed a CAGR of 9% over the 1997-
2006 period. With nearly 3 million vehicles operating in the state by the end of March 2006,
two-wheelers account for 64% of the vehicle population and have witnessed a CAGR of 10%,
while auto-rickshaws accounting for less than 2% of the vehicle population have experienced a
CAGR of 11%. Four-wheeler passenger vehicles account for slightly less than 20% of the vehicle
population and have a CAGR of 7%. Buses account for only two per cent of the vehicles
registered, while good vehicles account for 8 per cent.
Thus, the energy needs of the transport sector in the state are met predominantly from fossil
fuels and account for xxxx34 Mt of CO2 emissions on an annual basis. Additionally, a significant
proportion of rural household energy use (cooking being the end-use and accounting for 87% of
household energy use in 2001) is met by fossil fuels.
34
This figure is to be taken from the GHG inventory data for the final version of the Action Plan.
Housing and Construction

The housing sector in West Bengal is characterised by low access to drinking water, sanitation
and electricity in rural areas and a significantly better situation in urban areas. It is also marked
by a substantial proportion of biomass-based housing in rural areas. The details of households
and access to amenities within premises are detailed in Table 10.4.
Rable 10.4: Housing and amenities in West Bengal
Amenity West Bengal – Rural West Bengal -

Urban
Households Living in Pucca Houses 36% 91%
Households living in Semi-pucca Houses 39% 8%
Households Living in Kucha Houses 25% 2%
Households Living in structures with no 83% 21%
drainage
Households with access to electricity 50% 93%
Households with access to electricity drinking 16% 51%
water and sanitation within premises
Source: NSSO (2010)
The West Bengal state government has enunciated a “Housing for All” policy. The target during
11th Plan Period is to construct 2 lakh dwelling units for the urban poor. Under the sub-
missions of the JNNURM, all the statutory towns of the State have been covered under BSUP and
IHSDP to provide housing for the urban poor urban. Additionally, the state government has
taken up a separate scheme - Housing of the Urban Poor - since FY 2010 with its own budgetary
support. Also, the Urban Development Authorities have constructed townships in all major
urban centres. Within these, there is a mandatory reservation of economically weaker sections
of the population. Of the 4.6 million urban households, 1.1 million belong to the poor (BPL).
Nearly 50% of the poor households own their own house. An additional 2.4 households are
earmarked for housing under central and state programs by 2012, leaving about 29% poor
households without own houses.
Commercial Building construction is anticipated to grow at between 9-11 per cent y-o-y in the
state. A substantial portion of this (at least half) is anticipated to be in the state sector
constructed through the PWD, Housing Boards and Urban Development Authorities.
Table 10.5: Energy consumption within key segments of Habitats
Consumer Category Energy Consumption in Million kiloWattHours

1991 2001 2006 2007 2008 Share of all
Electricity
Commercial 1,096.12 1,910.51 2,528.65 2,786.32 3,043.94 12%
Public Lighting 70.89 146.02 232.46 241.34 254.66 1%
Public Water & 242.13 365.09 448.04 467.92 477.90 2%
Sewerage Pumping
Traction (Railways) 550.46 771.40 939.45 981.81 1,042.71 4%
All Categories in State 8,821.47 15,472.74 21,401.17 23,462.08 26,230.90
Source: WB Statistical Handbook, 2008
While 12% of electricity consumption in the state (See Table 10.5) is accounted by the
commercial category (most of it urban), Public Street Lighting accounts for one per cent, Water
Supply and Sewerage Pumping (mostly Urban again) accounts for two per cent and the rail
transport about four per cent. A sample survey of five government buildings by BEE in Kolkata
had a covered area of 1.2 Million sft., with a connected load of 8,880 KVA and annual energy
consumption of 16.6 MU (0.05% of commercial energy consumption in the state). It is reported
that use of energy efficient devices could cut consumption by 15-20 per cent annually, and
proper design (using environmental character) could bring down energy consumed by an equal
volume additionally
Hazards and Vulnerablility

Cyclones and Heavy precipitation events: The East coast is packed right from the Coramandel
coast up to the Mahanadi delta with disasters ascribed to Cyclones. The Sunderbans portion of
North and South 24 Parganas districts has witnessed the highest frequency of events (see Figure
(8)) followed by undivided Mednipur, Malda and then Kolkata and Nadia. Heavy rain disaster
events reported, indicate an increasing frequency in the coastal districts, the southern and
eastern districts, the chicken’s neck area and the hilly region. The casualty from these events
could be enhanced owing to landslides, in the hills and the large sea-dependent communities on
the coast, and also the low-lying urban areas dominated by the poorer communities. The
landslide hazard in West Bengal has been observed mostly in the hilly terrains of Darjeeling
District. Urbanization, especially in the hilly terrains, involving construction activities often
causes perturbations in the hill slopes triggering landslides (State Disaster Management Plan,
2009).
Figure 10.9: Occurrence of Cyclone (Left) and Heavy Rain Events (Right) – 1977 to 2002
Source: Kapur (2010)
Floods: West Bengal has about 56% of the region susceptible to floods. The vulnerability is
made more complex by the origination of major flood-producing rivers beyond the state
jurisdictional limits, viz, Teesta, Torsa, Joldhaka, Kaljani, etc. from Sikkim and Bhutan, which are
mainly responsible for disastrous flash flood in North Bengal; also heavy rainfall in the
catchment area of the river Ganga in Uttar Pradesh results in heavy onrush of water in the
downstream of the Bhagirathi causing floods in its adjacent districts. The heavy rainfall in
Western plateau [Ranchi] results in large inflow into the reservoirs of Maithon, Panchet,
Messanjore etc. causes the necessary release of large volume of water from reservoirs. The
heavy discharge from the DVC system and Mayurakshi system within a short span of time with
onrush of water through the rivers causes inundation and water logging in vast areas. In
addition, many of the rivers flowing through the State originate from northern Bangladesh
causes flood in time of heavy rainfall. The IPCC identified Ganges-Brahmaputra as one of 4
particularly vulnerable deltas. The reported frequency of floods (see Figure (9)) seem to follow
the river-courses in the state, thus impacting most of the regions – east, south, central, chicken’s
neck and the foot-hills. Flash flood occurrences have been reported highest in Mednipur
followed by the districts along the coast, eastern boundary and the chicken’s neck.
Heat Waves: Heat Waves are generally a series of winds laden with heat. These are typical of
summer months of April and May and are characterised by hot sun over the long day with winds
after the morning hours and occasional dust storm in the afternoon. These events account for 4
per cent of deaths from disasters in Inda and have been reported within West Bengal, with more
frequency in the eastern districts, Mednipur, Purulia and the Chicken’s neck area.
Other Hazards: Subsidence hazard has been exhibited in underground coal mining areas of the
state, such as Raniganj and Asansol.
Figure 10.10: Occurrence of Heat Wave - 1977 to 2002

Source: Kapur (2010)
Governance and the Public Policy Framework

West Bengal has a history of progressive reforms in the area of governance signalling
decentralisation initiatives even before the passing of the 73rd and 74th CA. The Panchayat Raj
Institutions in rural areas and Urban Local Bodies in the urban, are designed to be the hub of
participative and representative decision-making with the support and assistance of “line”
departments staffed by professionals and experienced staffers. While the progress on
decentralisation is an on-going process, the pace is probably faster in the rural domain,
compared to the urban. Strategic planning and governance of climate change adaptation and
mitigation initiatives for creating sustainable habitats would need to be situated in this
decentralised governance framework with appropriate systems for technology assistance,
capacity-building, data collection, monitoring and continuous evaluation, through an
appropriate mix of regulatory authorities (like the Unified Transport Authority), professional
agencies (like the Solid Waste Management Mission) coordinating and suitably enhancing the
capacities of departmental staff serving the decentralised governance institutions, which need
enabling towards becoming objective decision-makers with the longer-term interest of
constituents in mind.
Likely Impacts of Climate Change

The many components of the Habitat system contribute towards GHG emissions and thus
climate change. While mitigation options for identified GHG emission phenomena are identified
in the specific sectoral strategies of this action plan, some cross-cutting mitigation initiatives
will need to be managed within the habitat mission, owing to the nature of governance systems.
Table 10.6 below summarises the various emissive phenomena within habitat and the direct
and in-direct mitigation options.
Table 10.6: Sub sectors contributing to GHG emissios and mitigative potentials
Sub-sector Potential GHG Emission Remark
Transport High (second highest Anticipated to be significant with the
emitter after electricity state serving as gateway to the N.E
production, nationally) States
Construction and Moderate; Growing sector Building management could lower
Buildings with significant embedded energy consumption and hence
energy consumption electricity production need
Local Self Government Moderate – emissions in Public services like lighting, water
Management wastewater and solid supply pumping, sewerage pumping
waste; Energy consume energy and currently not too
consumption in lighting efficiently
and pumping
Source: IPCC, 2007
The envisaged climate change could impact different segments of the habitat as outlined in
Table 10.7 below. The list is indicative (and needs further development) and is more to identify
risk-mitigation measures in habitat systems that would need to be planned along with other
adaptation mechanisms enunciated in the strategy later in this section.
Given the inter-linked nature of many constituents of the habitat system, it is important to
continually monitor and seek to understand the potential vulnerabilities of different sub-sectors
due to climatic consequences. The formal knowledge base is at a stage where we can identify
starting blocks, but needs more data points and analysis along with real-time studies to confirm
or disprove hypotheses and move our understanding forward.
Thus, the current habitat scenario outlined can be summarised as follows:
 Population is estimated to increase by nearly 20% by 2021 and 25% times by 2031.
Urban concentrations will significantly increase accounting for 40% or more of the state
population by 2031.
 The transport sector within the state will continue to be a significant contributor to GHG
emissions, if one examines the transport need for a growing population. However,
opportunities exist to mitigate this moderately through:
o Shift in modal use from private transport to public transport
o Bringing down fossil fuel use through efficiency improvements in transmission;
o Bringing down net fossil fuel use by replacing significant share of current stock
of para-transit (and non-motorized) vehicle modes with electric/solar powered
vehicles for current;
o Shift in city design and plan paradigm to provide public spaces, access to public
spaces and comprehensive mobility (to reduced passenger kilometres) for
different sections of population.
 The urban sector will be a major driver of economic growth and will need to be buffered
from attendant risks emanating from climate change – hydrologic variability, extreme
events and impacts from change in ambient conditions.
 The development priorities of state would require ensuring access to basic services –
drinking water, sanitation, public health, sustenance food and work. Provision of
adequate and safe drinking water would necessitate increased use of water resources,
but would aid climate change mitigation initiatives by ensuring decreased flows of
untreated wastewater into freshwater stocks, safe confinement and subsequent
treatment and disposal of human excreta, safe and efficient collection of segregated
solid waste, its treatment/disposal and energy recovery form solid and liquid waste to
increase methane capture and substitute fossil fuel use.
Table 10.7: Climate change an dpossible impacts on Habitats
Climate Change Indicators Impacts on the Habitat
Hydrological Variability (greater Variability in water availability esp. non-rainfall

seasonal and year-to-year variability in period for drinking and productive uses
precipitation, more frequent and Increased vulnerability of population to heavy rains,
prolonged extreme events like drought floods, flash floods, Cyclone/Gale, drought, etc.
or heavy rainfall) Increased risk of damage to lifeline infrastructure
from extreme events
Climate Change Indicators Impacts on the Habitat
More frequent instances of flooding and economic

losses, esp. large urban centres
Increased stress on lifeline infrastructure in urban
settlements
Increased Temperature Increased vulnerability of population to Heat waves
Exacerbation of urban heat island effects
Increased need of energy in household sector for
cooling
Sea Level Rise Increased vulnerability of coastal communities to
floods, erosion and inundation
Increased vulnerability to livelihoods of coastal zone
resident, including macro-sectors like tourism
Increased vulnerability of drinking water
sources/supplies due to saline water intrusion
The key elements of a multi-pronged strategy for mitigation and adaptation are outlined below:
1, Plan for reduced CO2 emissions compared to BAU scenario
- Transport Sector through comprehensive planning, fuel economy standards,

introduction of solar and electric rickshaws and auto-rickshaws;
- Methane capture in Wastewater and Solid Waste streams
- Reduction in electricity intensity to reduce emissions indirectly - Municipal
Management (Water Pumping and Public Lighting being electricity-use segments);
- Reduction in electricity intensity to reduce emissions indirectly – Commercial
energy consumptions (Public and large Private Buildings being electricity-hungry)
2.Increase system and citizen capabilities to adapt to temperature and rainfall changes
anticipated Increased Warming, Changing Rainfall Intensity and temporal pattern and Extreme
Events
3.Risk mitigation of anticipated impacts from Climate change through
- Improved risk assessment of lifeline infrastructure for likely scenarios of climate

change
- Investment and implementation of infrastructure-strengthening initiatives and

Warning systems to cope with extreme events
See Table 10 and 11 in Annexure 1 for strategies, actions, timelines and costs for the habitat
sector.
11. Institute for Climate Change

Introduction
National Action Plan on Climate Change 2008 envisages setting up of an Institute in the State
level – aiming towards formulation of strategic knowledge (encompassing climate change
issues, energy security and food security) for sustainable development with economic growth of
the state vis-à-vis country in eco-friendly manner.
Therefore it is imperative to understand the performance criteria what is really happening to

environmental resources like air, water and forests in response to “geo-bio-cultural”
interactions. Primarily, the institute will play a catalytic role in tracking research being
conducted by different departments/ institutions/organization in the state and also
undertaking its own.
Core-Business
Enrolment of partners and partnering institutions/organizations for building effective co-

ordination; the Institute will act as a “Knowledge Domain” for “Transitional Research” i.e. to
foster exchange of data related to climate change, good practices and policy initiatives across
states of the country / adjacent countries with similar physiographic provinces e.g. Bangladesh,
Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Myanmar.
A list of Partner Institutions / Organisations for each component groups has been prepared
based on the discussion among sectoral committee members and GIZ representative and
convener of the sectoral committee is indicated in Table 11.1.
Table 11.1: Partner Institutions

Sl. Component
Govt. Deptt./Organisation/Academic Institution
No. Discipline
1. Atmospheric Science Indian Meteorological Deptt., GoI
Atmospheric Sc. Deptt., Calcutta University
ISRO, Deptt. of Space, GoI
CORAL, IIT, Kharagpur
2. Land Use/ Land Cover & National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), Dept. of Space, GoI
Soil Sciences Deptt. of Science & Technology, Govt. of West Bengal
Institute of Environmental Studies & Wetland Management
Central Soil Research Inst.
Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya
Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya
Viswabharati Pally Sikha Sadan
3. Forest & Biodiversity Forest Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal
Biodiversity Board, Govt. of West Bengal
Deptt. of Marine Science, Calcutta University
Botanical Survey of India
Zoological Survey of India
Sl. Component
Govt. Deptt./Organisation/Academic Institution
No. Discipline
North Bengal University (Himalayan Study Unit)

4. Water Resources Irrigation & Waterways Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal
Deptt. of Science & Technology, Govt. of West Bengal
Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute
Kolkata Port Trust
Central Institute of Brackish Water Aquaculture
Centre for Ground Water Studies
State Water Investigation Directorate, Govt. of West Bengal
Central Ground Water Board (Eastern Region)
School of Water Resources, Jadavpur University
Civil Engineering Deptt., IIT, Kharagpur,
Fisheries Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal,
Marine Science Deptt., Calcutta University
5. Climate Change & Public Health Engineering Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal
Health School of Oceanographic Studies, Jadavpur University
National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Disease
Tropical Medicine
Indian Institute of Chemical Biology
CENTRO MAP
Seth Sukhlal Karnani Memorial (Research Divn.)
National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research
6. Livelihood & Adaptation Global Change Programme, Jadavpur University
Sunderban Biosphere Reserve Wing of Forest Deptt., Govt. of
West Bengal
Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya
World Wildlife Fund
Deptt. of International Studies, Jadavpur University
Agriculture Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal
7. Energy Efficiency Confederation of Indian Industries (State Unit)
West Bengal State Electricity-Distribution Company Ltd.
Power Deptt., Govt. of West Bengal
Centre for Energy and Environmental Management
Pollution Control Board
8. Disaster Management Disaster Management, Support Div.. National Remote Sensing
Centre, Dept. of Space, GoI
Deptt. of Science & Technology, Govt. of West Bengal
National Disaster Management Authority
National Institute of Disaster ManagementNational Institute of
Disaster Management
Management of the Institute

1. The proposed institute should preferably be established under the aegis of Deptt. of
Environment, Govt. of West Bengal as an autonomous body – could be managed through
West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB). Government should provide adequate
grants to the institute for its effective functioning. The name of the proposed institute may
be “Institute for Climate Change Research & Ecological Design or Management”.
In this context, the “Institute of Environmental Studies & Wetland Management” (IESWM), a
registered society under administrative control of Deptt. of Environment, GoWB may be
considered to host the climate change institute initially. Subsequently, with necessary
upgradation and expansion of the IESWM establishment, they may be re-designated as
“Institute for Climate Change Research & Ecological Design or Management”. This is being
proposed considering the work module, available infrastructural set up and manpower
strength (both scientific grade and administrative support staff) of the IESWM – pragmatic
approach with S & T input to maintain space-time availability of the programme.
2. The institute will be advised and steered by a Science Advisory Council (Think Tank) – to be
set up by the WBPCB/Environment Deptt., GoWB in due course.
Advisory Council / Think Tank of the Institute would comprise of not more than 15 expert
members:
a) Chairman – Secretary, Deptt. of Environment, Govt. of West Bengal
b) Expert members will be from Academic / R & D Institutions with National /
International repute in component disciplines.
c) Tenure of members of the Advisory Council will be 3 (three) years excluding the
Departmental Officials.
d) Advisory Council meeting may be convened on quarterly basis. However, a general
review meeting may be organized on annual / biannual basis.
Chief Environmental Officer, Deptt. of Environment, Govt. of West Bengal may act as
Member Convener till establishment of the Institute.
Prime Activities
Goal
The proposed institution is to build research strengths, rethink current development models
and to maintain a strong and effective co-ordination among the existing knowledge institutions
in national and international level to address the climate change issues and challenges of the
civil society. Under the various themes indicated in Table 11.1, the main objectives are as
follows:
Objectives
o To develop techniques to translate climate change information (both climatological and
model prediction) for useful applications by different stake holders e.g. research groups
engaged in impact and vulnerability assessment or even end-users like farmers,
fishermen etc.
o Training and capacity Building – Emphasis on skill development, at all levels, across
various sector to enable communities become sufficiently empowered with know how
and specific required skills, necessary for adaptation to CC.
A. Atmospheric Sciences:
o Study on Atmospheric composition, climate and variability – Monitoring, source
identification of various Green House Gases (GHG). Aerosols, space-time variability, bio-
geochemical aspects etc.
o To develop capacity to undertake climate change modeling
o To identify and explore new areas of research related to the fundamental understanding of
earth’s climate system and to undertake collaborative research with national/international
level institute.
B. Landuse, Land Cover & soil Sciences
o Identification of Disturbance Gradient Zone in the bio-physical environment –

Monitoring and assessment of landuse and land cover (LULC) changes, especially in the
sensitive environment e.g. the Himalayan region, coastal zone etc.
o Geo-history modeling of natural hazards/disasters – dynamic viewing capabilities

encompassing past-present-future Climate–Society interactions for identifying ‘geo-
environmental indicators’ towards framing ‘strategic guidelines’ in societal perspective.
o Mapping Soil nutrient and characteristics across the state and understanding its
interactions and role in the entire system
o Study on plant pathology and pest management in the context of “Pests, Diseases and
Weeds” because of their importance as yield-reducing factors in agriculture and plant
diseases functioning of ecosystems and the profitability of crop production
C. Biodiversity and Forests
o Prioritization of Bioprospecting Zones – Enhancing ecological sustainability to

maintain/ conserve uniqueness of biodiversity – study of micro flora (including
medicinal plant variety) and fauna, wild life and animal population in ecologically
sensitive areas like the Himalayan region, mangrove swamp zone in coastal belt or land
degradation areas.
o Studying the role of forests in ecosystems and supporting livelihoods, C sequestration

potential of forests, and other forest related studies, and understanding the impacts of
climate change on forests and associated vulnerabilities
o Generate scientific documents for informed decision making
o Undertake training programmes in various aspects of biodiversity and forests vis a vis
climate change
D. Water Resources
o To study the impacts of Climate and climate change on –Hydrodynamic Circulation –

‘agro-water-ecosystem’ potential and vulnerability in response to any change in
hydrological cycle, glacial retreat etc. – hydrological modeling of regional basins/
watersheds to ‘locale specific’ recharge issues on micro-watershed level.
o Undertake studies to understand the consequent socio economic impacts and hence
tdevise strategies to adapt
o Generate scientific documents for informed decision making
o Undertake training programmes in various aspects of biodiversity and forests vis a vis
climate change
E. Climate Change and Health
o To understand the interactions of climate with the human health in the West Bengal
context, and the vulnerability of the population such as and not limited to
- Heat stress related diseases
- virus and vector epidemiology
- Water borne diseases
- Infectious diseases
F. Energy Efficiency
This sector intends to cover the following but not limited to

o Study the various energy efficiency options that can be implemented in the state of West
Bengal, including the use of new and renewable energy,
o Provide Technology development and support,
o Undertake studies to identify base lines emissions and make emission projections
o Contribute to developing projects towards gaining C credits through various

mechanisms both national as well as international such as PAT and CDM respectively
o Devise demand management programmes for more resilient and adaptable society.
G. Disaster management
o Understand the climate change implications on Hazard and vice a versa
o To develop adaptation plans for disaster risk reduction and mitigation
o Towards integrating climate change and disaster risk reduction and mitigation
strategies in planning
Manpower Requirement
The institute will be headed by a renowned scientist to be designated as Principal Chief

Scientist/Head/Director and the rest of the Scientists will be working in four (4) divisions as
mentioned above (Figure 11.1).
In addition to the scientists, there will be support personnel to manage general administration,
accounts and IT services to all the divisions. At present it is presumed that a total number of 40
Scientific personnel and 30 number of Administrative staff are basic requirement for the
institute. The details are furnished in Table – 11.2 and 11.3. Provision for Technician grade
manpower to be identified by the Divisional Heads as per requirement in due course.
Figure 11,1: Organizational Structure & Manpower strength of the proposed Institute
Principal Chief Scientist/Head/Director
Chief Scientist/ Addl. Chief Scientist/ Addl.

Administrative
Director Director
Wing
Principal Principal Principal Principal Scientist

Scientist Scientist Scientist
Div. – 4
Div. – 1 Div. – 2 Div. – 3
(A+B) (E+F) (G + Knowledge
(C+D) Management)
Sr. Scientist Senior
Sr. Sr. Scientist Sr. Scientist
Administrative
Scientist (E+F)
3 Nos. 3 (2+1*) 4 (2+2+) Officer
3 Nos. Nos. Nos.
Jr. Scientist
Jr. Scientist Jr. Scientist Jr. Scientist
Administrative
5 (3+2+) Officer & Staff
6 Nos. 5 (3+2*) 5 Nos.
Nos. Members
Nos.
(Table – II)
Total Scientific Grade Manpower – 40 Nos.

N.B.
* IT personnel – to provide services to all the divisions.
+ Post(s) to be filled up with Social Science background/basic discipline.
Table 10.2: Suggested Pay Scale of the Scientific Personnel

1. Principal Chief Scientist/ - Rs.37,000 – 60,000/-;
PB 5 :
Head/ Director G.P. Rs.10,000
2. Chief Scientist/ Addl. - Rs.37,000 – 60,000/-;
PB 5 :
Director G.P. Rs.8,900
3. Principal Scientist/ - Rs.37,000 – 60,000/-;
PB 5 :
Divisional Heal G.P. Rs.8,700
4. Sr. Scientist - Rs.9,000 – 40,500/-;
PB 4 :
G.P. Rs.7,600
5. Jr. Scientist - Rs.9,000 – 40,500/-;
PB 4 :
G.P. Rs.5,400
Table 10.3: Suggested Pay Scale of the Administrative Personnel

Sl. No. of
Category Pay Band Pay Scale
No. Posts
1. Sr. Administrative Officer - Rs.9,000 – 40,500/-;
PB 4 : 1
G.P. Rs.7,600
2. Administrative Officer & - Rs.9,000 – 40,500/-;
DDO PB 4 : G.P. Rs.5,400 1
3. Accountant; -
3
Section Officer; Cashier
(1+1+1)
(one each)
4. P.A. -
(to be attached with the
Higher Officials upto the As per existing Pay Scale of the Govt. of 7
rank of Div. Head) West Bengal.
5. UD and LD Assistant - 3
(1+2)
6. Attendant/ Messenger -
(Group-D) 15
Total : 30
Total Cost of setting up the institution

Manpower: Rs 25 Lakh/year
Infrastructure cost: Rs. 1.00 Cr 1st year, and Rs. 30 Lakh from next year onwards (to be housed
within WBPCB, only cost of hardware and software included)
Cost 12th Plan: Rs. 2.45 Cr
Cost 13th Plan: Rs. 2.00 Cr
Focus on Special Regions

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Chapter 12: Darjeeling Himalayas

Darjeeling Profile
Physiography: Darjeeling is the northernmost district in West Bengal. It is located in the eastern
Himalayas at an altitude of 6710 feet, extending from 27o13’ N to 26o27’N latitude, and 88o53’E to
87o59’E longitude covering an area of 3149 km2. The district is bounded by state of Sikkim in the
north, Nepal in the west and Bhutan on the northeast. Geographically the district can be divided into
two broad divisions, the hills which are a part of the eastern lower Himalayas and a stretch of the
territory lying along the base of the hills known as Terai. The hilly areas rise as high as 3657 m above
sea level and the Tarai region is only 91 m above the sea level.
The soil is chiefly composed of sandstone and conglomerate formations, which are the solidified and
upheaved detritus of the Himalayan range. However, the soil is often poorly consolidated and the
permeable sediments of the region do not retain water between rains, therefore not considered
suitable for agriculture. The area has steep slopes and loose topsoil, leading to frequent landslides
during the monsoons. According to the Bureau of Indian Standards, the town falls under seismic zone-
IV35, near the convergent boundary of the Indian and the Eurasian tectonic plates and is subject to
frequent earthquakes.
In the hilly terrain the soils are predominantly acidic in nature and is shallow to moderately shallow
but also deep at places, well drained, coarse-loamy to gravelly loamy in texture. These soils occur on
steep side slopes. They are classified as Typic Haplumbrepts and Typic dorthents. In the foothills of
Himalayas and in piedmont plains the soils are deep to very deep, imperfectly drained and coarse-
loamy to fine loamy in texture and are placed in Aquic Ustifluvents and Fluventic Eutrochrepts.
The entire hilly region of the district comes under Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council, an
autonomous administrative body under the state Government of West Bengal. The council
covers the three hill subdivisions of Darjeeling, Karseong and Kalimpong and 13 mouza’s of
Siliguri. The foot-hills of Darjeeling Himalayas, come under the Siliguri subdivision. See Figure
12.1.
Climate: Due to high variation in altitudinal differences in aspects the climate within the hill
areas vary greatly. In general the hill areas enjoy pleasant summer, heavy rain in rainy season
due to strong monsoonal winds and cold winter with snowfall in higher altitudinal areas. The
annual mean maximum temperature of the hilly region is around 14.9 oC and minimum
temperature is 8.9oC, with lowest minimum temperature goes below zero. In the Tarai region
the temperatures are higher and range between 3 to 15 oC in winters and do not exceed 35oC in
summers. The average annual rain fall in the Hilly areas of the district is around 2092 days with
number of rainy days spanning over 126 days and varies between 2500-3500 mm. In the
Siliguri district or the Tarai region average rainfall is 3620 mm which spread over 113 days
annually and varies between 2000-2500mm36. See also Table 12.1
35
on a scale of I to V, in order of increasing proneness to earthquakes
36
http://www.banglarkrishi.gov.in/final/climate.aspx for Darjeeling district and its subdivisions,
accessed on 9th March, 2012
Figure 12.1:Darjeeling District and drainage map37.
Table 12.1: Monthly mean maximum, minimum temperatures and rain fall for the period 1901-
2000 for the district of Darjeeling38
Max temp (oC) Min temp (oC) Mean Rain fall (mm)
January 9.4 1.8 19.7
February 10.4 2.9 24.1
March 14.4 6.3 47.7
April 17.4 9.4 115.8
May 18.5 11.5 197.2
June 19.3 13.6 570.0
July 19.4 14.3 781.7
August 19.6 14.2 635.3
September 19.2 13.3 437.3
October 18.0 10.3 122.5
November 14.7 6.3 23.5
December 11.5 3.3 7.0
Water resources: The rivers flowing through Darjeeling district are Teesta, the Rangeet,
Mahanada, Balason, Jaldhaka, Rammam, Mechi, Lish, Gish, Chel and Murti. Each of the rivers as
they flow across the district are also fed by an innumerable perennial and seasonal streams or
Jhoras originating from numerous springs across the hills as also decipherable from Figure 10.1.
37
Source: http://darjeeling.gov.in/GIS/DARJEELING.pdf
38 Source: http://www.imd.gov.in/doc/climateimp.pdf; accessed on 8th march 2012.
The average rain fall over the district is of the order of 2781.8 mm and the surface water
availability in the district is 527.8 BCM. The trans boundary water availability is of the order of
16.25 BCM (refer also to chapter 5 of this report). The net ground water availability in the
district is 0.52 BCM39.
The dynamic ground water resources in the non-hilly blocks of the district covering Siliguri as
estimated by CGWB and SWID of Gov of Wes Bengal is shown in Table 12.240. The groundwater
development in the three North Bengal districts, viz., Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri and Coochbehar are
quite low being only 5%, 4% and 17% respectively which are much below the State average.
These three districts are, however, bestowed with about 18% of the State’s available
groundwater resources41.
Table 12.2: Ground water characteristics in the Terai region (Siliguri)

Net Ground water availability 46957 ha m
Existing gross ground water used ofr irrigation 1700 ha
Existing ground water draft for domestic and industrial water supply 807 ha m
Allocation of domestic and industrial req. supply for next 25 yrs 1719 ha m
Stage of ground water development 5.34%
Land Use: As of 2003-2004, out of the total reporting area of 325469 ha, forest area was
124574 ha. Area under non agriculture use was 33785 ha, barren and unculturable land was
4925 ha, permanent pasture and other grazing land was 909 ha, land under miscellaneous tree
groves not included in net sown area was 1942 ha, culturable waste land was 1376 ha, fallow
land including current fallow was 14953 ha and net sown area was 143003 ha. The land use
distribution is shown in Figure 12.2.
Figure 12.2: Land use of Darjeeling District42
39
Water Resources and its Quality in West Bengal, Status of Environment Report, West Bengal Pollution
Control Board, 2009 (WBPCB, 2009).
40
Ground water information booklet, Darjeeling district, West Bengal
41
State Agriculture Plan for West Bengal, accessed from http://rkvy.nic.in/SAP/WB/WB.PDF on 9th March
2012
42
District Statistical Handbook- Darjeeling, 2004. Bureau of Applied Economics and Statistics, Govt. of West
Bengal
Demography: According to the 2011 census Darjeeling district has a population of 1,842,034.
The district has a population density of 585 inhabitants per km 2. Its population growth rate
over the decade 2001-2011 was 14.47 %. The sex ratio is 971 females for every 1000 males,
and a literacy rate is 79.92 %. In 2001, the total population of the district was 1,609,172. The
total rural population was 1,088,740 and total urban population was 520,432. Total males were
830,644 and total females were 778,528. The density of population was 511 per km 2. The
decennial population growth rate (1991–2001) was 23.79% and between 2001 and 2011 it has
decreased to 14.47%. The average literacy rate increased from 71.79% to 79.92% between
2001 and 2011. Also see Table 12.3.
Table 12.3: Population features of Darjeeling in 2001 and 2011

Description 2011 2001
Actual Population 1,842,034 1,609,172
Population Growth 14.47% 23.79%
Density/km2 585 511
Sex Ratio (Per 1000) 971 937
Average Literacy (%) 79.92 71.79
Agriculture: In the hilly regions of Darjeeling, farming on terraced slopes is a major source of
livelihood for rural inhabitants, mainly concentrating on growing fruits, vegetables, maize,
medicinal plants, cardamom amongst others. In the terai region, bulk of the rice is produced
from this district. The main food crops grown in the entire Darjeeling districts include Rice,
Wheat, Barley, Maize, Millet, Buck wheat, Winter potato, Summer potato, Summer vegetables,
winter vegetables, Bhodai vegetables, Cardamom, Mustard, Ginger, Turmeric, Kalai, Soyabean 43.
The trends of growth of area cropped, crop production and yield of some of the key crops is
shown in Figure 12.3.
Biodiversity: The geographical continuity of Darjeeling Hills with Nepal, Bhutan and Sikkim and
the unique climatic conditions has resulted into a mosaic of floral and faunal elements which is
rich, both in forms of luxuriance and species diversity (See Box 12.1). A study carried out by
Alfred et al.44 to assess the present status of biological diversity in the State of West Bengal
reflects a greater concentration of various species in areas of lower human population density
and agricultural land-use. It seems from the data that species richness is highest in two major
zones of North and South Bengal. Both these zones have a moderate density of human
population and land-use for agricultural purpose. The vegetation type across the state clearly
shows the highest diversity level and species richness in Darjeeling district, where human
population density is also low (see Figure 12.4a). The study identifies about 4166 species in
Darjeeling, of which 3166 species are Anthropods45. The Floral assemblage is also the highest in
Darjeeling district (2439) amongst all districts in West Bengal with respect to species number
as well as in terms of diversity. Also the floral and faunal richness in the region has a maximum
density and shows direct correlation with low population of the region (Figure 12.4b).
43 th
http://darjeeling.gov.in/agriculture.html; accessed on 9 March 2012
44
JRB Alfred, AK Sanyal, A Roy, S Tiwari, S Mitra and B Bhatta; Biodiversity in West Bengal- A demographic
Approach; Zoological Survey of India; accessed from www.zsienvis.nic.in/Docum/WBBiodiversity.com
Figure 12.3: Trends of area, production and yields of main crops in Darjeeling46,47. TOS is total oil seeds
A paper published by Das et al. in 200448, based on 22 year of observations in Darjeeling

Himalayan region, concludes that the flora of the region comprise 2137 species belonging to
898 genera and 193 families, of which ca 1900 species in 772 genera and 159 families belong to
Dicots and the rest to the Monocots. While in 479 species (404 Dicots, 75 Monocots) are
endemics, 114 species are exotics which have become permanent denizens in the flora of
Darjeeling Hills. The flora is also rich in medicinal and other economically important species,
including NTFPs. While a number of species could not be relocated in the region, ca 222 species
have been considered endangered, of which 104 species occur within the protected areas, thus
covered under in situ conservation.
46
Final Estimates of PULSES and FOODGRAINS in West Bengal during 2009-10; Accessed from
http://wbagrimarketingboard.gov.in/Crops/foodgrains.html on 9th March 2012
47 District Statistical Handbook, Darjeeling 2004.
48
Das, A.P. 2004. "Floristic studies in Darjeeling Hills". Bull. Bot. Surv. India 46(1-4):1-18
Box 11.1: Biodiversity of Darjeeling Himalayas
Trees: In the Terai area -Sal with Champ, Chilauni, Chikrassi, Gamar, Lali, Lasune, Panisaj, Paccasaj
interspersed with riverian forests of Khair, Sissoo, Simul, Toon etc. representing succession from riverian
to climax sal. Between 1650-3000m- Kawla, Lkhar, Pipli, Oaks (buk & phalat), Rani champ, Abies densa,
Tsuga brunoniana, Acer spp are common. Between 3000-3700 m in the subalpine region Putli, Lekh
Kapasi, Lekh Pipli, Kapasi, Arupate, Sindure Katus(Castanopsis sp.), Yew (Taxus bacata), Tsuga brunoniana,
Abies densa, Junipers, Birch (Betula utilis), Rhododendrons, Salix, Berberis, Maling bamboo are found.
Flowers and other plants: More than 4000 varieties of flowering plants. About three hundred varieties
of ferns, including tree fern and countless types of flowerless plants, mosses, algae, fungi, birches, and
of course, the prize orchids, wild and cultivated.
Fauna: Monkeys, wild cats, tigers, leopards, civets, jackals and foxes, wild dogs, bears, otters, martons,
weasels, squirrels(including the Himalayan flying and Assam giant varieties), porcupines, hares, barking
deer, sambhurs, chitals, the very rare pangolin and now the Red Panda is also found in the
Darjeelingforests. In the foothills and the teria forests, in the sanctuaries (Jaldhapara and Gorumara in
the neighbouring Jalpaiguri) can be seen the gaur or Bison, elephants and the single horned
rhinoceros.
Birds: Darjeeling is the home of six hundred varieties of beautiful birds like flycatchers, fairy bluebirds,
orioles, finches, sunbirds, long-tailed broadbills, Kaleej pheasants, tragopan, Munal, sibia, minivet,
magpie, hornbills, woodpeckers, rufous piculets, emerald cuckoos, three-toed kingfishers, long-
legged falcons, Hoogson's imperial pigeons, emerald doves, besides a large number of seasonal
migratory birds on their way to the plains.
Source: http://darjeeling.gov.in/flora.html; State of the Forest Report – West Bengal, 2009-10.
(b)
(a)
Figure 12.4: Species richness and (a) Forest cover (sq km) and (b) Population density12.
Forests: As of 2010, the notified forest area in Darjeeling district is 1204 km2, of which 1115km2
is reserved forest area and 89 km2 is unclassed forest49. The recorded forest area is 38.23% of
49
State of Forest Report 2009-10, West Bengal, Department of Forests, Govt. of West Bengal.
the total geographical area of the state of Darjeeling district. Of this 43.43 km 2 is degraded
forests50.
The forest survey of India, defines the total forest cover as the actual forest cover plus the trees
outside forests. The State of The Forest Report of Forest Survey of India, 2011 51, estimates that
the total forest cover in the Darjeeling district is 2289 km2, which is 72.69% of its total
geographical area of 3149 km2 and 17.61% of the total forest cover in West Bengal. Area wise
the forest cover of Darjeeling however ranks 4th amongst all the districts in West Bengal, after
Medinipur, Jalpaiguriu and South 24 Parganas.
Between the 2001 and 2011 assessment of the FSI, the Forest cover of the Darjeeling district
shows an increase from 2196 km2 to 2289 km2, thus indicating a net increase of the order of
4.24% (See Figure 12.5). Of the total forest cover assessed by FSI 2011 State of the Forest
Report, the area under very dense forest , moderately dense forest and open forest were
714km2, 663km2 and 912 km2 respectively. Between 2001 and 2011 assessments, the dense and
moderately dense forest area have decreased from 1417 km2 to 1377 km2– a decrease of 2.8%
area. Where as within the same period the open forests have increased from 779 km 2 to 912
km2 between 2001 and 2012, which is an increase of 17.1% (see Figure 12.6).
Forest fires reported from the Darjeeling district show a decline. In 2006-07, about 135 forest
fires were reported affecting 825.80 ha covering the forests areas in Darjeeling, Kalimpong,
Kurseong and Wild Life I. In 2009, the forest fires reported were 20 in Darjeeling and Wildlife I
and the area affected was 58ha. The total encroached area within the forests in the district in
2006-07 was 236.86 sq km in Kurseong, Kalimpomg, Wild Life I and Wild life II and 2009-10 it
reduced to 132.35 sq kms.
Figure 12.5: Trends of forest cover of Darjeeling between 2001 to 201152
50
Wastelands Atlas of India, 2005. Published by Ministry of Rural Development, Deptt. of Land Resources Govt
of India and NRSA, Deptt. of Space., Govt of India.
51
India’s State of the Forest Report, 2011; Accessed from http://www.fsi.org.in/cover_2011/westbengal.pdf
on 17th March 2012
52
Report of the State of the Forests of India, FSI, GOI
Figure 12.6: Change in type of forest cover between 2001 and 2011
Box 12.2 : Cause of Fragmentation of Forests in Darjeeling
Illegal felling of trees from forests some 25-30 years back has lead to the invasion of Mailing
Bamboo in the Darjeeling dense forests. This has now encroached in many forest areas that are
not protected leading to fragmentation of forests.
Source: Discussions with Mr Tamang, Range Officer, Darjeeling District
Tea: Tea is one of the key commercial crops grown in Darjeeling and is sought after world wide
for its unique flavour. The industry in Darjeeling employs 52000 people on a permanent basis
and about 15000 on a casual basis for plucking tea between March to November of which more
than 60% are women53.
Tea was first planted in the early 1800s, the incomparable quality of Darjeeling tea is grown
over about 17,500 hectares of in 87 estates in and around Darjeeling spread across 7 valleys at
altitudes ranging from 200 to 2000 m on slopes with altitudes between 60 o-70o. The very high
rainfall spread over various months is a boon for tea cultivation. Rainfall, humidity, evaporation
rate, wind speed, hours of sunshine, mist, cloud and fog are also important factors in developing
the unique quality of Darjeeling tea. In terms of soil, the average carbon level of soil in Indian
tea-growing areas other than Darjeeling is less than 1%, while it is much higher in the
Darjeeling area. See Table 12.4 for the typical climate, physiographic and geographic
characteristics that create the unique flavor of Darjeeling Tea.
More than 60% of the tea bushes grown in Darjeeling belong to the small-leaved Chinese
variety, Camellia sinensis var. sinensis,. This Chinese hybrid is found almost nowhere in the
world outside China and Japan, except for Darjeeling and the Caucasus. It is easily identifiable
because of its smaller leaves. This cultivar along with the climate conditions enables the
production of volatile flavour constituents (V.F.C.) which are the main architect of Darjeeling
flavor54. The V.F.C. content in Darjeeling tea is three times more with respect to tea from other
areas in the country.
53
http://darjeelingnews.net/tea_facts.html
54
Mahanta & Hazarika (!985). Improve Flavour – Quality assured. Two & a Bud. 32 (1 & 2 ) : 25 – 29
Table 12.4: Climate, Physiographic and geographic drivers for the typical flavor of Darjeeling
Tea55
o Altitude 200 metres to more than 2 000 metres above sea level
o Latitude 26o31’ to 27o13’ north
o Longitude 87 o 59’ to 88 o 53’ east
o Rainfall Average annual rainfall ranging from 1700 to 2 500 millimetres
o Humidity Very high, with fog, mist and occasional snow
o Soil Rich and loamy: in the uplands it is usually red, gritty and residual,
i.e. derived from the weathering of underlying rocks and rich in
organic matter from the surrounding forest cover
o Slope Gradient of 60 o to 70 o: these steep slopes provide natural drainage for the
generous rainfall received in the seasonal monsoons
o Temperature 1 o C to 11 o C with a maximum of 20 o C
o Sunshine Average of 2 to 4 hours per day
o Tea-growing areas Seven valleys, facing the Himalayas
There has been a fluctuating productivity of Darjeeling tea in recent years. Between 1991 to
1998 the production of tea declined by about 37% and in the next few years picked up again
upto 2008. In 2009 and 2010 a declining trend in production has again been observed 56. The
area of production has more or less stabilized at 17500 ha from 2001 onwards. The average
yield is also hovering between 500-650 kg/ha (see Figure 12.7), The average yield is however 3
to 4 times less than that of tea from Assam and the Terai regions in West Bengal 57. Tea yields in
the southern region of India are also much higher – around 2.5 to 3 times that of Darjeeling tea.
Therefore the national average yield of tea is more than 3 times higher with respect to
Darjeeling tea yields at 1800 kg/ha.
However, due to exclusivity of the product, Darjeeling tea commands a higher price with respect
to tea produced from other areas in the country. Even within West Bengal, the price differential
between tea produced in Terai region and Dooars with respect to Darjeeling tea is almost two
times. Also the price has been increasing over the years (see figure 12.8)
Medicinal and Horticulture plantation: Darjeeling grows Cinchona trees, the bark of which is
used for extracting the life saving Anti-Malarial drug Quinine. It also produces Ipecac Cephaelis
ipecacuanha, Indian Gooseberry, and Dioscorea Composita Hemsl, chirota and..... Darjeeling also
grows other horticulture crops of commercial value such as Darjeeling Mandarin, potato’s,
Cardamom, Rubber, Mulberry, Turmeric, Taxus bacata, Broom stick, Citronella, Vetiver,
Lemongrass, and Artemisia annua.
Mandarin oranges is one the best known horticultural products of Darjeeling and are grown in
an area of around 3.58 ‘000 ha and the production is around 33-35 ‘000 tons. Through the
Directorate of Cinchona and other medicinal plants, 1400 MT dry Cinchona Bark were sold at
Rs.5.25 crore (approx.) during 2007-08. But it is a loss making venture (Making losses of the
55
Darjeeling tea, India; Tarit Kumar Datta, Indian Institute of Management Calcutta. Accessed from
http://www.fao.org/docrep/013/i1592e/i1592e03.pdf
56
Source: Tea Board
57
http://www.teaboard.gov.in/pdf/stat/Productivity07.pdf
Figure 12.7: Trends of production (1991-2010), yield (1991-2008) and area of production
(1991-2008) of Darjeeling tea. The Y axis on the right represents the yield58,59.
Figure 12.8: Price trends of Darjeeling Tea in comparison to tea produced in Dooars and Terai
regions of West Bengal60
order of Rs 2.0 Cr annually) and the directorate is diversifing to production of oranges and
rubber.
Darjeeling hills are the natural home for orchid species like Cymbidiums, Vandas,
Dendrobiums, Paphiopedilums, Lycaste, Odontoglossum, Phaius, Arundina etc. The hills have
limitless scope for production of Gladioli cut flowers to cater to the demand of both the
58
Darjeeling tea, India; Tarit Kumar Datta, Indian Institute of Management Calcutta. Accessed from
http://www.fao.org/docrep/013/i1592e/i1592e03.pdf
59
Tea Board; Accessed from http://www.teaboard.gov.in/pdf/stat/Monthly%20Production.pdf
60
Source: Tea Board, Accessed from www.wbplan.gov.in/htm/ReportPub/EcoRev09-10/Econ_Review_2009-
10.pdf
domestic as well as the export market. Cut flower started being traded over three decades
back. Today other cut flowers, besides Gladioli are anthuriums, Orchids particularly
Cymbidiums, bulbous flowers of lilies, ornithogalum. Additionally flowers like gerberas,
carnations and greens like ferns are also grown here61.
Tourism: Tourism, is roughly a Rs.500 crore industry in Darjeeling and bout 500,000 domestic
and foreign tourists visit the region every year62. According to the Indian Hotel Industry survey
report published by HVS29, the tourist inflow is decreasing in Darjeeling (see Figure 12.9). The
political unrest has contributed greatly to the situation. Tourism in Darjeeling is confined within
April to June and from September to October period leaving out the rainy season because of
frequent landslides. However, the economic benefits of tourism reach only a small proportion of
the population.
The rich flora and fauna, the hilly sub tropical and alpine landscape, and the climate are the
factors that drive tourist influx into the Darjeeling district. The major attractions are the view of
the Kanchanjunga peak and the eastern lower Himalayan range; the flora and fauna of the
various national parks, botanical gardens, zoo, Tea gardens, and the various forest and hill
treks; the eco-tourism centers at Lava, Lulegaon, Mongpong and Paren under Kalimpong sub-
division, and Lepchajagat in Darjeeling; the heritage train ride; and the religious places like
monasteries and pagodas and the Mirik lake. These sites are spread across the Darjeeling,
Kalimpong, Kurseong, and Mungpoo.
Figure 12.9: Trends of Occupancy rates in Darjeeling hotels. ID means Indefinite Data63
Forest Products64: The forest products from Darjeeling district include timber, fuel wood,
grazing grass, and minor forest products such as honey, wax, sal seeds, and citronella grass. The
Darjeeling district has 8 saw mills spread over Darjeeling, Kurseong and Kalimpong that handle
timber and the total capacity of these saw mills is 6439 Cu m. In 2009-10, the Kalimpong region
61
http://darjeeling.gov.in/floriculture.html
62
Red Panda – ATREE- Eastern Himalaya Regional Office News Letter, vol 1, Issue 2, July 2008; accessed from
http://www.atree.org/newsletters/redpanda/redpanda_1-2.pdf
63
Indian Hotel Industry Survey, 2008-09, 2009-10 and 2010-11, accessed from http://www.hvs.com
64
Source: State of the Forest Report, 2009-10, West Bengal. Published by Deptt of forest, Govt of West Bengal
produced 825 m3 of round timber and 151 m3 of firewood. The total amount of revenue earned
from timber, firewood, grazing, minor forest products, and other products produced in the Hill
region was Rs. 2.79 Crores. Of this, revenue earned for selling timber was Rs. 2.24 Crores, sale
of firewood earned Rs. 7.40 lakhs, garzing earned revenue of the order of Rs. 0.01 lakhs, minor
forest products were sold for Rs. 16.51 lakh and other products were sold for Rs.30.82 lakh.
Habitats: The urban population in Darjeeling district as of 2011 was 7.18 lakh which is 2.46%
of the total urban population of West Bengal65. The decadal growth rate in urban population of
Darjeeling district between 2001 and 2011 is 38.0%. The main urban centres of the district are
the Darjeeling town and the Siliguri town. The other smaller urban centres being the towns
being Kalimpong and Kurseong in the hills.
Water is supplied to Darjeeling town from the twin Senchal lakes which get water from 26
springs from the catchment area of Senchal Forest and wildlife sanctuary located about 15 km
away66. In the Siliguri town, potable water is supplied from to 30 wards out of 47 wards from
the Tista-Mahananda link canal and from three deep tube wells.
The urban water supply status of the Darjeeling district is shown in Table 12.5. Only 13.99% of
the population in Siliguri, 35.25% of population in Darjeeling, 19.37% in Kurseong and 4.23% in
Mirik get direct piped water. However, in Kalimpong the direct connections cover a larger
population – about 87.06% of the total population of the town. Rest of the population in each of
these towns are getting water from stand posts.
Table 12.5: Status of urban water supply in Darjeeling district as of 31.3.201067
Through the JNNURM programme, in Siliguri town, supply of potable water to 31-44 wards
covering a population of 7.9 lakhs is being targeted to be completed by 2038. The proposed
level of water supply is 70 LPCD. Plans are on to increase the water supply to 135 LPCD. Laying
of distribution network in these wards to ensure connectivity to all households is on68. The
state government through the state funds will further augment Water supply to wards 45, 46
and 47. Water for Siliguri town is drawn from river Mahananda and in the future water will also
be drawn from river Teesta. Augmnetation of water in the Darjeeling town is being done
through Roongunkhola scheme and the Balason River scheme by the Darjeeling Hill Council.
Roof top water harvesting is also being done additionally to augment the water availability in
the town of Darjeeling (1 scheme) and Kalimpong (6schemes). Also the Nerokhela scheme will
65
http://censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/paper2/data_files/wb/4-pop-7-16.pdf
66
http://www.darjeelingmunicipality.org/waterworks/Waterworks.aspx
67
http://www.wbphed.gov.in/applications/im/uploads/001026.pdf
68
http://urbanindia.nic.in/programme/ud/uidssmt_pdf/UIDSSMT_Photos.pdf
supply piped water to Kalimpong from two perennial springs Nerokhela and Dhaulakhola
located 65 and 72 km away. This scheme will also cover rural areas enroute.
The rural population in Darjeeling, according to the 2011 census is 11,23,859 which 61.01% of
the total population of the district69, 929 rural habitations in plains and 1050 rural habitations
in the Darjeeling Hill Council Area70. As of 2009-10, 50 rural habitations in the plains are not yet
covered by potable water supply, 94 are partially covered, 800 are fully covered. Therefore
83.42% of the rural population in the plains of the Darjeeling district have potable water supply.
The source of water for rural population in the plains are the 1170 Tubewells of which 20 have
low water table. In the DGHC area, 49 habitations are not covered, 97 are partially covered and
889 habitations are fully covered. Therefore water supply coverage is for 69.02% of the total
rural population in the area35.
Energy: Power supplied in the Darjeeling district is a mix of hydro and thermal. Jaldhaka I & II,
Teesta Stage I, II, and III, and Ramman Stage III HEP-NHPC are the three Hydro power projects
of capacity 35 MW, 67.5 MW and 50 MW respectively that are supplying power to the
Darjeeling district71. The oldest hydropower station - Sidrapong in Darjeeling having a capacity
of 600 KW was commissioned in 1897, is currently being renovated by WBREDA72. The thermal
power to the district is mainly fed from the Farakka thermal power stations in West Bengal.
Due to proximity to the forest areas, the fuel wood consumption in the rural areas of the
Darjeeling district is one of the highest in the state. A study carried out by Forest Department
West Bengal indicates that the per capita consumption of fuel wood in the rural areas of the
Darjeeling district is around 1305 kg/capita73. An indicative statistics of fuel wood extraction
trends in the Darjeeling area (Kalimpong subdivision) can be found from the data published by
the Forest department (see Figure 12.10). The extraction fuel wood rate varies highly across the
years but is not reflective of the consumption rate, as the demand may be met from sources
other than the forest department extraction source.
.
Figure 12.10: Trends of out-turn of fuel wood from Kalimpong district
69
http://www.census2011.co.in/census/district/1-darjiling.html
70
http://www.wbphed.gov.in/Static_pages/habitation_covered.html
71
CEA CO2 emission Data base 7.0
72
http://www.wbreda.org/energy-small-hydel.htm
73
Source: Anon. 1987. Wood balance study West Bengal (Unpublished). Planning and Statistical cell. Chief
Conservator of Forests, West Bengal Forest Department. Study cited in Book by Devendra Pande, 2002.
Fuelwood studies in India, Myth and Reality. Published by Centre for Forestry Research in India. Bogor Barat.
Indonesia.
Human Health: Diarrhoeal and Respiratory diseases are the two most prevalent diseases in
Darjeeling (see Figure 12.11). Diarrhoeal diseases mostly occur due to consumption of un
potable water. The respiratory diseases in the districts are due to multiple causes, but mainly
due to inhalation of soot emanating from burning of fuel wood in all households and vehicular
fumes from diesel run transport vehicles plying in the hills. Vector borne diseases like malaria
are prevalent in the district, and are found more in the foothills. The health infrastructure is
listed in Table 12.6.
Figure 12.11: Diseases prevalence in Darjeeling districts in 201074
Table 11.6: Existing Heath Infrastructure in Darjeeling District75

Number of Government Hospitals 51
Number of private hospitals 111
Number of sub centres 230
Number of PHCs 23
Number of CHCs 12
Governance: The Darjeeling hill area is under the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council which was
established under the provision of Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council Act, 1988 with the objective of
total social, economic, cultural and education upliftment of Gorkha and other communities of
people living in the Hill areas of Darjeeling District. The jurisdiction of the Hill Council covers an
area of 2476 Sq. Km. covering three revenue Sub-Divisions of Kalimpong, Kurseong and
Darjeeling and 13 mouzas of Siliguri Sub-Division and has control over 19 development
subjects.
On July 18, 2011 a tripartite pact was signed between the Union Government, the top leaders of
Gorkha Janmukti Morcha and the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal leading to the
creation of Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA). The new administration will be
vested with powers to regulate 54 subjects. The agreement envisages more powers for the
Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council, or DGHC. Essential services like in health, education and water
supply sectors could improve as per the new pact. Gorkhaland Territorial Administration will
74
Health Statistics. Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of West Bengal, Accessed from
th
http://www.wbhealth.gov.in/Health_Statistics1.asp?pass_file_id=25&stat_main_id=100 on 18 March 2012
75
http://www.scribd.com/doc/50928270/RHS-FINal-West-Bengal
have territorial jurisdiction over the three subdivisions of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kurseong.
Governance of Tea estates under the Council is still under discussions.
The Terai region of the district including Siliguri is under the Darjeeling District Administration
of Government of West Bengal.
Current concerns of Darjeeling district

Water availability
Inadequate coverage of drinking water supply: Water is sufficient in the Terai region of the
Darjeeling district, however, the only problem is in its distribution for drinking water vis a vis
coverage of habitations, which is being addressed through the JNNURM prgramme which is part
of the Rajiv Gandhi Rural Water Supply Mission of the GOI.
Heavy run off during monsoon: In Darjeeling district, four fifth of the total annual precipitation
pours within June – September. Most of the water in monsoon runs off without being collected
across the steep slopes, and as a result, only a small percentage of it is available for various uses.
Water scarcity in the non-monsoon months: During the lean period (January to May) there is a
water stress situation in the hill region. An acute drinking water crisis exists due to lower
stream flow in the 26 springs feeding to the twin Sinchal Lakes. Further, the matter is
exacerbated by the skewed distribution system and significant distribution losses made in the
old British water supply system.
Land slides
Geological composition of rocks: The mountainous region of Darjeeling district belongs to the
parts of the active Himalayan Fold-Thrust Belt (FTB), which is geologically and structurally
complex exposing a number of overturned (towards south) and thrusted sequence of variably
metamorphosed pelitic and psammitic rocks over the foreland sediments of Mesozoic
(Gondwanas) and Tertiary (Siwaliks) sedimentary rocks in the south. Due to its complex
geological and structural setting, the rocks in this region are of variable competence and are
traversed by a number of penetrative discontinuity surfaces, which represent evidences of its
complicated multi-phase deformation. In most parts of the Himalayas, therefore, the rocks are
highly folded, thrusted and are affected by both ductile and brittle deformations. Moreover, due
to active tectonic behaviour of this FTB, geomorphic adjustments in landforms are quite rapid
and somewhat continuous, which are frequently represented by numerous denudational
landforms in this region in the form of medium to large landslides, continued ground
subsidence etc. followed in the down slope by thick accumulation of colluvial deposits. The
above inherent geological factors make this active FTB fragile and more prone to various forms
of gravitative geomorphic processes76.
Monsoon rainfall and cyclonic events: Other than tectonic movements leading to land slides,
landslides get triggered during heavy monsoon rainfall and even by cyclonic winds reaching
76
Inspection note on the recent field visit (7th to 8th September 2011) to different landslide-prone stretches
in Darjeeling Himalaya By Dr. Srinivas Madabhushi, Deputy Director General & H.O.D., Geological Survey of
India,
Eastern Region, Kolkata; Accessed from www.portal.gsi.gov.in/gsiDoc/pub/inspection_note_ddg_hod_er.pdf
this region. For example, Darjeeling district was severely affected by the cyclone storm Aila in
2009. Heavy landslides occurred as a result of incessant and heavy rainfall along with gusty
winds for which conduit systems of connection Springs and Jhoras Balason River as source were
greatly damaged, pipelines of Neorakhola Water Supply schemes were completely damaged at
many sections on account of landslides and uprooting of trees.
The most landslide prone areas are:

o Stretches along NH-31 (hatisure, Berik, 27 Mile landslide near the vicinity of Tista Low
Dam Hydel Project - Stage-III, 28 Mile landslide on NH-31A, Lukuvir rockslide, NH-
31A)38
o Stretches near Darjeeling town and along NH-55 and SH-12A sections (Darjeeling-Ghum
section of NH-55, SH-12A covering landslides at Balason, Margaret’s Hope and Ambutia
landslide from Mirik ridge, and Gayabari Tea Garden on Sh-12A)38
Agriculture
Limited scope for multiple cropping: Agriculture of the region is mainly Rainfed and the
season is distributed within Pre-Kharif and Kharif seasons. Cultivation in drier months is limited
to small patches where residual moisture / limited irrigation from nearby rivulets are available.
High runoff and soil erosion during Monsoon: Almost all arable lands have a slope of more
than 8%. In some extreme cases poor farmers are seen cultivating very steep slopes of 40% or
even more. During monsoon, the excess water runs off fast across these slopes leading to heavy
soil erosion and hence loss in soil nutrient.
Inability to conserve run off in hilly areas for irrigation in lean period: Since the annual
rainfall is mainly concentrated between June to September, the hill farmers face surplus water
for five months and acute scarcity during dry months from February to May.
Soil conditions: In the hilly areas of Darjeeling, the soil in general is shallow, medium to light
textured, surface drainage is rapid. It is highly susceptible to erosion by water and internally is
well drained with reasonably high in organic matter, poor in bases and phosphate and distinctly
acidic in nature. In the Terai region, the soil is acidic, sand laden, prone to Sheet & rill erosion,
gully formation, and susceptible to stream bank erosion. Mining activities also affect the top soil.
Lower development of irrigation in the terai region: The terai region has sufficient ground
water, but this region within the Darjeeling district has had very low ground water development
~ of 5% only of its potential.
A number of floral and faunal species in Darjeeling district are rare and/or threatened. Some of
them have been recorded by various authors. A list of some of the rare and threatened species is
shown in Table 12.7.
Table 12.7: Threatened flora and fauna in the Darjeeling area77,78

s.no Family Scientific_name Rdb_status Distribution sites &_average altitude
Flora
1 ACERACEAE Acer hookeri Endangered Darjeeling, 600-1500 m.

Darjeeling (endemic), Salombong, Birch
2 ACERACEAE Acer osmastonii Endangered
hill.
3 ACERACEAE Calamus inermis Kurseong
Endemic to Singaleela range in the
4 APIACEAE Pimpinella tongloensis Endangered
Darjeeling-Sikkim Himalaya.
5 ARECACEAE Phoenix rupicola Rare 450 m.
Darjeeling, Peninsular India. 1000-1500
6 BEGONIACEAE Begonia scutata Rare
m.
7 BEGONIACEAE Begonia satrapis Darjeeling
8 BEGONIACEAE Begonia rubella Darjeeling
Darjeeling and Sikkim Hiamalaya. 1830-
9 CAMPANULACEAE Codonopsis affinis Rare
3335 m.
10 COMMELINACAEAE Tricarpelema giganteum Darjeeling
11 ERICACEAE Rhododendron edgeworthii Darjeeling
12 ORCHIDACEAE Bulleyia yunnanensis Rare Darjeeling hills.
13 ORCHIDACEAE Cymbidium eburneum Darjeeling
14 ORCHIDACEAE Diplomeris hirsuta Vulnerable Darjeeling. 1500-2000 m.
15 POLYPODIACEAE Christiopteris tricuspis Indeterminate Darjeeling.
16 RANUNCULAEAE Aconitum ferox Darjeeling
17 RUBIACEAE Hedyotis brunonis Rare -
18 RUBIACEAE Hedyotis scabra Rare -
19 RUBIACEAE Ophiorrhiza lurida Rare Darjeeling. 300-1500 m.
20 THELYPTERIDACEAE Christella clarkei Vulnerable Darjeeling. 4000 m.
21 THELYPTERIDACEAE Metathelypteris decipiens Rare Darjeeling
Endemic to Sikkim and West Bengal.
22 VITACEAE Cissus spectabilis Endangered
Fauna
1 Red Panda Ailurus Fulgens Fulgens Endangered Eastern Himalayas incl.Darjeeling
2 The snow Leopard Uncia uncial Endangered Darjeeling
3 The Clouded Leopard Neofelis nebulosa Endangered Thrives at altitude upto 2000 mts
4 The Salamander Philautis Dubious Endangered Sangalila Park
77
Red Data Book Plants of India (Nayar and Sastry 1987-88), accessed from
http://oldwww.wii.gov.in/nwdc/threatened_plants_westbengal.pdf
78
Checklist of Rare and Threatened Taxa of West Bengal, Taxa: 14; Source: ENVIS Centre on Floral Diversity.
Botanical Survey of India, Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India; Accessed from
http://indiabiodiversity.org/content/checklist-rare-and-threatened-taxa-west-bengal
Population Pressure
In recent decades, greater access to the global market has increased the demand for natural
resources in the area encouraging both immigration from outside and movement within the
Darjeeling region. The conversion of forests and grasslands for agriculture and settlements has
led to deforestation and habitat fragmentation in Darjeeling.
Over exploitation of natural resources
The flora of fragile alpine meadows has been overexploited for traditional medicine (because
medicinal plant collectors invariably uproot the entire plant, regrowth is retarded). Further,
harvesting of large quantity of seeds are making some species slide to rare to rarer status, for
example, the endemic cold hardy palms Trachycarpus latisectus (Windamere Palm) of
Darjeeling Himalaya79. There are many other overriding besides seed harvesting, which are also
contributing to this. Fuelwood collection and non-timber forest product extraction, both for
domestic consumption and export, has inflicted severe damage to some forest ecosystems.
Unplanned and poorly managed tourism has led to environmental deterioration. Widespread
logging, both legal and illegal often occurs on extremely steep slopes, resulting in severe
erosion and hence affecting biodiversity.
Man Animal Conflict: Poaching is a serious problem in the Himalayan Mountains, with tigers
and rhinoceros hunted for their body parts for traditional Chinese medicine, while snow
leopards (Uncia uncia, EN) and red pandas ( Ailurus fulgens, EN) are sought for their beautiful
pelts.
Forest fires and Infrastructure development: Other threats to biodiversity and forest integrity
include forest fires, construction of roads and dams for hydropower.
The West Bengal government through its Forest department and the Botanical and Zoological
Survey of India has created a number of National Parks and Wild Life Sanctuaries that help to
protect the flora and fauna of Darjeeling Himalayas (see list in Table 12.8).
Table 12.8: The wild life conservation and protected areas in Darjeeling
National Parks Singalila 78.60 sq km
Neora valley 88.0 sq km
Sanctuaries Jorepokhri Salamender 0.04 sq km
Senchal 38.88 sq km
Mahananda 158.04sq km
Zoological Park Padmaja Naidu Himalayan

Zoological Park, Darjeeling
79
B. S. Kholia and Ranjan Joshi. 2010., International Year of Biodiversity - Reviewing Practices for
Conservation in Eastern Himalaya and Northeast India, NeBIO (2010) Vol. 1(2)
Darjeeling Tea80
Productivity in Darjeeling hills as discussed earlier in the chapter low compared to other
regions of India. The various reasons attributed to low production are attributed to:
Existence of Low yielding variety: 60% of Darjeeling tea belongs to China variety, which is
considered to be a very low in yield.
Limiting climatic conditions: High humidity, very low sunshine hour, high rainfall, and
extremely low temperature deter higher yields. It has been observed by scientists that varieties
with leaves shooting up vertically are higher yielding, and appropriate climatic conditions
enable vertical shooting up of leaves.
Recurrent droughts: Since 1998 it has been Box 12.3 : Actions by GOI to address
observed that premonsoon droughts are setting in concerns in tea plantations of Darjeeling
as no rainfall/minimal rain fall is received during
A Special Purpose Tea Fund (SPTF) has
October to March. Recurrent premonsoon been created by the Government of
droughts are causing general reduction in size of India, which is expected to contribute
the plants and wilting of the bushes. This happens significantly to revival of the tea industry
also because the bushes have surface rooting and in Darjeeling. The programme envisages
do not go deeper. Impacts compounded by non achieving the target of increasing
availability of irrigation facilities. productivity of age-old bushes over next
15 years. Rs.4761 crore is estimated to be
Low depth of soil: Comparatively low depth of spent in this 15 years period including
expenditure of Rs. 4360 crore for the
good soil and stony region at shallow depth does
replantation programme and Rs. 401
not help the roots to go down access the moisture
crore for the rejuvenation programme1.
and nutrients at greater depths.
Further, an agricultural export zone for
Increasing incidences of Pests: Excessive pest Darjeeling tea is being planned with the
attacks are taking place. Photo and thermotropic support from the tea board. A tea park is
pest population is increasing. being set up in 70 acres of land in Siliguri.
A special purpose vehicle (SPV) will be set
Age of plantation: 66% of the plantation belong up to develop the tea park with public
to age group of above 50 years and only 16% private partnership. The public sector
partners are Tea Board, Siliguri Jalpaiguri
within 10 year age group.
Development Authority (SJDA) and
WBIDC.
High use of inorganic fertiliser: Impact of over
use of inorganic fertiliser especially nitrogen
fertiliser impacts Muscatel flavor and is well
documented by various reserachers81,82,83. In Darjeeling, massive use of chemical fertilizers and
pesticides in the past has reduced topsoil quality and fertility, further affecting the overall
natural and environmental condition of the area
80
From literature survey and in consultation with Dr. Sayyed Edward Kabir, Assistant Prof., Deptt. Of Tea
Science, University of North Bengal, Siliguri
81
Cloughley, J.B. (1983). Effect of harvesting policy and nitrogen rates on the production of tea of Central
Africa.II. Quality and total value of crop Exptt. Agric. 19 : 47 –54.
Heavy dependence on inorganic pesticides: Residual pesticide detected in Darjeeling tea is

slowly leading to its lower appeal in the international markets.
Difficult terrain: Naturally decelerates the quantum of activities. The steepness of the slopes
has made the area very prone to environmental hazards in the form of regular soil erosion and
occasional landslides. Soil fertility is reduced as a result of the erosion of topsoil.
No scope of further expansion of area under tea cultivation: There exists restrictions on the
expansion of the area under tea are mainly a result of topographical factors, irrigation problems,
lack of an economy of large-scale production and a prohibition on forest clearing. Lack of
infrastructure such as roads and bridges which makes transfer of goods expensive
High cost of production: The slopes of Darjeeling’s tea estates are so steep that ploughing can
be done only manually, thereby increasing production costs. The hilly terrain also increases
input costs: higher procurement costs for workers’ rations, maintenance of supply lines, higher
fuel costs, frequent power cuts, high costs for transporting the picked leaves from the plantation
to the factory, then for transporting the made tea from the processing site in the hills to
warehouses in Kolkata.
Lack of adequate infrastructure: Poor infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, results in a
loss of workdays and a deterioration in the quality of the tea. The transportation of goods is
highly time-consuming and costly because of the poor condition of the narrow roads due to lack
of maintenance. Furthermore, weight restrictions on traffic on the hilly roads – for example,
vehicles with loads of more than 5 tons are not allowed to use the hilly roads of the Darjeeling
area – represent another impediment to the cost-effectiveness of the tea industry.
Medicinal Plants
Some of the constraints associated with promotion of commercial cultivation of medicinal

plants are:
o Unorganized production. The concept of Commercial production yet to be introduced.
o Absence of reliable information/database on production, procurement, processing and
marketing channels in the State limiting the scope for identifying mapping the potential
for development, addressing the infrastructure needs and market linkages.
o Lack of awareness among farmers
o Absence of a mechanism to create awareness among the farmers
o Inadequacies in input supply including plant material, technical / extension support
o Totally unorganized marketing with middlemen and intermediaries deciding the prices
for the produce often to their advantage.
Tourism
Though eco-tourism is being advertised in Darjeeling to attract tourists but it does not have a
focus on conservation. Consequently, ecotourism which is supposed to protect biodiversity has
started to negatively impacting wild habitats and species of the region.
82
Utnelisvili, M.I. (1974). The effect of nitrogen fertilizer of tea productivity and quality. Subtrop. Kul’t 3 : 28 –
30
83
Wilson, K.C. and Choudhuri, R. (1969). Fertilizers and Tea quality. Two & a Bud, 15 : 92 – 95
Urban Habitats- Siliguri84
Rapid increase in population: The town of Siliguri because of its strategic location and
business opportunities it provides, has over the last 3 decades seen a rapid increase in
population. Between 1991 and 2001 there was a 221% increase in population (see figure
12.11). Rapid increase in population due to migration has lead to mushrooming of slum areas.
In Siliguri, 42 slum clusters exist that house 36.8% of the total population and 31.4% of the
total households of the town as per the 2001 census. The number of families dwelling in these
slums are 13850.
Figure 12.11: Population growth trends in Siliguri town. Source: Census of India
Pressure on Drinking water scarcity: Increase in population has also put pressure on direct
piped drinking water supply which presently covers only 13.9% of population in Siliguri. Plans
are on to cover the entire population in next 20 yrs. Also the quality of water is not uniform
across the population to which it is supplied. Domestic waste water contains organic and
inorganic matter which is in suspension, colloidal and soluble states in varying proportion.
Heavy traffic and transportation problems: With increase in population vehicular traffic has
increased in the town, with no substantial expansion of roads. The major roads are connected
only to the heart of the town where commercial activities are restricted. Narrow roads are
incapable of both ways heavy traffic and eventually frequent traffic congestion occur. Since the
opening up of the new bridge over river Teesta near Jalpaiguri town, the entire traffic to and
from North-Eastern India follow this shorter route along Siliguri Jalpaiguri State Highway
avoiding the circuitous Sevok Road route, leading to overcrowded Hill Cart Road-Bardhaman
road access.
Pollution of river water: The river Mahananda in Siliguri carry raw sewage due to discharge of
raw domestic and industrial sewage into the water and this is the river from which water is
84 Basu Roy and Sinha. 2011. A study on factors related to urban growth of a municipal corporation and
emerging challenges: A case of Siliguri Municipal Corporation, West Bengal, India. Journal of Geography and
Regional Planning Vol. 4(14), pp. 683-694, 18 November, 2011 Available online at
http://www.academicjournals.org/JGRP
ISSN 2070-1845 ©2011 Academic Journals
drawn for drinking purpose as well. In many cases dumpsites are located indiscriminately and
proper management of waste is not done. Various constituents of wastewater are potentially
harmful to the environment or to public health in the Corporation. The river water and sub-
surface water are vulnerable to be polluted which is used by the consumer and thereby creating
intestinal disease.
Threat to biodiversity: With encroachment into share of Agricultural land, Water bodies,
vacant land, for expanding town is threatening status of biodiversity and ecological components
which in the future may trigger enronmental and biodiversity degradation.
Urban Habitats- Darjeeling Urban Agglomerate
High population growth rate: Between 1991 and 2001 the population in the Darjeeling urban
agglomerate increased by 48%. However, the growth rate has slowed down between 2001 and
2011, and the increase is about 26% only between this period. See Figure 12.12.
Figure 12.12: Trends of population growth in the Darjeeling town. Source: Census of India
High density of housing exceeding recommendation of the UDPFI85: The Darjeeling town has
grown only along the Hill cart road with the major growth on the western slopes owing to steep
slopes on the east. Existence of a single commercial center has restricted the sprawl of the town,
making the city center more vulnerable to landslips, and over straining the infrastructure. The
average density of the developed area is twice the recommended density by Urban
Development Plan Formulation & Implementation (UDPFI) and the range of variation in the
ward density is too high.
Pollution of water and choking of channels50: Since no systematic waste management system
exists, most of the waste in the town is dumped along the Jhoras which choke the channel,
pollute the water and hamper the drinking water supply.
Pressure on Housing50: The residential areas are characterized by high density, high-rise
structures and slums. This has happened due to absence of development controls and
85
Envis News Letter, Volume II, July-sptember 2006. Human settlements. Centre for Environmental studies,
School of planning and architecture, New Delhi.
regulations, leading to increase in construction on unbuildable slopes. Being situated in seismic

zone IV, these higher buildings on vulnerable slopes are potential death traps
High traffic density and air pollution50: Due to absence of adequate mass rapid transport
system, vehicles on the road have increased leading to vehicular congestion and pollution.
Observed trends in Climate and Projected Changes in Climate
Box 12.4: Observed Trends in Climate in the Darjeeling district

o Temperatures are rising all across the district. In Darjeeling hill area the annual average
temperature in the last 100 years has risen by as much as 4oC. In Klaimpong the
temperature rise is of the order of 3oC
o Rainfall has become erratic in terms of quantity and timeliness
o Rainy days have decreased considerably from 165 -140 days to 155-35 days in recent years
o Relative humidity is rising rapidly
o More sunshine days observed in the hills than in the Terai region
o At times monsoon like weather extends upto November in Siliguri
o Snow fall is also erratic in the hills across the years. Poor snow fall in more number of
years than excess
o Flash floods in the foot hills have increased
Source: Based on discussions and findings of Dr. Subir Sarkar, Head, Deptt. of Geography, North Bengal Univ.
The projections of climate change are for 2021-2050 with respect to base line 1961-1990 and
are derived using PRECIS regional climate model with GHG drivers deduced from the IPCC A1B
scenario. Details can be seen in Chapter 4.
Projected Rainfall86: The Darjeeling District is not likely to experience any change in
precipitation during monsoon period in the mid century (2021-2050) with respect to base line
(!961-199). However, it is likely to increase by 1.25 times in the hilly areas between Oct-Dec
period with respect to base line. During Jan to February, there is likely to be decrease in
precipitation by 0.15 times with respect to base line and a slightly lower decrease in rain fall
during March to May.
Projected Extreme rainfall87: Number of rainy days likely to decrease by 1-5 days and
intensity of rainfall likely to increase by 1-2 mm/day.
Projected Temperature88: The average annual maximum and minimum temperatures are
likely to rise by 2.0oC to 2.2oC by mid century (2021-2050) with respect to base line.
See summary of the projections in Table 12.9.
86
Refer to Figure 4.4 in Chapter 4 of this document
87
INCCA Report no.2, 2010. The 4x4 assessment. Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India.
88
Refer to Figure 4.5 in Chapter 4 of this document
Table 12.9: Summary of projected changes in climate in 2021-2050s with respect to base line
(1961-1990) in Darjeeling Districts
Climate parameter Likely Changes
Rainfall
June-Sept. = NO CHANGE with respect to base line scenario
Oct-Nov ↑ Increase by 1.25 times wrt base line scenario for the same
season
Jan – March ↓ Decrease by 0.15 times with respect to base line
April- May ↓ Decrease by 0.05 times wrt base line
Extreme rain fall
No of rainy days ↓ Likely to decrease by 1-5 days
Rain intensity ↑ Likely to increase by 1-2 mm/day
Temperature
Min Temperature ↑ Likely to increase by 2.0 to 2.2oC
Max Temperature ↑ Likely to increase by 2.0 to 2.2oC
Implications of climate change projections

Water resources
Impact of increase in rainfall between October to December with respect to base line: A
positive implication can be drawn from this projection, as water during this season can be
stored to avoid drinking water stress conditions generally seen in the hilly areas in the lean
period and as soil moisture levels increase, possibility of expanding agriculture activities to
Rabi season including cropping of new crops not planted earlier due to water stressed
conditions can be explored.
Impact of increase in extreme precipitation events: Extreme precipitation events are a

potential threat and increase in their frequency by 1 or 2 days and intensity by 1-2 mm/day is
likely to lead to heavier soil erosion and landslides even in non prone areas as well and block
roads and access to markets and other social infrastructure leading to extensive economic
losses. The landslides are likely to damage water conservation structures and water pipes
affecting drinking water availability. Farmers may be forced to abandon their farming activities
due to landslides. High rate of silt loads in the streams and rivers are likely to lead to frequent
flash floods during monsoon in the valleys and the plains leading to overloading of storm water
drainages and waste water systems making the water from the two to mix and pollute fresh
water reservoirs affecting health of the population. The flash floods then are likely to water log
standing crops for a long period of time in the plains due to inadequate drainage and affect the
availability of potable drinking water.
Melting of glaciers: The Major rivers flowing through Darjeeling district are originating from
glacier fed (see Box 11.5) and therefore highly vulnerable to climate change. Melting of glaciers
due to rise in temperatures is likely to have serious implications on water availability in this
region, in near to long term future. As melting in the near future may increase the flow, but
continuous recession of the glaciers with further warming, the flows are likely to decrease,
converting them to rainfed rivers, and making them non-perennial.
Increase in flash floods: Increase in extreme precipitation may lead to more frequent flash
floods that will flow down to the terai region causing overloading of the drainage system unless
it is equipped to drainout the excess water, flood the plains, and as a consequence damage
standing crops on the river plains, affect infrastructure, and potability of drinking water in these
areas.
Box 12.5: Glacial origin of major rivers flowing through Darjeeling District
Teesta: Originates from Tso Lhamo lake in North Sikkim at an elevation of 5,330 m (17,487 ft) above sea level
in the Himalaya. This lake is formed by the melting of the Teesta Khantse glacier.
Rangeet: Originates in in West Sikkim district. A perennial river, it is fed by the melting snow of the
Himalayas in early summer and the monsoon rains in July–August. While flowing towards Darjeeling District
in WB it joins the Teesta river at Teesta Bazaar on the border of WB and Sikkim.
Mahananda: The Mahananda originates in the Mahaldiram Hills in Himalayas near Chimli, east of Kurseong
in Darjeeling district at an elevation of 2,100 metres. It flows through Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and
descends to the plains near Siliguri.
Balalson river: The Balason river originates from Lepchajagat, located at Ghum Simana Ridge at an altitude of
2361 m in the Senchal Hill area.
Jaldhaka: The Jaldhaka river is formed by the conjunction of three streams - Bindu Khola, Dudh Pokhri
and Jaldhaka that originates from the Kupup lake, a small glacial lake in eastern Sikkim. The Jaldhaka
river forms a riverine boundary with India and Bhutan in the left bank.
Agriculture
Impacts on crop yields due to increase in temperature : The major crops grown in Darjeeling
district such as rice, wheat, pulses, and oil seeds are likely to experience decrease in production
due to rise in temperature. However, with doubling of CO2 concentration, the yields of all crops
are likely to increase with increasing temperature upto about 2 oC, but beyond this if the
temperature rises then the yields reduce. Except in the case of C4 plants which can use more
efficiently the enhanced concentration of CO2. Maize which is a C4 plant when exposed to
doubled CO2 concentrations, gains in yield even beyond 2oC (upto 3oC)89. Therefore Maize might
be a preferred crop fro growing in a climate change scenario.
89
Robert J. Redden, Shyam S. Yadav, Jerry L. Hatfield, Boddupalli M. Prasanna, Surinder K. Vasal, and
Tanguy;2011. The Potential of Climate Change Adjustment in Crops: A Synthesis Lafarge; Chapter 24 in the
book entitled Crop Adaptation to Climate Change, First Edition. Edited by Shyam S. Yadav, Bob Redden, Jerry S.
Shifting up of agriculture production centers to higher altitudes and opening up of

opportunity for hardy crops to grow at lower altitudes: In order to offset the impact of rising
temperatures, higher altitudes may offer conducive climate for the current crops. However, at
lower heights more temperature tolerant varieties which are generally the indigenous varieties
can continue to grow.
Increase in volume of soil erosion in hilly area due to increase in extreme precipitation and
land slide: Due to increase in soil erosion, it is expected that there will be loss in soil nutrient
and as a result though rainfall during monsoon is not likely to decrease, but yields might still
decrease. Further damage to crops and infarstrucure is expected due to heavier and frequent
land slides even in non prone land slide areas. This can lead to decrease in agriculture incomes
as access to markets is cut off.
Damage to standing crops in the Terai region due to flooding and in the hills due to land
slides: High runoff due to extreme precipitation may lead to more frequent flash floods in the
valley below i.e in the Terai region. As a result damage to standing cro frequent ps is expected.
Also due to land slides damage to crops in hill region might be a recurrent feature every year.
Infestation of pests and diseases: Already increase in infestation of pests and diseases has
been observed in rice in the region. Climate change and variability can lead to an
o increase in the population and life cycles of existing pests,
o an invasion of alien species of plants or animal pests,
o lead to reduction in tolerance and/or increase resistance of crops to pests and disease,
o lead to increase in food toxins (mycotoxins) such as Aflatoxin, and the appearance of
new strains of toxin-producing fungi,
o loss of some wild relatives of crops that could be used to introduce desired traits in
classical and modern crop resistance breeding programs,
o a reduction in beneficial organisms that are used to control pest and disease,
o a reduction in the effectiveness of safe pesticides and herbicides90.
Possibility of harvesting additional Rabi crops: One of the positive impacts of climate change
in Darjeeling district is the projected increase in precipitation during October to November
period with respect to base line. This will help retain moisture in the soil facilitating intensive
sowing, growth and harvesting of Rabi crops.
Forests and Biodiversity
As per the INCCA report 201091, no change in forest cover in the entire North Eastern
Himalayan region including Darjeeling is expected due to changing climate in the mid century.
This will enable the forests to still exist in their current area if a business as usual policy is
followed.
Hatfield, Hermann Lotze-Campen and Anthony Hall, 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Published 2011 by Blackwell
Publishing Ltd
90
http://www.spipm.cgiar.org/climate-change/-/asset_publisher/7MmQ/content/farmers-face-increased-
pest-populations?redirect=%2Fclimate-change
91
INCCA, 2010. Report no. 2. Impacts of climate change on 4 sectors in 4 regions
However, in reality, the dense forest cover

Box 11.6: Epiphytic mosses reducing in Darjeeling
including moderately dense forest cover, has
Forests
reduced from 65% to 60% of the total land
area between 2001 and 2011 (see section A regular trekker in the Himalayan region, Mr
11.1 on forests), where as open forest area Animesh Basu of Himalayan Nature and Adventure
has increased within the same period. Foundation, Siliguri, during discussions indicated that
Encroaching in forests and forest fires have in the last 30 yrs he has observed slow and steady
created fragmented forests leading to loss of disappearance of epiphytic mosses in the Darjeeling
habitats for many floral and faunal species forests including Neora valley national Parks, Senchal,
and reduction in realization of forest products
and Singalila sanctuaries which are protected). This
such as timber, fuel wood, honey, rear
was also corroborated by Mr. A P Das, Prof of Botany,
medicinal plants and other products. Climate
North Bengal University who has extensively worked
change can further exacerbate the situation.
in the region to study the flora.
Some of the likely impacts of climate change Epiphytic mosses in these forests play an important
on Darjeeling Himalayan forests and its role in the hydrology of these forests. Their presence
biodiversity are as follows. increased canopy leaf surface and better rainfall
interception and absorption of moisture. Water
Loss of habitats for flora and fauna: If the
storage by mossy epiphytes is well known. They can
scenario of fragmentation of forests
hold water from 1-2 lts/sq cu m (as per PHE
continues and dense forest areas reduce the
estimates). Epiphytes also supplement with
faunal species living in these forests might
secondary metabolites providng them nesting,
have to move to higher heights to live in
breeding and moisture for other biota. It is well
conducive habitats. Space crunch at higher
known that Epiphytes are sensitive to climate and are
heights can lead to competition for survival,
and as a result the species can become more the first community to show drastic response to
rear or become totally extinct. Example, the changes in Climate.
snow leopard, and the Himalayan bear etc.
About Epiphytes: Source: Shashidhar A N and Arun
Kumar; 2009. The Indian Forester. Accessed from :
Shifting of the forest line to higher altitudes
http://www.indiaenvironmentportal.org.in/files/Effec
and slow disappearance of the subalpine
t%20of%20climate%20change%20on%20orchid.pdf
forests: As temperatures increase, it is likely
that the forest line will shift upwards, as the
vegetation will seek suitable climate for it to thrive. As a result the area of subalpine vegetation
currently thriving at 3000-3700 m may reduce or actually may be pushed out and become
extinct due to lack of space in this region. The native tree species in the subalpine regions of
Darjeeling that are thriving now at 3000-3700 m height are Putli, Lekh Kapasi, Arupate,
Sindure Katus(Castanopsis sp.), Yew (Taxus bacata), Tsuga brunoniana, Abies densa, Junipers,
Birch (Betula utilis), Rhododendrons, Salix, Berberis, and medicine alpine herbs will move
upwards and some of them become extinct. Therefore, sensitivity of these different species to
thermal stress is an important area of stidy.
Changes in species composition at different altitudes impacting ecosystem services and

livelihoods: As temperatures rise intrusive species are likely to invade the lower altitudes and
earlier leafing, flowering, fruiting, bird egg laying, spawning of amphibians, and changes the
cycle of arrival of migrants and insect emergence can change the species level interactions,
eventually leading to ecosystem-level changes. Changes to ecosystems can affect their ability to
provide essential services, such as carbon sequestration, food provisions, and other forest
products. This in turn will affect livelihood of communities dependent on forest products.
Increase in forest fires: As the climate warms, the soils are likely to be drier in the summer
months as time goes by leading to conditions for forest fires to occur naturally. Forest fires may
accelerate species turnover or select fire-adapted species92. In the same way, changes in species
composition may alter fire occurrence by changing the concentration and arrangement of
flammable fuels93. Increase in forest fire incidences would lead to increase in crop predation in
fringe villages by species driven out of the forest like White Rumped vulture and Slender Billed
vulture which are now rarely sited in the district.
Increase in man animal conflict: As the forest produce less, animals dependent on the same
will seek food outside forests for their survival, leading to frequent man animal conflict. The
Himalayan bear, is currently seen seeking its food outside the forests.
Tea productivity
The Darjeeling tea gets its typical flavour from the prevailing climatic conditions in the region.
The tea bushes sustain at temperatures ranging between 1-11oC and not exceeding 20oc. Grow
in soils with rich organic matter with sunshine hours at least for 2-4 hrs a day, and 1700-2500
mm of annual rainfall receipt and at high humidity, fog and mist and occasional snow
conditions. The flavor may be at stake due to climate change.
Tea Production centers may move to higher altitudes and lose current levels of
productivity: With warmer climate as the prevailing temperatures may not be conducive to
growth of the bush at the altitude it is now growing and as a result the tea production centre in
Darjeeling may shift to higher altitudes, and may find lesser area at higher heights, and more
difficult terrain, making production economically unviable.
Soil erosion and loss in soil nutrient likely to take place due to extreme precipitation
leading to loss in productivity: Further with increase in extreme precipitation events the top
soil containing organic matter that is so important for the bushes may get washed away, leaving
the tea plants nutrient deficient.
More frequent land slides damaging tea bushes over large areas: Due to increase in extreme
precipitation events, more frequent landslides may damage the plantations, resulting in high
financial damages.
Increase in drought days likely to affect tea yields unless appropriate technology
introduced: As the extreme rainfall events increase with decreasing number of rainy days,
drought conditions may set in during monsoon period for longer periods of time if the rains get
delayed, because of which again the growth and yield of tea is likely to get further affected with
respect to what it is facing now due to doroughts.
92
Overpeck, J.T., D. Rind, and R. Goldberg, 1990: Climate-induced changes in forest disturbance and
vegetation. Nature, 343, 51-53, doi:10.1038/343051a0
93
Bond, W.J. & Keeley, J.E. 2005. Fire as a global “herbivore”: the ecology and evolution of flammable
ecosystems. Trends in Ecology and Evolution, 20(7): 387–394.
Increase in infestation of pests and diseases: With change in climate increase in infestations of
pests (e.g blister blight, tea mosquito bug, red, pink and purple, mites, thrips, termites, red slug
caterpillar, looper caterpillar, green leafhopper etc.94)and diseases might occur or new strains of
pests and diseases might infiltrate the region, leading to reduction in tea yields.
Horticulture plants
Medicinal Plants95,96
Cinchona: The plant widely grows in tropical regions having an average minimum temperature
of 14°C. Mountain slopes in the humid tropical areas with well distributed annual rainfall of
1500-1950mm are ideal for its cultivation. Well drained virgin and fertile forest soils with pH
4.5-6.5 are best suited for its growth. It does not tolerate waterlogging.
Clearly increase in temperature due to climate change beyond the threshold level that Cichona
grows at, will impact its growth and hence impact the bark thickness from which Quinin is
extracted.
Ipecac Cephaelis ipecacuanha: is also grown in Darjeeling Ipecac prefers an average rainfall
ranging between 2000-3000mm which is evenly distributed across the rainy season. Maximum
temperature should not exceed 38C and the minimum not below 10C. It thrives well in tropical mild
humid climates similar to Malaysian rain forests. Virgin forest soils rich in humus are ideal for Ipecac.
It prefers deep medium fertile soils which are acidic and rich in humus, potash and magnesium. Soil
should be well drained and protected from wind and storm. As Ipecac grows only in shade, it can be
cultivated as an intercrop, or planted in artificially shaded beds.
Here also temperatures beyond the range of sustenance, and increase in extreme precipitation with
decrease in number of rainy days will have impact on the yield. Also forest soils full of humus are its
original habitat. If the dense forest cover decreases as the temperatures increase due to change in
species composition, Ipecac is likely to have loss of habitat and may become extinct.
Indian Gooseberry: Is a hardy plant and may acclimatize itself in the changing climate
conditions. Is a source of Vitamin C.
D. Composita Hemsl: Is a form of yam and is a source of steroidal drugs. Is found at heights of
1000-3000 m. This is too a hardy plant and may survive climate change.
94
Gurusubramaniam and Borthakur, 2005. Gurusubramanian G. and M. Borthakur: Integrated management of
tea pests. In: Field management in tea (Eds.: A.K. Dutta, S.K. Baruah, N. Ahmed,
A.K. Sarma and D. Burugohain). Tocklai Experimental Station, TRA, Jorhat, Assam Printing Works Private
Limited, Jorhat, Assam, India. pp. 159-172 (2005).
95
PP Joy et al., 1998. Medicinal Plants, KERALA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, Aromatic and Medicinal Plants
Station, Odakkali, Asamannoor P.O., Ernakulam District, Kerala, India. PIN : 683 549. Accessed from
http://ppjoy.tripod.com/PDFs/Bk%20Medicinal%20Plants.PDF
96
Biswas, K. and Chopra, R. N. 1982. Common Medicinal Plants of Darjeeling and the Sikkim Himalayas.
Periodical Experts Book Agency, D-42, Vivek Vihar, Delhi-110032. 157p.
Fruits-Mandarin orange
Puffing of the skin occurs in Mandarin oranges due to high temperatures and high rainfall. Peel
pitting97 may also occur and damage the fruit at low temperature, high winds and low relative
humidity in the winter period during Jan to April when the rainfall is likely to decrease with
respect to base line. With increase in temperature fruit maturation is likely to advance which
will not only impact the quality of the juice within but also reduce the period of
commercialization98. It has been reported by the farmers that there has been an increase in the
incidences of pests in Mandarin oranges over the years.
Flowers- Orchids
Orchids adapt through diverse mechanisms for survival and reproduction in inhospitable
conditions creating a xerophytic environment in the canopy. In case of drier conditions
(drought conditions), apart from developing morphological adaptation, many orchids exhibit
physiological adaptation with Crassulacean Acid Metabolism which facilitates uptake of CO2 at
night and fixing during day with closed stomata to reduce water loss by transpiration. However,
under higher temperatures this process is likely to be affected as stomata closes under stress
conditions, and may remain so even in the night.
There is an inter relation ship between orchids and other biota such as insects, butterflies,
moths, wasps, flies mosquitoe’s and birds that help the orchid to pollinate and germinate. Since
insects are very sensitive to changes in climate, their survival will be almost the first effects of
climate change and hence orchids which are dependent on them for reproduction will in turn
will be affected. Further, habitat degradation and fragmentation of forests also affect survival of
orchids. However, if the initial condition of degradation is overcome, orchids can survive in the
secondary forests as well which are relatively disturbed99.
Box: 12.7: Current observations of people in the Hills on flora and fauna
The blooming of flowers in the hills have now shifted to January from February. As a result the
migratory birds coming to the Hills in the February is reducing effecting dispersal of pollens and
hence survival of the different floral species is at stake. Earlier sparroes used to be seen all over,
but now are missing in action,
A case in example is marigold, it seems their productivity has decreased over the years
Source: www.thehimalayanbeacon.com/magazine/2009/12/06/darjeeling-no-swallows-no-snow-and-
soon-no-apples-either/
97
‘Peel pitting’ in the flavedo (the coloured epicarp) of ‘orange arises as chlorotic spots. These spots
correspond to parenchymal flattening and collapse of a variable number of sub-epidermal cell layers, which
increase in parallel with the epidermis, extending between apparently healthy zones. The first signs of cellular
damage are associated with internal membrane disorganization of the plastids. Great vesiculation of the
cytoplasm occurs, followed by degradation of cytoplasmic membranes and accumulation of abundant
osmiophilic material, yielding amorphous and dense masses.
98
Augusti M, Martinez Fuentes A., Mesejo C. 2002. Citrus Fruit quality- Physilogical basis and techniques of
improvement. Agrociencia. Vol VI, No 2, Pg 1-16; Accessed from www.fagro.edu.uy/~agrociencia/VOL6/2/p1-
16.pdf
99
Shashidhar A N and Arun Kumar; 2009. The Indian Forester. Accessed from
http://www.indiaenvironmentportal.org.in/files/Effect%20of%20climate%20change%20on%20orchid.pdf
Ecotourism
Climate change can adversely affect natural attractions of the Darjeeling Himalayas through
glacier retreat, avalanches, landslides and flooding, gradual extinction of many species of flora
and fauna, and damage to forest ecosystems through fire and insect infestation. Any changes in
the physical characteristics of climate can potentially have negative consequences for tourism
industries. In such cases, the quality and volume of tourism would likely be significantly
diminished.
Urban Habitats and Transport
Other than the Pressure on urban infrastructure due to migration and increase in population in
general, climate change impacts are specific and can manifest as follows:
Impacts of extreme rainfall: Extreme rain fall may lead to more frequent land slides, damaging
infrastructure such as water pipes, roads in the urban areas as well.
Increase in electricity demand for additional for space cooling: In the summers, it might not
be still necessary to use fans or ACs in hill towns now, however, with warming, cooling
requirements in summers within residences and commercial complexes might soar up
electricity demand.
Impact on Transport: Higher population in the cities/towns will lead to demand for more
transport options, and if mass transport systems are not provided for, there is likely to be more
vehicles on roads leading to traffic jams and higher emissions of GHGs and other pollutants.
Energy availability
Lesser availability of quality fuelwood as forests degrade and fragment: Fuel wood in hill
areas is extensively used even in the urban areas for cooking and space heating. As climate
change is likely to degrade forests further, fuel wood may become scarce, unless steps are taken
to afforest continuously with fuel wood species that can adjust to climate change or help the
population shift to alternate sources of energy for cooking and space heating. A sustainable
management of fuel wood extraction can be a Carbon neutral system.
Impact on hydropower: As climate changes, glacier melt is a reality. Therefore the glacier fed
rivers are likely to have good and faster flows initially, however, as the glacier recede more,
flows are likely to reduce. In that scenario generation of hydropower dependent on adequate
water flows might be affected leading to an energy crunch situation in the Darjeeling district.
Human Health
Higher incidences of malaria: The windows of transmission with humidity levels exceeding
55% and the temperature above 14oC in the region is now limited to few months in a year.
However, with increase in temperature, the transmission window of malaria vectors (14-40oC)
will be available for more number of months and will be compounded by the increase in
humidity and therefore incidences of malaria is likely to shoot up, not withstanding control
measures. The incidence level may increase much more than what it is now (refer to figure
11.11) when malaria shifts to higher and higher altitudes. Even now, Mosquitoe’s are in Lava
which is at a height of 7200 ft and even at the Singalila national park100.
Emergence of other vector borne diseases not still occurring in these regions: Other vectors
that are never seen in this regions may find a conducive climate to breed in.
Shorter life cycles of pathogens leading to higher incidences of vector borne diseases: Due to
degradation of forests due to climate change, the micro climate may change, whereby the
vectors are likely to adapt themselves by evolving shorter lifecycles, thereby multiplying faster.
Increase in O3 related deaths and respiratory diseases: Even if the vehicle population does
not increase but fuel currently used are combusted in the vehicles, higher levels of ozone are
likely to persist for a longer period of time as rainy days decrease and the climate warms 101.
Ozone loads and related deaths are likely to increase in the atmosphere with increase in vehicle
population, with no shift towards renewable fuels. Similarly load of other pollutants including
particulates emitted from burning of fuel wood for cooking, and used for space heating, is likely
to have longer residence time in such climate conditions. The other drivers of increase in
respiratory diseases might be increase in allergen loads in the atmosphere such as pollens as
temperatures rise, and increase in molds in damp houses due to higher level of humidity in the
air as extreme precipitations increase and also due to recurrent flash floods in the plains.
Increase in water borne diseases: Diarrhoeal incidences in Darjeeling district (refer to figure
11.11) are high even in the present climate and are likely to escalate as temperatures increase,
with level of pollution in water increasing due to faster degradation of organic elements in
water resources. Similarly, the probability of increase in frequency and intensity of occurrence
of Typhoid and cholera incidences increases as well.
Rise in Malnutrition cases: With increase in temperature local produce of food crops is likely to
reduce, except those which belong to C4 family. Therefore it is likely that malnutrition levels
may increase as productivity oflocal food crops decrease.
Lower access to safe drinking water: As extreme precipitation events rise, leading to flash
floods, the terai region may face water logging and hence access to potable drinking water
might be an issue there.
Increasingly heat stroke incidences might occur: With rise in maximum temperatures by 2-
2.2oC, the elderly and the children are likely to be effected as their heat tolerance levels are
minimal, especially in the hill areas, rise in incidences of heat strokes,
The Darjeeling district lying in the eastern Himalayan region is also is a part of the greater
Himalayan region and hence its ecosystem is closely linked with that of the extremely complex
larger Himalayan biosphere. Any changes in this biosphere due to the changing climate will
affect the ecosystems thriving in the region directly or indirectly.
The National Mission for Sustaining Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHEs), which is one of the 8
missions of India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change therefore is an extremely important
100
As referred to By Prof. Subir Saha, Head, Geography Deptt. Univerity of North Bengal.
101
Though with increase in humidity levels, the O3 levels may come down as H2O is a scavenger of O3.
mission. It aims to have a greater understanding of the dynamics of the system for undertaking
developmental works in the region that can be in sync with the changing responses of the
Himalayan biosphere to climate change.
Keeping this in view therefore, the NMSHEs specifically aims to (a) carry out extensive studies
to understand scientifically the complex processes affecting this eco-system, (b) evolve suitable
management and policy measures for sustaining and safeguarding the Himalayan eco-system
including Himalayan glaciers and (c) work with different stake holders such as the states lying
along the Hilamalyan region, its people, and the different line ministries responsible for
implementation of various developmental programmes to integrate climate change in the
development process .
The review undertaken in this chapter clearly identifies that there are existing concerns that are
hindering development of different sectors in the Darjeeling district and that climate change
will heighten the current concerns unless climate proffing of development is systematically
carried out. This would necessitate implementation of adaptation strategies that would
essentially-
o Align themselves along the tenets of the National Mission on Sustaining Himalayan
Ecosystems
o Expand the scope of the existing programmes to accommodate the impacts of climate
change
o Develop and implement additional new strategies to facilitate adaptation to climate
change
o Build institutional capacities and capacity of all stake holders towards understanding
the pathways through which climate change manifests itself in various systems and
towards building technical capacities for facilitation of implementation of adaptation
action.
Water –Supply and demand side management
Develop a water policy for the district: Towards development of an efficient system for
augmentation, distribution and management of water resource keeping in view the typical
circumstances of the hilly and the terai regions.
Create additional reservoirs to store excess runoff water in the monsoon102 and water
from additional rainfall projected to be received during Oct-Dec period: with respect to
base line in the hill region- Other than building the reservoirs, this will also entail an estimation
of water demand keeping in view the increasing temperatures as well as increase in population
both for the towns as well as rural areas in the future (next 100 yrs). Additionally, renovation of
old reservoirs to avoid leakages, and new structure for runoff storage and rain water harvesting
need to be built once areas where they can be built are identified.
Prepare for combating adverse impacts of projected rise in extreme precipitation events:
Increase in frequency and intensity of soil erosion, land slides leading to blocking of rivers,
roads, damage to standing crops, and flash floods are some of the adverse impacts of increase
in extreme precipitation events due to climate change. Adaptation actions would include
102
During monsoon, the two twin storage tanks in Sinchal actually receive water from only 8-10 spriings only,
as additional water from other springs cannot be accommodated in these tanks.
updation of landslide prone area map of the hills, identification and implementation of
appropriate measures for fortifying the identified land slide prone areas by keeping the soil
mass free of moisture, increasing shearing resistance of the soil, training of streams to prevent
damage, and other anti land slide measures. To avert damages due to flash floods, canals for
diverting excess water in rivers can be created. Further to prevent water logging after flash
floods augmenting/ renovating/dredging of the drainage system of the terai region can be
planned keeping in view the likely level of water flow in the future during flash floods.
Prepare monitoring and evaluation plans to check the integration of climate change
concerns in water management – This will enable the implementing agency to take mid course
correction if mal-adaptation is taking place due to a certain action.
See table 12, in Annexure 1 for Adaptation strategies, actions, timelines and budgets for
managing water in Darjeeling hills in climate change context.
Total Cost: 11th Plan: Rs 1237.00 Cr; 13th Plan: 1177.00 Cr
Agriculture
Some of the key adaptation strategies for sustainable agriculture in the Darjeeling district can be
as follows:
Facilitate agriculture cropping centres to survive at lower latitudes even at higher

temperatures: As temperatures increase the cropping centres are likely to shift upwards.
Considering the space cruch in the hills, degraded forest lands that are cultivable and can be still
used for cultivation can be allocated partially for such use. Or else agriculture under shades
may be promoted to avoid higher temperatures. Investments in Agroforestry as well as using
greenhouses need to escalate.
Promote Indigenous food crops of the region so as to maintain food security in a climate
change scenario- The indigenous varieties are more heat tolerant and therefore can be
promoted in the district. The actions will include identification of indigenous crops that are
grown in the region such as pulses, oil seeds, rice, maize, millets etc. Creation of community
seed banks will help their fast absorption in the villages. Preservation of Germ plasm of the
indigenous varities would ensure availability in the future. However, impact of climate change
on these varieties must be identified to develop measures to fortify them against adverse
impacts when they are growing. True promotion can only take place when niche markets are
identified and procurement prices of the yields are made attractive for the farmers to be
encouraged to grow the same.
Undertake soil conservation measures and anti slide measures along hilly slopes growing
crops to avert soil erosion and loss in soil nutrient. The activities that can be promoted
include narrow bench terracing, aided natural regeneration, contour bunding of slopes, and zero
tillage technology and Green manuring both in hill and terrain regions.
Promote integrated management of emerging and current pests and diseases: Develop
Integrated Pest and Disease Management Plan that identifies crops suitable for a particular
altitude, promotes use of certified diseases free seeds, identifies the organic fertilisers
applicable, identifies the relevant bio pesticides, and other methods for avoidance of pest and
diseases such as intercropping etc. farmers can be trained for producing organic fertilisers and
bio pesticides
Intensify agricultural activities in the Rabi season: Excess moisture storage in soils due to
additional rains in Oct-Dec in Mid century with respect to base line opens up opportunity for
Rabi crops. Identify the Rabi crops that can be grown and popularize the same.
See table 13, in Annexure 1 for Adaptation strategies, actions, timelines and budgets for
Agriculture Sector
Biodiversity and Forests in Darjeeling Himalays
The key strategies for protection of biodiversity and forests in Darjeeling Himalays would
ofcourse be the conservation activities being done by the government, however the following
strategies will give it a climate change focus:
Plan activities to reduce open forest area, enhance quality of moderately dense forests and
protect dense forests from degrading: Activities need to be planned for enhancing quality of
forests would include-
o Regulation and monitoring of invasive species and identification and planting of non-
native species that can survive climate change and be beneficial to the ecosystem,
o Develop packages for Integrated management of insects and pests
o Plant short rotation species in degraded forests
o Prevent forest fragmentation by conserving contiguous forest patches
o Undertake eco restoration of degraded open forests103 and grasslands at the base of
Darjeeling Himalayas 104.
Empower communities living in and around forests to manage forests for enhancing its
quality, for conserving biodiversity, preventing fire and benefitting through payment for
ecosystem services rendered: Within the Joint forest management activities the concept of
ownership of forests by communities that live in and around forests with rights on its resources
including wild life can be promoted. By undertaking conservation of forests and its resources
they can realize economic returns from payment for ecosystem services rendered, payment for
helping store C in the forests, and by selling wild life products that have a niche market.
Additionally they can be encouraged to plant fire resistant trees in the aftermath of fires, to
prevent future fires and through this also reap payment for C sequestered. Thus they can
generate attractive economic returns and hence be encouraged to protect biodiversity and
quality of forests and prevent forest encroachment. Ofcourse the activities need to monitored so
an not to let them abuse the rights. Further continuous scientific and technological guidance
needs to be provided to maximize returns. The guidance to their conservation measures canbe
provided bythe forest department as planned to reduce open forests and upgrade quality of
moderately dense forests.
103
Eco restoration approaches include using indigenous species rather than exotic species, creating species
mosaics by matching species to particular sites, using species mixtures rather than monocultures, or
encouraging the diverse plant understories that can often develop beneath plantations.
104 It involves protection of area, removal of Weeds, reseeding of Grass Species, organic fertiliser Application,
legume Introduction, providing soil Amendments
,
Establish long term systematic monitoring of flora and fauna in Darjeeling Himalayas:
College and University students can be engaged to record the existing flora and faunal species in
Darjeeling Himalays and this can be repeated each year by different batches to record the
changes if any and decipher the signals and impacts of climate change and devise policies and
actions for conservation of the species that are threatened. The design of the project has to be
precise so that each observation is revisited for verification year after year and documented for
posterity.
Devise suitable strategies for conservation and facilitating species migration to adapt to
climate change. : As climate becomes warmer the flora and fauna accustomed to the current
climate will start shifting towards conducive climate and which is likely towards higher
altitudes. To facilitate a smooth transition, conservators, foresters, academia together need to
develop a master plan for species migration in the district. Conservation and creation of
dedicated corridor’s is one such measure.
Devise strategies for preventing man- animal conflict: The aim of this strategy is to have
sustainable forests that help wild life to thrive within the limits of the forests and prevent
encroachment of human population into forest areas. Undertake land use planning to ensure
that both humans and animals have the space they need by creating a buffer zone between
human and wild life habitation to which the wild life is not attracted.
See table 14, in annexure 1, for Adaptation strategies, actions, timelines and budgets for
Biodiversity and Forests.
Box 11.7: Developing drought resistant

Darjeeling Tea varieties of Darjeeling tea
Avoid shifting of production centre to higher Through mass selection process, the
altitudes: Research needs to be undertaken to researchers in India have identified
identify and create cultivars that will adjust to the Darjeeling tea plants with broad leafs and
changing climatic conditions and retain the aroma deeper rooting system.
and flavour of the Darjeeling tea. This will also entail
identification of farming practices that will facilitate These are being grafted on tea stalks in
the growth and production of these cultivars. The the upper part with broad tea leaf variety
other option is to create shade over the plantations and in the lower part with a variety having
that will minimize the effect of rising temperature. It strong rooting system
can be in the form of tress that are not too dense.
Such plants are being raised in the
nurseries and being tested now on a pilot
Managing tea from adverse impacts of droughts:
basis for their productivity and
For sustaining tea productivity during periods of
sustenance.
droughts immediate strategies that would help would
include identifying and implementing measures to Source: Discussions with Prof. JE Kabir,
retain soil moisture such as contour trenching etc. Department of Tea Science, University of
The other strategy is to create additional water
North Bengal
reservoirs to store water for irrigation during Oct-
March when rain fall is scarce. The third strategy is to
undertake research for developing water stress tolerant cultivars (see Box 11.5).
Combating excessive soil erosion and land slide due to likely increase in extreme rain fall:
This will involve covering the soil with application of standard practices that will be suitable to
tea plantations such as planting of grass/legumes/ creepers or any other that will stop soil
erosion. Also will need to create structures to reduce speed of water along the contour lines –
wooden barriers, bench terraces and contour bunding can be some of the options.
Managing Pests and Diseases via organic route: Enhanced levels of pests and diseases are
expected with increase in temperature. Therefore it is imperative to develop Integrated pest
and diseases Management Packages that take into account identification of bio fertilisers and
bio pesticides. Options of using chemical fertilisers needs to be made minimal as residue of
pesticides in tea does not attract buyers.
See table 15, Annexure 1 for details of Adaptation strategies, actions, timelines and budgets for
protecting Darjeeling Tea productivity .
Medicinal Plants
Medicinal Plants such as Cinchona, Ipecac Cephaelis ipecacuanha, Indian Goose berry, Medicinal
yams (D. Composita Hemsl), chirota and Jinseng are some of the medicinal plants found in the
Darjeeling hill areas and cultivated commercially. All have specific temperature thresholds, and
soil conditions, and moisture requirements within which they survive. These conditions are
changing with climate therefore some of the adaptation strategies can be:
Developing heat resistant medicinal cultivars: Research needs to be undertaken to develop

cultivars that are heat resistant and still give the level of productivity to sustain
commercialization.
Retention of soil moisture in natural habitats of medicinal plants – forests: As indicated

earlier in this chapter, the soil moisture in the forests is decreasing due to loss in mosses, and
soil cover, making dense forests getting fragmented and invested by weeds (bamboo) that can
thrive on less moist conditions. Therefore conservation and eco restoration of forests is a
measure through which water retenstion capacities of forest soils can be increased.
Darjeeling Manadarin orange

The key adaptation strategies can be the following:
o Facilitate drainage of water during excessive rain
o Avoid soil erosion
o Develop cultivars that are thermal resistant to enable flowering and fruiting in sync with
seasonal changes
o Develop and implement packages for Integrated management of pests and diseases
o Disseminate technology through KVKs
Orchids
As the natural habitats of Orchids are in the forests, its important therefore to prevent
fragmentation of forests to boost growth of epiphytes that in turn boost moisture retention in
the epiphytes that help grow orchids.
See Table 16, in Annexure 1, for Adaptation strategies, actions, timelines and budgets for
medicinal plants, oranges and orchids
Total Cost : 12th Plan: Rs 147.00 Cr; 13th Plan: Rs 192.00 Cr
Ecotourism
Since ecotourism is likely to remain a tourist attraction in the district if the quality of the
biodiversity of the region does not deteriorate drastically. Since one of the major drivers of
degradation of biodiversity is tourism, ecotourism with a focus on conservation of biodiversity
with a climate change focus would help attract the tourists in long times to come. Therefore a
policy on ecotourism needs to be developed for the district that will protect the biodiversity of
the Darjeeling Himalayas and also boost their income of the local communities. The elements of
the District policy could be as follows105:
o Establishing Eotourism Directorate

o The Directorate to provide
• Uniform and inclusive definition of ecotourism across states
• Guidelines on multi-stakeholder constitution of state directorates
• Guidelines on criteria to monitor and incentives
• Inputs on constitutional provisions on decentralized governance and
international negotiations 3. State directorate to
o Set up a management cell and streamline processes for the following tasks
-Develop indicators for assessment and monitoring according to the accepted
definition
- Assess proposals,
- Register enterprises
- Certify and monitor based on indicators
o Facilitate establishment of Institute of Ecotourism for training, research and
contributing to monitoring and decisions.
o Design appropriate incentives for conservation and community benefits and tax on
natural capital used in high end tourism.
o Identify and establish exclusive eco-tourism zones
See Table 17, in Annexure 1, for Adaptation strategies, actions, timelines and budgets for
medicinal plants, oranges and orchids
Total Cost : 12th Plan: Rs 1.00 Cr; 13th Plan: TBD
Urban Habitats, Energy and Transport
The following adaptation strategies are suggested.
105
http://sikenvis.nic.in/docs/eco_tourism_white_paper.pdf
A detailed assessment of water requirements and availability in the future vis a vis rising
temperatures due to climate change: This will enable planning water management in the
context of climate change.
Develop a blue print for addressing the additional energy requirement of the district in the
context of climate change through the renewable energy route: Undertake a study to assess
the additional requirement of energy and Map natural resource potential across the district –
hydro, biomass including fuel wood, and solar radiation. Identify regions, target population and
feasible renewable energy mix that can be used for generating electricity locally. Implement
pilots in different regions of the district with different renewable energy mix models. Cover
supply to 50% of the targeted population in the 12th plan and extend to rest 50% in 13th plan.
The solar mission can be tapped for funding here. This also fits into the electricity policy 2003 of
the government whereby disaggregated production of electricity is encouraged. In the case of
fuel wood, if sustainable management practices are propagated then controlled use of this
source is also a viable option within the energy mix for Darjeeling district as its C neutral
Retrofit the designs of large Hydropower reservoirs keeping in view the climate change
impacts: Hydropower being the key electricity source in the Drajeeling district, it might be
worthwhile to undertake an assessment of hydropower reservoir capacities in terms of water
availability in the future as the rivers on which these hydropowers are made are all glacier fed.
As indicated in the chapter earlier water from glaciers is likely to vary in the future with respect
to current levels.
Map and treat the erosion prone areas in and around urban habitats keeping in view the
likely intensity of extreme rainfall in the future in the urban centres and along roads
leading to the urban centres: This advance planning and treatment will protect infrastructure
and minimize damages and rebuilding costs.
Develop Integrated Transport plan for all the towns of Darjeeling district with initial focus
on Siliguri and Darjeeling town: The integrated transport management plan needs to consider
the ultimate aim of limiting GHG and other pollutant emissions and accommodate the ever
increasing demand for transport by encouraging public transport. The elements of this
integrated plan would focus on :
o Introduction of battery operated vehicles in the hill towns for mass transport system –
This can be point to point as well as city to the plains.
o Creating no vehicle and walking zones in city centers
o Expansion of roads where, flyovers ever, dedicated bus corridors for rapid transport
wherever possible to ease congestion in the plains; and constructing alternative roads
in the hills
o Construction of walking bridges for Plains and escalators for the hilly areas
o Construction of disable friendly side walks
o Strict pollution checks
o Retiring vehicles older than 15 yrs
o Letting trucks enter cities only in the night etc.
See Table 18, Annexure 1 forAdaptation strategies, actions, timelines and budgets for Habitats,
Energy and Transport
Total Cost : 12th Plan: Rs 445.50 Cr; 13th Plan: 1665.00 Cr

Combating impacts on Human Health
Bridge gaps in health infrastructure as identified in the NRHM review: The requirement of
trained health professionals, health centes, testing laboratories, disgnostic centres, medicine
stock and outlets etc. will meet the current requirement satisfactorily and ensure treatment of
disease as disease incidences or new diseases emerge due to climate change.
Introduce communisation of Rural Health management in Darjeeling hill area:

Communisation will enable management of health by the community itself with the help of
trained professionals and facilitate prompt disease prevention and curative actions as the
communities will audit funds flow into the villages, and use it as per their requirement of
facilities and some of them can be trained for basic health curative measures.
Ramp up IDSP by seeking direct reports from the CHCs which have information provided by
the communities on incidences: The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, is an
excellent programme of the government of India to track disease amongst its population and
deploy necessary personnel and items to address them. However, the intelligence has to be
gathered from community level to further strengthen the same and help better manage the
health system. The IDSP can also including monitoring the flow of all the services provided by
all levels of health centres including funds on a regular basis. This will also enable IDSP to
gather data, understand trends, create models that can help develop early warning systems to
help districts to take actions in advance.
Develop telemedicine facilities in remote areas: This is especially important for enabling
people in remote areas to consult specialists and then seek right suggestion for treatment. The
specialists in the private hospitals and retired specialists from government hospitals can be
engaged for this service.
Provide helicopter pickup for patients from remote areas: This is an important element of
treatment of patients from remote areas. The district hospitals can keep this facilities or should
have funds to acces these facilities for mobilization of critically ill patients from remote areas.
Undertake study to specifically identify future disease prevalence with climate change and
vulnerable population: The study will enable health policy augmentation of the Deptt of health
Govt of West Bengal and also will enable future planning of the infrastructure requirements to
climate proof human health in the district.
Develop disaster risk reduction plans in view of likely increase in land slides due to increase
in extreme events, and during disease outbreaks based on inputs from the scientific
assessment: This needs to be developed jointly with the Disaster Management
Authority/deptt./ division of the district. The plan is intended to ensure rapid mobilization of
doctors, nurses, and other peripheral staff to the effected area and ensure post traumatic
treatment etc.
See Table 19, Annexure 1, for Adaptation strategies, actions, timelines and budgets for
combating impacts on Human Health
Total Cost : 12th Plan: Rs 476.00 Cr; 13th Plan: 500.00 Cr
Total tentative Cost for Darjeeling District
12th plan: Rs 3912.00 Cr; 13th plan: Rs 5661.00 Cr

13. Sundarbans
The Sundarban delta is the largest estuarine delta in the World and is spread over India and
Bangladesh. The Sundarbans was originally measured (about 200 years ago) to be of about
16,700 sq km. Because of the partition of India, Bangladesh received about 2/3 of the forest; the
rest is on the Indian side.
The Indian administrative region of Sundarbans lies within the state of West Bengal, and
spreads over an area of 9630 sq km from 21o30’ to 21o15’N and 88o10’ to 89o10’E (see Figure
13.1). Of this 5363 sq kms is reclaimed area and 4267 sq km has been declared as the
Sundarban Biosphere Reserve and houses some of the most exotic fauna such as the famous
Royal Bengal Tiger and mangrove flora including the Sundari tree after which the region has
been named. The entire mangrove area protects the inland area from the recurrent cyclonic
disturbances and storm surges that occur in this area.
Legend :
N a t io n a l P a r k N
R e s e rve F o re s t
W ild lif e S a n c t u a r y
In t e r n a t io n a l B o u n d a r y
D is t r ic t B o u n d a r y
B lo c k B o u n d a r y
D a m p ie r H o d g e s L in e
( B io s p h e r e R e s e r v e B o u n d a r y )
S c a le 1 : 8 0 0 ,0 0 0 N o r t h 2 4
0 20 40 P a r g a n a s
K o lk a t a
A N G L A D E S H
ER
R IV
C a n n in g
S o u t h 2 4
I
P a r g a n a s
GL
HU
G osaba
B a s a n ti
B
B a s a n ti
P a th a r P r a tim a
Sagar
B A Y O F B E N G A L
Figure 13.1 Map of Sundarbans region in West Bengal
Sundarban Profile
Physiography: The Sundarban delta has been formed by the continuous deposition of silt
carried down by the Ganges and Brahmaputra river system into the Bay of Bengal for more than
70 million years. The silt load carried by the Ganges and Bramhaputra varies from 1 to 1.67
billion tones aqnnualy. A large part of the sediment reaches the sea through two marginal
estuaries- Hugli in the west and Padma-Meghna in the east. But the tide pushes back a portion of
sediment load through creeks and rivers. The silt-laden water spills over the flood plain during
high tide and recedes during low tide and thus land along the flood plain of these rivers gets
elevated. So Sundarban area is identified as active delta. The part of the delta is identified as
matured when it is elevated above highest high water level. Then the area gets sediment deposit
only during flood. When the rivers area decayed, the area is described as moribund delta (see
Figure 13.2). The sub aqueous delta, as seen in the satellite image, extends far south from the
coastline into the Bay of Bengal.
Figure 13.2: The different parts of the Sundarban Delta106
Despite receiving such sediment load, there has been no appreciable growth of new land along
the coast during last three centuries. There are various factors which are together responsible
for this condition of the delta. It is reported by the experts the delta building is impeded due to
siphoning of sediment away from the coast through the Swatch of No Ground107 or the
106
Kalyan Rudra, The proposal of strengthening the embakment- Myth and reality. Accessed from
http://www.counterviews.org/sunderban_aila.html ; accessed on 25th March 2012
107
The Swatch of No Ground is a shelf canyon that deeply incises the Bengal shelf near the Ganges–
Brahmaputra river mouth, cuts the foreset beds of the subaqueous river delta and acts as temporary
depocenter between river mouth and Bengal fan. Sedimentation rates in the Swatch of No Ground
are highest near the canyon head at B50 cm a_1, decreasing to B15 cm a_1 in 600m water depth.
The canyon deposits consist of intercalated fine (silt–clay) and coarse (silt–sand) grained deposits.
submarine canyon of the Bay of Bengal. Secondly, destructive waves continuously attack the
southern littoral tract and erode land. Thirdly, slow subsidence due to auto - compaction of
newly deposited sediment surpasses the effect of accretion.
The important morphological features of the Sundarbans are its tidal rivers, creeks and canals,
fresh water river system, beaches, mudflats, coastal dunes, sand flats, estuaries, creeks, inlets
and mangrove swamps.
Climate: Due to proximity to the sea, the temperatures throughout the year in Sundarbans are
moderate though it is situated in the south of Tropic of Cancer. Average annual maximum
temperature is around 35oC. The summer extends from middle of March to mid June, and the
winter is from Mid November to February. The monsoon sets in the middle of June and
continues upto October. It experiences cyclonic disturbances between May to November, with
some of the cyclones maturing into severe cyclones. The average annual rain fall is 1920 mm,
most of which falls between May to October. Sundarban area is cyclone-prone, monsoonal and
low-lying. This area experiences slightly more than 4 cyclonic events per year of varying wind
forces.
Soil: The soil of the region can be generally classified in five groups, namely, clay soil, heavy
soil, sandy loam, sandy soil and silty soil. The entire area may be divided into low salinity up to
8 ppt and moderate to high salinity from 8 ppt to 20 ppt. The salinity has seasonal variation
with minimum from July to October, moderate during November to February and highest
during March to June. On the whole, the soils of the region are fertile and suitable for productive
agriculture but optimum use is constrained by poor drainage conditions during wet season and
lack of irrigation in the dry season.
Water resources: Seven rivers flow through the Sundarbans. In the western part of the
Sundarbans are the Hoogly river and the Muriganaga which originate from the Ganges river. In
the Western part the 5 rivers that flow through it are Saptamukhi, Thakuran, Matla, Gosaba and
Harinbhanga also had upstream connection with the ganges.
Due to heavy siltation and disposal of solid waste from adjacent cities, the rivers in the western
part of the Sundarbans no longer receive fresh water from the upstream ganges and are totally
tidal fed. However, these rivers do receive fresh water during monsoon which lasts for a period
of May to October.
Due to continuous tidal activity, however, the surface water in Sundarbans is saline and
unusable for human and livestock consumption.
Sweet water or potable water is drawn from Box 13.1: Facts about the Embankment
aquifers at depths 200 to 400m.
Length of the embankment 3500 km
The Embankment: Between 1777 and 1971, Number of drainage sluice 862
continuous deforestation and land reclamation Maintained by Deptt. Of Irrigation
activities have been carried out in the and Water
Length of river embankment
Sundarbans region in the ones densely forested
On estuaries 700 km
Mangrove area. Forests were cleared for
Length of rive embankment
Agriculture by the British. Clearing of forests on medium estuaries 2750 km
did not however, facilitate beginning of Length of sea dyke 50 km
agriculture on the flood plain which tended to Without mangrove cover 2000 km
Source: West Bengal HDR, 2009

be submerged under saline water during high tides. Therefore a 3500 km long embankment
was built along the bank of creeks and along the sea shore to prevent the ingress of saline water.
Thus the spill-over of silt-laden water on floodplains was also assumed to be restricted.
However the embankment impeded the dynamics of sedimentation. It made silt get trapped
within the embankments and the river beds got filled with silt, making the channels
increasingly shallow. As a result the river beds got elevated but the flood plains remained at the
same height. Consequently, the rainwater falling on the floodplains remains stagnant for a long
periods of time and the tidal inflow has been transformed into a tidal bore which breaches the
embankment often..
Administrative area, Population and Land use: The area of 5364 sq. km. of non-protected
area covers 54 islands and a part of the mainland as well, and has dense human settlement.
Originally, around 1780s, human settlement in this region took place through clearing
mangrove forests and constructing a 3500 km long earthen embankments or dyke to protect the
islands from tidal waters.
The human settlements in Sundarbans area covers the sub divisions of Kakdip, Baruipur,
Diamond harbor, and Canning in South 24 Parganas district, and Bashirhat in North 24
Parganas district and is into 19 blocks of which 6 are in North-24 Parganas and 13 are in the
South 24-Parganas districts having 190 Gram Panchayts and 1064 villages.
The total population in 2001 in this region was 37.56 lakhs and has grown to 43.75 lakh in
2011108 (see Figure 13.3a). In 2001, the density of population was 929 people/sq km and about
5,40,000 households with an average size of 6.9 persons per household resided in the area. In
2011, the density has increased further with increase in population and decrease in land area to
about 1082 persons/sq km.
Major land use in the Sundarbans region2, is for agriculture and homestead garden purposes,
which is around 304834 ha and 41812 ha respectively and together constitute 65% of the total
area under Sundarbans. The forests occupy 15% of the total area of this region. A substantial
part of the Sundarbans – about 18% is classified as residual area by the Sundarban Affairs
Deptt., which includes the continuous land building and destructing process in the region. The
land use distribution is depicted in Figure 13.3b.
Forests: The forest area of Sundarban covers an area 4265 sq. km and is reserved for
conservation purpose. It is observed that there is 5 per cent loss of forest cover in 20 years
(1989 -2009)109. The forest area is divided into five distinct categories based on different
mangrove associations:
 Deforested mangrove swamp – found mostly in the western and central parts of Sundarban;
 Dense mangrove forests – currently found only in the south – eastern part;
 Tall & dense mangroves – these are restricted to the eastern part of Sundarbans and are
comprised of Heritiera fomes;
 Brakish water mixed Heritiera sp. Forests – these are rare and largely confined to the north
–eastern part;
108
Census of India, 2011.
109
As indicated by the SAPCC Working Group Report on Sundarbans
 Palm swamps dominated by Phoenix paludosa – these have scattered distribution and are
found through out the Sundarban forest.
(a)
(b) Landuse
2000-2001
Figure 13.3: (a) Trends of population3 and (b) Land use distribution in Sundarbans area110
The Sundarban, in its eastern side, has an area of 2585 km2 demarcated for conservation of
Tiger, with a core zone of 1700 sq km known as the Sundarban National Park and is surrounded
by a buffer zone covering 885 km2 that houses the Sajnekhali Wild Life Sanctuary, and a clear
area within the forest is demarcated for preservation for gene pool. No human intervention is
allowed on this side of the Sundarbans (see Table 13.1).
An additional 1680 km2 in the western side of Sundarbans, has the Lothian Wild Life Sanctuary,
the Haliday Island Wild Life Sanctuary and a designated Reserved Forest. This area allows
limited human intervention for extracting non timber forest products.
Biodiversity: The Sundarban ecosystem is one of the most biologically protective and
taxonomically diverse ecosystems of the Indian Sub-continent. The Sundarban Mangrove forest,
the mangrove swamps, and backwaters of Sundarbans form a barrier to cyclones and tropical
storms originating mainly in the Bay of Bengal and to tidal surges, providing protection to a
110
Sundarban Affairs Deptt, Govt. of West Bengal., accessed from
www.sadepartmentwb.org/Distribution_of_Land.htm on 25th March 2012
Table 13.1: The Reserved area of Indian Sundarbans
Designated Areas Zoning Designation Area Remarks
(sq. Km.)
Sundarban Tiger Core Zone Sundarban National 1700 An area of 124.4

Reserve: 2585 sq. Park sq km preserved
km. as “ Primitive
Sajnekhali Wild Life 362 Area” for gene
[ Eastern side of Sanctuary pool preservation
Matla River] purpose.
Designated Reserve 523
Buffer Zone Forest
Reserve Forest of Lothian Wild Life 38

South 24-Pgs : 1680 Sanctuary
sq.km Limited human
Haliday Island Wild 6 intervention
[ Weastern side of Manipulated Life Sanctuary allowed.
Matla River] Zone
Designated Reserve 1579
Forest
large part of inhabited areas inland and to the coastal fringes. The mangrove forests, mangrove
swamps, and backwaters of Sundarbans form a productive and protective margin of coastal
Sundarbans. The mangrove are characterised by the presence of pneumatophores, salt glands,
lateral and tilt roots and crypto-viviparous germination. This unique ecosystem provides a wide
range of important environmental services and due to the nutritional inputs provided by the
mangroves to the adjacent coastal water, this region has become a unique nursery and breeding
ground of aquatic and marine fauna such as finfish, shellfish and marine fauna.
Mangrove vegetation: Mangrove vegetation of Indian Sunderban comprises an area of 2120

square km111. It is one of the 19 Sub-State Sites identified in the National Biodiversity Action
Plan (NBAP). According to the survey carried out by BSI in 2002, the Sundarban forest holds 61
of the 68 mangrove species found in India. These are unique vegetations vigorously growing
and surviving in swampy & marshy inter tidal areas even under submergence of sea water for
long hours. See Table 13.2 for the list of endemic mangrove species of Sundarbans.
Table 13.2: Endemic plant species of Sundarbans

Common Name Scientific Name Description
Sundari Tree Heritiera Fomes H. Fomes is a major timber-producing tree of sundarbans. Large
Sundarban trees with 2m girth were found earlier but have been
111
A K Raha, Indian Sunderban: An Overview, Report on Sunderban, Biosphere Reserve, West Bengal
Forest Department, 2004
heavily harvested. Now trees over 1 m in girth are no longer

common. Height of H Fomes ranges from 15 to 25 m and d.b.h. from
2.5 to 38 cm depending onsite quality. It is an evergreen tree, thrives
at 7.22 °C to 37.78 °C and heavy annual rainfall of 1600 mm to 5334
mm. In the Sunderbans, it is the climax species in newly formed
inlands with sweet, brackish, and saline water. It is dominant in the
slightly saline and moderately saline zone and thrives in a well
drained soil inundated by tidal water of a low degree of salinity
Mangrove apple Sonneratia Apetela It is a small to medium size columnar mangrove tree, which can
attain a height of about 20 m and a girth of about 2.5 m. The tree
occurs on newly accreted soil in moderately to strongly saline areas
and is considered as a pioneer species in ecological succession.
Sea Date/ Phoenix Paludosa paludosa (paludosa, Latin, swampy) or Mangrove Date Palm is a
Khadi Khajur species of flowering plant in the palm family. Clustering, to 5 m high,
usually forming dense thickets, the leaves are 2 to 3 m long and re-
curved.
Sundarban Mangrove Forests, Sajnekhali112
Several key biodiversity species have become extinct or are in the verge of becoming extinct in
this region. The current stress factors include Alteration in Habitats, environmental changes,
biotic pressure, over exploiatation of the natural resources in the region including that of
medicinal plants etc. The list of endangered species is given in Table 13.3.
Table 13.3: Endangered plants species of sundarbans

Name Current Stresses
Amoora Cucullata Alteration of habitat changes and environmental changes
112
Sourced from:
http://www.portal.gsi.gov.in/portal/page?_pageid=127,723772&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL&linkId=1213
Cynometra Iripa Environmental changes
Heritieria fomes Biotic pressure and environmental change
Intsia Bijuga Over exploitation
Kandelia Candel Change of Environment
Merope Angulata Habitat Change and environmental change
Rhizophora apiculata Exploitation due to medicinal properties
Srcolobus griffithi Over exploitation and habitat changes
Phoenix Paludosa It is a back mangrove species, and is therefore particularly

vulnerable to coastal development and sea-level rise
Faunal Species: More than 1692 faunal species are present in this ecosystem. These comprise of
faunal groups like – (i) invertebrates: Aquatic and inter – tidal invertebrates, Insects, Arachinds
(ii) Vertebrates: Fish, Reptiles and amphibians, Birds & mammals. A good number these species
are classified as special status under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act (1998) and are classified
as rare and endangered.
The most noted species of the wild life of the region are Royal Bengal Tiger, Spotted Deer, Wild
Boar and Estuarine Crocodiles. These are on the CITES list, or are classified as rare &
endangered species. The endangered list also includes River Terrapin, Ganges & Irawady
Dolphins and varieties of migrants & resident avifauna. One of the living fossils viz. Horse Shoe
Crab inhabits in this region. At least three species of marine turtle and several species of
cetaceans exist in this coastal habitat.
Figure 13.4: Typical fauna of of Sundarbans- Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthers Tigris), Estuarine Crocodile
(Crocodilus porosus) and Birds (Sea gulls)
Algae, Bacteria, Fungi, Plankton and Micro-Fauna: There are several species of these microbial
elements in the Sundarban estuary with the support of ocean current, water temperature, and
salinity, biotic & abiotic substrata in this ecosystem. These micro biological elements are
important in their contribution to high primary productivity and are crucial components of the
ecosystem. These also maintain the balance of food chain. However the populations and
distribution of Phytoplankton & Zooplankton are very sensitive to seasonal variations and on
the trends of fluctuations in environmental parameters.
Livelihood profile: As per the 2001 census, number of agriculture cultivators are 24.37% of the
total Sundarban population, with agricultural land less labourers comprising 36.35% of the
population. Household industries and artisans comprise of 4.86% of the population and the rest
practice miscellaneous livelihoods such as fishery, natural resource collectos, some
professionals and some provide various services. There is seasonal migration of substantial
population to the other parts of the country seeking employment.
Agriculture: As per government statistics, in 2009, the availaibility of agricultural land in the
Sundarbans was around 1691.246 sq km113. 61% of the area is in the low lying areas, the
medium & upland areas are 26% & 11% respectively of the total area available for cultivation.
The agricultural system of the region is centered on two main cultivating seasons. In the khariff
or monsoon season between June to September and aman paddy is planted and in the post
monsoon period in the months of November to December it is harvested. In addition, some high
value vegetables like ladies finger, ridge gourd, bitter gourd, beans, snake gourd, and water
melons etc are grown in uplands and AILs ( field bundhs). In the rabi season between November
to June paddy is cultivated in irrigated condition which extends only to 12% of the total
cultivated area. In this season pulse like khesari & moong and oil seeds like sesame, mustard
and sunflower and some vegetables are also grown.
Human Health: People of Sundarbans are primarily affected by water and vector borne
diseases while air borne diseases like Acute Respiratory Infections are a perpetual occurrence.
Chronic malnutrition has also been observed among the children under the age of 5 year &
women in Sundarban living in extreme poverty. The diarrhoeal prevalence peaks when
cyclones strike. The cyclones also bring exacerbate the occurrence of water-borne diseases (e.g.,
gastro-enteric diseases) as people have no choice but to consume contaminated water. In
addition, snake bites, accident injuries, skin related problems, and vector-borne diseases (such
as, malaria)7.
The public health facilities include 2 Sub-divisional, 9 Rural Hospitals (RH), 10 Block Primary
Health Centers (BPHCs), and 47 Primary Health Centers (PHCs). The Block level facility
(BPHC/RH), in addition to playing a role of a referral unit, acts as a hub of all primary health
care activities within a block.
The sub-centers are adequate in number if one goes by the usual standard (5000 population per
sub-centre), but the number of PHCs, are inadequate by the same standard (30,000 per PHC).
The inadequacy is more prominent in South Sundarbans especially in some blocks (Gosaba,
Canning I and II, Patharpratima, and Kakdwip)114. An inter regional disparity has been analysed
113
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/agri-biz/article2950858.ece uplorded on
March 1, 2012, based on the CSE report brought out by CSE; accessed on 25th March 2012
114
Barun Kamjilal, Papya Guha Majumdar, Moumita Mukherjee, Swadhin Mondal, Debjani Burman, Sneha
Singh and Arnab Mandal; 2010. Health care in the Sundarbans India- Challaenges and plan for a better future.
Accessed from http://www.futurehealthsystems.org/publications/health-care-in-the-sundarbans-india-
th
challenges-and-plan-for.html; 25 March 2012.
in the HUmna Development Report of West Bengal (2009)115, which clearly indicates the lower
level of infrastructure including patient care in the Island area with respect to mainland areas of
Sundarbans. See Table 13.4.
Table 13.4: A comparison of primary health care in Sundarban island blocks with respect to
other blocks8.
Access to Energy: The electricity supply from all sources (viz. Grid – Power, Renewable Energy
Sources, Solar Home Lighting Systems and Diesel Generators) in Sundarbans is estimated to
262.8 million units/ year. Around 3.5% of total supply is contributed by the renewable source of
energy. As of 2010, 1.20 lakh hhs have been electrified The details are shown below in Table
13.5. The per capita electricity consumption in Sundarbans is much lower compared to that of
India and West Bengal respectively, it is 58,4 KWh/ year as compared to 380.61 KWh/year in
West Bengal and 717.0 KWh/ year at India level. The increase in demand in 2020 is expected to
be 7.5 to 15 times that of the present demand.
Table 13.5: Status of Electrification of households in Sundarbans ( in lakhs)

Districts No. of HHs. No. of HH Electrified No. of BPL HHs
North 24 – Pgs. 2.04 0.53 0.87
South 24-Pgs. 4.90 0.67 3.36
Total for Sundarban 6.94 1.20 4.23
Power Department in collaboration with Sundarban Affairs Department has taken up

programme for extension of grid power to 121 non – electrified mouzas of Pathar Prtaima,
Gosaba, Mathurapur –II , & Kultali Blocks crossing the rivers through towers & rail poles. The
works for transporting grid power from Kakdwip to Sagar crossing Muriganaga River through
towers are almost complete. The project for extension of grid power to 100% house holds in
Sagar island ahs been sanctioned under The World Bank assisted Integrated Coastal Zone
Management Project ( ICZMP). Extension of grid power to the non-electrified mouzas of
Sundarbans have been taken up through RGGVY fund but the progress of work is considered to
be very slow.
Current Key Concerns of the Indian Sundarbans Region
115
Human Development Report – West Bengal 2009. Accessed from
th
wbplan.gov.in/HumanDev/DHDR/24%20pgsSouth/Chapter%2009.pdf, 25 March 2012
Recurrent Cyclones & storms: The cyclonic depressions in the Indian ocean, bringing in high
winds, heavy rainfall and strong tidal surge, occur between May to November (see Figure
13.5a). Though the number of depressions are the highest in the month of August, maximum
number of them develop into cyclonic storm in the month of October, and the number of severe
160 151
(a)
140 124
109 113
120
100 92
83
80 62 59
57
51
60 43
49
35 37 32 34
40 24 20
29
20
27
25
17
20 106 311 913 8
2 2 3 2 3
0
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Depression Cyclonic Storms Severe cyclonic storms
(b)
(c)
Figure 13.5: (a) Monthly disturbance of Cyclonic disturbances between 1891-2007 over the
Indian Ocean; (b) Cyclonic storm tracks in Bay of Bengal between 1891-2007; (c) Cyclonic land
falls between 1891-2006 in Bay of Bengal.
storms formed were 284 in number, out of which 94 intensified up to the stage of Severe
Cyclonic storms (33%) in
Severe Cyclonic storms (57%). The intensification of the systems is stronger during the epoch
II than the epoch I even though there is a decrease in the total number of cyclonic storms over
Bay of Bengal from epoch I to epoch II (see Figure 13.5).
Further examination of the data sets on the decadal scale showed that 35 cyclonic storms
formed inthe Bay of Bengal during the decade 1981-1990 out of which 22 (63%) intensified in
to Severe Cyclonic Storms and during the decade 2001-2010, 32 cyclonic storms formed in
the Bay of Bengal out of which only 11 (34%) intensified in to Severe Cyclonic Storms. This
general analysis points towards the fact that the cyclonic storm hitting the Sundarbans area
have increase in intensity between 1951 and 2010. The increase in intensity is attributed to
the increase in Sea Surface temperature (see Figure 13.6).
Figure 12.6: Trends of cyclonic disturbances in the

Bay of Bengal between 1891-20103.
cyclonic storms are the highest in the month of November116. The tracks of storms in the Bay of
Bengal region between 1891-2007, indicate a substantial number of them hitting the
Indian Sundarbans area1 (Figure 13.4b). Hatawar et al.117, have observed that about 44 cyclonic
disturbances have crossed the Sundarbans area between 1891 and 2006, of which 35 were
severe cyclonic storms (Figure 12.4c). In some cases when the cyclonic events having wind
force more than 100 km per hr they are synchronized with the high tides, the waves influenced
116
Recent and Current Activities of the RSMC New Delhi. 2009. Paper submitted in the sixth Tropical
CycloneRSMC/TSWCs, technical Coordination Meeting, Brisbane, Australia, 2-5th Nov 2009. WMO, TCM-V
/Doc. 3.2 (3) (19.X.2009), Item 3.2.
117
Hatawar et al., Challenges in Tropical cyclone forecasting, 2010. Accessed from:
www.nidm.gov.in/idmc2/PDF/Presentations/Cyclone/Pres8.pdf
by storm surge hit the river embankments causing breaches and flash flood due to sea water
ingress.
Increasing Intensity of Cyclones: An analysis in general of the cyclonic storms occurring in Bay
of Bengal by Setharaman, 2011118 for the period 1891-2010 that the total number of cyclonic
Recurrent breaching of the Embankment : Along the Sundarban Delta the tidal amplitude
ranges between 3.7 to 5.0m above mean sea level. The higher tidal amplitude occurs in
monsoon months mostly in August – September. Due to progressive sedimentation &
shallowing of channels, the height of tidal amplitude is become as high as 6m along the coast
line and further inland it increases to around 7m.
Surface waves in this coastal area are mainly due to wind action. Waves become destructive
during cyclonic storm. When the Cyclonic incidences coincide with tides, wave height rises over
5 m and above the mean sea level.
Due to heavy loads of siltation, water levels in many embanked creeks remain at least two
metres above the adjoining flood plains during high tides. The tidal waves often breach the
embankment and the severity of breaching and extent of damage increases when cyclones
strike. The storm surges during cyclones have taller wave height and as a result other than
breaching the embankment, they also ride over it and enter the plains flooding large areas,
creating water logging and making the soil more saline than its natural state. For example,
during Cyclone Aila in 2009, a 400 km stretch of embankment was breached and the waves
crossd over the height of the embankment at many other places and entered the flood plains.
The sea water got logged in the plains and more than two million people were marooned for
several days affecting not only agriculture but also drinking water supply. Most of the thatched
houses were damaged. The farmland became non-productive due to salt water incursion in the
soils.
Breaching of the Embankment in Sonakhali Sundarbans during Cyclone Aila119
118
K Seetharaman, 2011. Published in Extended Abstract form in the proceedings of the workshop on -
Climatology and intensification of Bay of Bengal Cyclonic storms; National Conference on Bay of Bengal
Tropical Cyclone Experiment (BOBTEX); New Delhi 1-2 Nov, 2011.. Published by Cyclone Warning Div., India
Meteorological Deptt., Mausam Bhawan, New Delhi.
Changing Water mass properties in the eastern and western sectors of the Sundarbans 120:
Studies carried out over a period of 27 yrs indicate changes in the properties of water in and
around Sundarbans, which is also one of the key drivers towards the changing biodiversity in
the area. A description of these changes are as follows:
Water Temperature: Between 1980 and 2007, the waters in the Sundarbans is gradually
warming up at an average rate of 0.5oC per decade, with warming being more in the western
parts of Sundarban region than in the eastern parts. The warming observed in Sundarban
waters is higher than the observed global sea surface temperature warming of 0.06 oC per
decade and the warming of the Indian ocean at the rate of of 0.2oC per decade. See Figure 13.7.
The warming of the sea in any case has implications on aquatic life, as the CO 2 escapes with
warming. However, rapid increase in sea surface temperature further compounds the effect,
especially in the Sundarbans area, where the impact is likely to be on the nutrient rich waters
affecting both the mangroves and the other acquatic fauna that thrives on this nutrient rich
waters such as fish.
Figure 13.7: Rising Surface Water Temperature along the Sundarbans coast
PH value of Water: Further, the water in the western sector of the Sundarbans shows a higher
PH with respect to the water in the Eastern side of the region. This indicates influx of fresh
water in the western river systems of Hoogly and Murigamnga flowing through the Sundarbans.
These rivers are a continnum of the Ganges and the the fresh water in these river systems is
119
Courtsy: Kaustav De, Downloaded from public website
https://plus.google.com/photos/103953505186456931066/albums/5343481724186861377?banner=pwa&gps
rc=pwrd1#photos/103953505186456931066/albums/5343481724186861377/5343482291007303378
120
Source: Mitra Abhijit Mita, Avijit Gangopadhy, Anumeha Deb, Andre K Schmidt, and Kakoli Banerjee. 2009.
Observed changes in Water Mass Properties In the Indian sundarbans (North western Bay of Bengal)
during1980-2007. Current Science, vol 97, no. 10, Novermber 25, 2009.
attributed to influx of fresh water in the ganges due to recession of the Gangotri glacier 121 from
which it originates.
Dissolved Oxygen: An analysis of the Dissolved oxygen in the two regions, indicate that in the
eastern sector the DO has increased by +0.3ppm/decade and in the eastern sector the DO has
decreased by -0.4ppm/decade. Increase in DO is attributed to fresh water influx in the western
rivers, and decrease in DO in the western rivers are due to increase in salinity due to siltation,
mixing with ocean water and possibly due to high evaporation rates as the surface air
temperature increasing. Similarly the transparency of the eastern region waters has increased
wrt the Western region.
In conclusion, the western region waters have an improved in water quality than its counter
part in the eastern region of Sundarbans and the trend continues to increase in both the sectors.
High dependence on natural resource based livelihoods : The primary occupation of 43.7 lkah
population in Sundarbans is mono crop agriculture that contributes to 77.55% of the local
economy directly or indirectly. Other than crop husbandry, people of Sundarban also have
fishing as a livelihood and collect NTFPs from forests.
Agriculture: According to the West Bengal government, in 2009, the agricultural area has
shrunk between 2002 and 2009 from 2149.615 sq km to 1691.246 sq km. The average paddy
yield is around 2,037 tons/ha in this area between 2009-10, and the cropping intensity is very
low, ranging between 1.5 to 2 tons/ha against the national average of 3.28 ha. The low intensity
of cropping is because (i) only mono cropping of rice is practiced in the Kharif season and in the
rabi season horticultural crops are grown;
(ii) also because, agriculture is mainly
rainfed, with only 12% of the cropped
area being irrigated through rainfed
ponds, tanks and canals; and (iii) because
of high levels of salinity of the soils due to
high tides, cyclones and storm surges, and
problems of water stagnation, even
beyond monsoon seasons at times. With
continuous increase in population,
agriculture production in the region is not
able to meet demand. Frequent damage One of the very few Rainwater harvested ponds in Sundarbans
to property and crop failure due to
cyclones and thunderstorms has
rendered a large population poverty ridden. As a result, high levels of migration to cities is
reported from here.
Non Timber Forest Products (NTFPs): is an essential components of the livelihood of the people
living within the Sundarbans mangrove area. A study carries out by Singh et al. 122, concludes
that about 79% of the livelihood earnings of the people from this region comes from NTFP. The
NTFPs include tannin bark from of most Sundarban species like Ceriops decandra, Ceriops
121
As per the reports of the Working Group on Himalayan Glaciers of the International Commission for Snow
and Ice (ICSI, 1999) and the World Wide Fund for Nature Report, Climate Change In Sundarbans, 2007
122
Anshu Singh, Prodyut Bhattacharya, Pradeep Vyas and Sarvashish Roy; 2010.Contribution of NTFPs in the
livelihood of Mangrove forest dwellers of Sundarbans, Journal of Human Ecology, 29 (3), 191-200.
myrobalans, Phoenix paludosa which yield around 30-42% tannin; Nypa fruticans (Golpata),
natural honey from Apis dorsata, cultured apiary honey and bee wax from Apis indica; fuel
wood and small poles and boles; fishes, prawn, crab, shrimps; and lime (manufactured from
jorgran, kastura and jhinuk). However, as many of the mangrove species are becoming
endangered they are falling under the perview of conservation and therefore their extraction is
also getting reduced, affecting the earnings of the people.
Fisheries: A number of individual, groups of commercial fishermen and MNCs are collecting
large-scale commercial catch from the coastal, estuarine and deep sea zone of Sundarbans
throughout the year. Fisheries is done through collection of prawn post larvae; acqua-culture in
coastal swamps; Intensive fresh water mono aquaculture of shrimp is practiced in some parts
especially at the estuarine mouth where salinity is lowered by fresh water discharge through
rivers ’paddy cum fish cultivation; and by commercial fishing in estuaries and deep sea zones.
Large scale mechanization, has boosted export-based fishing economy, but this is also
degrading the sensitive aqua-mangrove ecosystem of Sundarbans due to unsustainable
practices. Intensive prawn culture in paddy cum fish areas is endangering the indigenous
varieties of fish such as Vada, Khalisa, Mourala, Nados, Chanda, Khaira, etc. Further, frequent oil
leakage and regular washing of fishing vessels is causing water pollution near local sand heads
leading to lack of fish gathering in and around these areas 123.
Box 13.2: Possibility of extracting medicinal plants from the mangroves
Mangroves also have medicinal properties (Lakshmanan et al., 1984; Naskar et al., 2002). Table
below demonstrate some basic medicinal qualities of selected mangrove plants of Sundarban. If
properly cultivated and processed, these can fetch significant livelihood opportunities
Name of the Plant Common medicinal uses
Tamorix diocia Tonic, Skin diseases
Tamarix gallica Astringent in Dysentry
Thespia Lampu Seed powder in Bronchitis
Derris Indica Root as substitute for quinine
Cerops Tagal Asthama and snake bite
Acanthus ilicifolus Roots for blood pressure
Rhizophora apiculata Bark in Diarrhoea
Derris Trifoliata Antispasmodic and stimulant
Source:PDebajit Dutta, R N Chattopadhya and Shovik deb, 2011. Prospective livelihood opportunities from the
Mangroves of Sundarban, India. 2011. Research journal of Environmental Sciences 5 (6): 536-543. Accessed from
http://scialert.net/qredirect.php?doi=rjes.2011.536.543&linkid=pdf
123
Mahua Das, 2007. Impact of Commercial Coastal Fishing on the Environment of Sundarbans for
Sustainable Development; Asian Fisheries Science 22 (2009): 157-167; accessed from
www.asianfisheriessociety.org on 25th March 2012
Concerns of the Health Sector in Sundarbans
Inaccessibility of health services : The difficult terrain and isolation denies the people of
Sundarbans quick access not only to the nearby facilities but also to the facilities out side this
region. Such inaccessibility to health facilities have resulted in the obvious emergence of quacks
and RMPs.
Poor socio – economic indicators and environmental conditions resulting in perpetual

morbidity and malnutrition : Inadequate & contaminated water supply, lack of sanitation and
low level hygienic condition cause diarrhoeal diseases, dysentery, jaundice and worm infection.
Sundarbans is experiencing a rise in vector borne diseases particularly Malaria. Kalazar and
Encephalitis are also found in some blocks which are possibly a result of migration. There are
instances of other diseases like goiter.
Occupational health hazards : Majority of the people of Sundrabans are dependent on natural
based livelihoods and occupation which lead to different health hazards Women engaged in
shrimp larvae collection in the rivers suffer from dermatological diseases and gynecological
problems and urinary tract infections due to long time immersion in saline water. The farmers,
fishers and forest product collectors are under constant threat of animal attacks particularly
snake, crocodile, tiger, shark , etc.
Key Climate Change Concerns for Sundarbans
Sundarbans within the Indian region is a special area, as not only the ongoing climate change in
terms of temperature and increase and precipitation changes is likely to impact its physical and
man made systems, but the vulnerability of these systems is likely to be heightened due to the
added impacts of increase in cyclone strengths and sea level rise. Some of the key climate
change concerns are highlighted in the box below, and the situations for which adaptation will
be required including the adaptation strategies are discussed below.
Box 12.3: Observed and projected changes of Climate Change in Sundarbans in 2050s with respect to
base line (1960-2005)*
o The maximum temperature has decreased by -0.50oC between 1960-2005

o The minimum temperature has risen by 1oC within the same period
o No change in total annual rainfall
o Increase in heavy precipitation events
o Winters are becoming drier
o Frequency of cyclonic disturbances have decreased, but intensity has increased
o Annual average minimum temperature is projected to rise by 1.8 to 2.0oC in the coastal region of
WB
o The maximum temperature will also rise by 3.6-3.8oC between the same period
o Precipitation to rise in the monsoon period by 1.25 times, nominally decrease in Oct-Dec and will
not change in Jan-Feb
o The severity of the cyclones likely to increase with increase in sea surface temperature
*Refer to Chapter 4 of this document
Impacts on Mangroves Flora: Because of their location at the interface between land and sea,
mangroves are likely to be one of the first ecosystems to be affected by global changes. As the
Mangrove systems are very specialized, and may live close to their tolerance limits, they are
particularly sensitive to minor variation in hydrological or tidal regimes 124. Reduced runoff in
the eastern region of the Sundarbans would increasingly produce higher salinity and greater
seawater-sulfate concentrations. Both would decrease mangrove production125. The most
important effects, however, would come from rising sea levels, but responses will vary among
locations and will depend on the local rate of the rise and the availability of sediment to support
reestablishment of the mangroves126,127,128.
At continuous submergence in higher water depth, the plants would have significantly lower
rates of photosynthesis and growth, be shorter and narrower, have fewer branches and leaves,
and more acid-sulfide in their soils. Increased mangrove growth rates predicted for increasing
atmospheric CO2 may be offset by decreased growth resulting from changes in tidal regimes.
Impacts on Mangrove Fauna: The mangrove-associated fauna would be affected both directly
by climatic changes and indirectly by changes in the mangroves129. Species that are tolerant of
increasing temperatures (e.g., fish, gastropods, mangrove crabs and other crustaceans) may
adjust rapidly to the changes. In contrast, soft-bodied animals and bivalve mollusks would be
very sensitive to higher temperatures. Desiccation that would accompany increasing
temperatures would harm many marine species associated with mangroves 130. For mangrove-
dependent species, however, the most serious consequences of a changing climate would likely
be the loss of habitat as the mangrove forests declined.
Increase in incidences morbidity and mortality amongst the human population: The
increase might be due to water borne diseases as water is likely to become more unpotable.
Similarly increase in intensity of cyclones is likely to cause more injuries and deaths. Water
logged conditions also might increase incidences of dengue in urban centres of Sundarbans and
lead to increase in malaria vectors in the mangrove forests, thereby increasing incidences.
Impact on agriculture: Higher temperatures may lower yields which already are not enough
for the burgeoning population of the region. Also with more and more area getting inundated by
cyclones and higher storm surges, agriculture is likely to be affected in the flood plains of
Sundarban as the salinity in the soil rises (the recent example being the imoacts during cyclone
Aila).
124
Blasco, F., Saenger, P. and Janodet, E. (1996). Mangroves as indicators of coastal change. Catena 27 (3-4)
167-178.
125
Snedaker, S.C. (1995). Mangroves and climate change in the Florida and Caribbean region: Scenarios and
hypotheses. Hydrobiologia 295 (1-3), 43-49.
126
Pernetta, J. C. 1993. Mangrove Forests, Climate Change and Sea Level Rise: Hydrological Influences on
Community Structure and Survival, with Examples from the Indo-West Pacific. IUCN, Gland.
127
Parkinson, R.W., Delaune, R.D. and White, J.R. (1994). Holocene sea-level rise and the fate of mangrove
forests within the wider Caribbean region. Journal of Coastal Research 10, 1077-1086.
128
Woodroffe, C.D. (1999). Response of mangrove shorelines to sea level change. Tropics 8 (3), 159-177.
129
Sayed, O.H. (1995). Effects of the expected sea level rise on Avicennia marina L: A case
study in Qatar. Qatar University Science Journal 15 (1), 91-94.
130
Kjerfve, B. and Macintosh, D.J. (1997). Climage change impacts on mangrove ecosystems. In “ Mangrove
Ecosystem Studies in Latin America and Africa” (B. Kjerfve, L.D. Lacerda and S. Diop, eds), pp. 1-7. UNESCO,
Paris
Availability of potable water: With the eastern region of the Sundarbans receiving sweet
water from the ganges, and the western region becoming more and more saline, availability of
potable water in the long run is likely to be an issue for both the human settlements and wild
habitats in the western region of the Sundarbans. Further with increase in intensity of cyclones,
potable water stored in ponds and dighis are likely to be impacted even in the eastern region for
longer periods of time as volume water incursion will be higher as higher heights of storm surgs
enter inland covering larger areas.
Protection against Increase in intensity of cyclones: The cyclones are projected to be come
less in number with respect to their current frequency, but their severity will most likely
intensify, meaning that that wave heights will increase, making ingress of sea water deeper
inland. Therefore the entire Sundarban region and all its sectors are highly vulnerable to
climate change. Increase in intensity of cyclone will mean, devastation of human habitats, in
accessibility to potable water, loss in communication and transport. It will also lead to adverse
and may be irreversible damages to the flora and fauna, as the sea water ingresses inside the
creeks and inland, leading to high levels of salt ingression.
The Adaptation Action would include:
i. Undertaking a study to generate low , medium and high scenarios of impacts of climate
change on cyclones, for 2030s, 2050s, and 2080s to enable informed decision making
and implementation of measures towards adaptation. The projections will give the likely
return periods, trace the paths of cyclones and storm surges to track the likelihood of
land fall along the Sundarban coast, the maximum and the minimum heights of the sea
surges/waves during cyclones even when they ride over high tides, and an assessment
of the spatial extent to which the waves can carry salt water inland.
ii. Identify the level of tolerance of the various existing mangrove species to the different
levels of projected salinity and flood water depth.
iii. Identify, the type and density of the mangroves required to act successfully as the 1st
level of defense and accordingly, the mangrove plantation can be taken over.
iv. Identify the endangered species of fauna and building up strategies for conservation &
protection of faunal species
v. Construct/retrofit the embankment along the sea as well as along the rivers based on
the likely return periods and maximum heights of storm surges that can occur
vi. Based on the studies, scientifically raise the existing houses in vulnerable areas on stilts
based on the level of flood water height likely to ingress in the future. Also Identify safe
areas, and build/strengthen cyclone shelters for people as well as livestock.
vii. Early warning system, though in place, does not seem to be effective, as witnessed
during cyclone Aila in 2009. Therefore mobilise communities to take action rapidly and
cyclone proof themselves when early warnings are sounded by authorities vis a vis
moving people and livestock and their valuables to safer places.
viii.Strengthen communication – roads and telephony
ix. Identify the key sectors of livelihoods, building up strategies for sustainable use of
natural resources, construction of infrastructure to support sustainable livelihoods,
insurance coverage to the stakeholders of key livelihood sectors.
x. Improvement of general health care services ensuring coverage of cent percent

population, building up sources for sustainable & safe drinking water to every one.
xi. Rehabilitation strategies and package for post disaster renovation supported with social
services & alternative livelihoods
Total Cost: 12th plan- Rs. 1710.00 Cr; 13th Plan- Rs 1583.00 Cr
Protect agriculture productivity and livelihoods

o Height and quality of the embank plays an important role in protecting agriculture in the
region from additional salinity in soil due to projections of increasing intensity of
cyclones
o Introduce thermal resistant and salt tolerant rice cultivars
o Promote commercial level coconut plantations in saline areas
o Promote horticulture vegetable crops
o Provide access to markets through construction of roads
o Provide storage , marketing & processing facilities
o Provide crop insurance for cereals & commercial / plantation crops
Cost: Rs 100.00 Cr
Promote alternate livelihood opportunities: (i) Inland and marine fisheries can be further
promoted as an alternative livelihood for the population, in addition to cropping. A fishery policy
may be formulated centering around conservation vis a vis climate change impacts. Early
warning systems for fish catch availability in marine areas may be provided through modeling –
therefore modeling capacity to map fish catch on a real time basis needs to be developed.
Provide insurance to fishermen against calamities.
(ii) Promote animal husbandry & poultry/ duckery as alternative livelihood with market
support & insurance coverage.
Cost
12th Plan - Rs. 200.00 Cr
13th Plan – Rs. 200.00 cr
Enhance the accessibility to drinking water: This would mean supplying piped water to all
households. This can be done by drawing water from the western rivers in Sundarbans as they
are likely to have more fresh water in the near future. Also the potable water supply can be
augmented through more exploitation of ground water in the areas. Further, rain water
harvesting of water and storing it in overhead tanks at higher heights can be thought of as an
additional option to keep water clean and potable. Introduction of roof-top rain water
harvesting in community buildings be introduced.
Cost:
12th Plan-Cover all the gap areas in 12th Plan. Cost- Rs.1000.00 Cr
13th Plan- Fore maintenance in 13th plan. Cost-Rs 300.00 Cr
Improve accessibility to health facilities: Bridge the existing health infrastructure and health
service delivery gaps. Communise health service delivery. Develop telemedicine facilities.
Develop rapid transport for critically injured – by pressing in helicopter services. Develop
disaster preparedness to abate disease outbreaks and undertake regular drills.
Cost:
12th Plan: Rs 200.00 Cr (Identification of gaps, process of communisation, and development of
disaster risk reduction plans have to start in 12thplan)
13th Plan: Continue with the activities. Cost- Rs 100.00 Cr
Conserve biodiversity: The ongoing policies and actions of the Forest Department need to go
on with stricter pursuance of regulations. Further research may be launched to understand the
nature of impacts of climate change on Mangroves in terms of its floral and faunal biodiversity,
to plan for afforestation measures and conservation of fauna as per the dictates of the changing
climate scenarios, which can be implemented in the 13th plan.
Cost:
12th Plan: Rs 5.00 Cr – research component

13th Plan: Rs. 100.00 Cr - Implementation of afforestation and conservation of fauna activities
Total Cost: 12th plan- Rs. 1710.00 Cr; 13th Plan- Rs 1583.00 Cr
See Table 20, Annexure 1 for details of strategies, actions, time lines and budgets for
Sundarbans
WEST BENGAL ACTION PLAN ON CLIMATE CHANGE 227 227
Annexure 1
Table 1: Water Sector

Institutions Actions Cost in Crores Cost in Crores
responsible (12th Plan) (13th Plan)
A. Hill Region
1. Rain water harvesting IWRD i. Identification of natural aquifers in the region Rs.300.00 Cr Rs.300.00 Cr
along the hill slopes WRIDD ii. Identify the stretches of the hills where the
SWID trenches can be dug up to recharge the aquifers
Panchayt through gravity flow
dept. iii. Dig up of staggered trenches with hedge row
Agriculture iv. Undertake gully plugging
Deptt. v. Identify forest areas through which recharge of
Forest Deptt streams can happen
vi. Plants trees in these head of the water shed
2. Development of IWRD i. Identification of rivers and rivulets for transfer Rs.75.00 Cr Rs.150.00 Cr
reservoirs intercepting of their water to reservoirs Study and 25% to 50% to be
River Jaldakha, Manas, ii. Construction of reservoirs 50be completed completed in 13th
Sankosh and other in 12th plan plan
rivulets for transfer of
water from Surplus Basin
to Deficit Basin
3. Construct check dams WRIDD i. Examine the feasibility of construction of check Cover 5 km Cover 5km
for harnessing surface IWRD dams Rs. 250.00 Cr Rs. 500.00 Cr
water Panchyaet ii. Construct the check dams
4.Increase water storage PHE i. Identify the areas where drinking water still has 3.00 lkah 3.82 lakh
capacity at household/ WRIDD, to be fetched from more than 1/2 a km sq m sq m
community and village Panchayet ii. Identify the feasibility of constructing overhead Rs. 60.00 Cr Rs. 76.40 Cr
levels department or below ground storage tanks for rain water
& Local including Control unit, inspection pit, recharge
bodies chamber, gravity head recharge well (40x50x341

Blocks
5. Repairing, renovating WRIDD i. 20 ha CCA Rs. 90.00 Cr Rs. 60.00 Cr
and restoring existing
water bodies
6. Assessment of water IWRD 1. Scientific study Rs. 2.00 Cr Rs. 2.00 Cr
flow in the Teesta 2, Develop steps to improve inflow into the
Barrage in the climate barrage
change context and
appropriate actions to be
taken to improve water
inflow
B. Alluvial Zone
1. Increase the reservoir IWRD i. Removal of siltation in the reservoirs Rs.250.00 Cr Rs. 350.00 Cr
storage potential of . ii. blocking leakages in the reservoirs
existing major irrigation iii. Lining the sides of the canal system
projects
2. Recycling of waste NTPC i. Assessment of waste water that can be recycled To be absorbed To be absorbed
water to reuse water for SAIL ii. Establishing recycling units within the within the budgets
operations in the thermal budgets of NTPC of NTPC and SAIL
power plants and in steel and SAIL
plants
3. Limit extraction of WRIDD i. identification of deep aquifers i. Rs 1.00 Cr -
ground water for limiting SWID ii. Identification of recharge zones
arsenic contamination - IWRD ii. Rs. 1.00 Cr -
Formation region specific Agriculture iii. Creation of centralized ground water
centralised ground water Department extraction and recharge units iii. Rs. 50.00 Cr iii. Rs. 50.00 Cr
extraction units Panchayet (50% of the (rest 50% of the
Department iv. Creating distribution systems of this water units installed) units installed)
iv. Rs. 50.00 Cr iv. Rs. 50.00 Cr

(laying pipeline) (laying pipelines for
rest of the 50% )

4. Creation of surface i. Identifying feasible areas and required water 50 Units for 20 50 units for 20 ha
water based irrigation flow ha each each
schemes - lift irrigation ii Create facility for lifting water up and
etc) distribution to the fields Rs.50.00 Cr Rs.50.00 Cr
ii. Maintaining the same through public and
community partnerships
5. Encouraging rainwater i. Formation of groups to form water cooperatives Rs.25.00 Cr Rs.25.00 Cr
harvesting in ponds in that would look after ponds created in fallow (25 lakh (25 Lakh Facilities)
farmers fields - areas and will look after the upkeep of the water irrigation
community ponds for structure facilities )
small and medium ii. Educating the people on the appropriate
farmers can be structure that needs to be maintained
encouraged further
6. Enhance artificial WRIDD i. Build Percolation tanks i. 500 ha; Rs. i. 500 ha; Rs. 150.00
Recharge activities in iii. Contour Bandhs 150.00 Cr Cr
over exploited ground iv. Create subsurface dykes ii. 25 km; rs. ii. 25 km; rs. 25.00
water areas (critical v. RCC Ring wells 25.00 Cr Cr
Blocks) iii. 2km, 5 .00 Cr iii. 2km, 5 .00 Cr
iv. 2500 no.s,; iv. 2500 no.s,; 10.00
10.00 Cr Cr
7. Resuscitation of IWRD Activities to be further listed Rs.100 Cr Rs. 200 Cr
Derelict channel with
provision of sluice gates
for storing rain water
8. Abatement of floods i.Re-excavation of existing drainage channel Rs. 200.00 Cr Rs. 200.00 Cr
ii. Construction of new drainage channels
9. Surface water 15 schemes each in 12th and 13th plan Rs.200.00 Cr Rs.200.00 Cr
treatment plants
10. Schemes for removing 25 schemes to be completed within 12th and 13th Rs.37.50 Cr Rs. 37.50 Cr
arsenic and other heavy plan respectively
metals from water
C. Red and Laterite Zone

1. Undertake special Department ii. Initiate afforestation process through joint Rs. 10.00 Cr Rs. 10.00 Cr
programmes for planting of Forests forest management
forest trees or fruit Department iii. Department of Horticulture can have a joint
plantations as of initiative with people, after addition land is
appropriate to increase Horticulture identified for plantation which will be over and
the run off infiltration above the existing plantation areas
ratio in identified regions
2. Undertake extensive IWRD i. Identification of natural aquifers in the region Rs.300.00 Cr Rs.300.00 Cr
rain water harvesting in WRIDD ii. Identify the stretches of the hills where the
the undulating slopes of SWID trenches can be dug up to recharge the aquifers
the Red and Laterite zone Forest or rain water channels can be created to direct it
Department to recharge zone
iii. Digging up of staggered trenches with hedge
row
3. Encourage surface WRIDD i. Create rain water harvesting structures in the Rs.90.00 Cr Rs.60.00 Cr
water schemes to avoid form of ponds/dighis
ground water extraction 20 ha CCA
4. Create small reservoir IWRD i. Identify the Nullahs and rivulets across which 5 km length 5 km length
schemes such as check WRIDD check dams can be constructed Rs. 250.00 Cr Rs.500.00 Cr
dams, that intercept Panchayati ii. Construct the check dams
rivulets, Nullahs, with Raj
canal system in this
region
5. Complete the IWRD 5 km 5 km

Subarnarekha Barrage Rs. 400.00 Cr Rs. 800.00 Cr
6. Surface water 20 scemes to be completed, with 10 schems each Rs.100.00 Cr Rs.100.00 Cr
treatment Plant in 12th plan and 13th paln respectively
7. Schemes for removing 25 schemes to be completed in 12th and 13th plan Rs.37.50 Cr Rs.37.50 Cr
fluoride and other heavy respectively
metals

D. Saline Coastal Zone
1. Create more number of SAD Rain Water Harvesting Scheme with land Shaping Rs.310.00 Cr Rs.310.00 Cr
water harvesting Department
schemes for accessing
sweet water
2. Desalination project of PHED 50 schemes each to be completed in 12th and Rs.250.00 Cr Rs.250.00 Cr
river water in coastal 13th plan
areas
3. Surface water PHED 20 scemes to be completed within 12th and 13th Rs.100.00 Cr Rs.100.00 Cr
treatment plants pan
3. Reconstruct the IWRD i. through public and private partnership to Rs.50.00 Cr Rs.50.00 Cr
Sundarbans embankment SAD entrust the management of the embankment to
in vulnerable areas* Panchayet public as well.
Deptt. ii. Undertake stabilisation of embankment slope,
and iii. create drainage through the embankment
to drain out high tide water.
*the major funding is

from the central
government and the
World Bank
4. Construct sluices to IWRD i. Identify the channels Rs.100.00 Cr Rs.200.00 Cr
prevent the intrusion of ii. Fix the sluice gates
saline water in channels
where it does not exist
E. Scientific Assessments

1. Establish high IWRD i. Undertake study to understand the spatial Rs.100.00 Cr. -
resolution weather WRIDD resolution required to monitor rain fall and river
monitoring, river inflow SAD inflow data
monitoring, hydrograph IMD ii. install automatic weather monitoring including
monitoring, and early INCOIS rain gauge and water gauge stations at
warning system for appropriate spatial resolution within all 23 Basins
floods of West Bengal
iii. Install hydrograph stations at high spatial
resolution across the coast line
ii. Install doppler radars (atleast 6 for 6 regions)
for an overall coverage of the atmsopheric
parameters
iii. Create scientific capacities in the state to
undertake real time analysis and hence near and
long term forecasting of extreme rain fall and
onset of monsoon and
iv. Dissemination systems to make all farmers and
the entire population aware of the impending
events
2. Assess water IWRD Undertake modeling activity, assess demand of Rs.2.00 Cr -
availability by region, WRIDD water by sector using climate change projections
assess current demand of PHE and its impacts on water availability
water by sector and DIC
future demand by sector
by by factoring in Climate
change for short, medium
and long term time lines
3. Monitor quality of PHED, i. Underground water quality Rs. 1.00 Cr Rs. 1.00 Cr
water to understand the WRIDD ii. surface water quality
impacts of warming of iii. Upgradation of water quality labs as per CPCB Rs.2.00 Cr Rs. 3.00 cr
the atmosphere and for norms
providing remedies Rs. 5.00 Cr

4. Identify vulnerable WRIDD Rs.1.00 Cr Rs. 1.00 Cr
areas of ground water
contamination by point
sources of industrial,
municipal solid waste
landfills and agricultural
pollutants
5. R&D on contamination WRIDD Rs. 2.00 Cr -
Mitigation Devices
(Model Study)
7.Map water availability, IWRD Rs.2.00 Cr -
Minor surface water WRIDD
bodies, Aquifers in time
and space, and Water use
in conjunction with land
use and land
classification
F. Policy related strategies
1. Modernization of SWID, i. Undertake feasibility studies Rs. 50.00 Cr Rs. 50.00 Cr
Irrigation system using WRIDD, ii. Implement
Drip, Sprinklers systems Agriculture
Department
2.Introduce pricing PHE i. Feasibility studies Rs.1.00 Cr Rs.100.00 Cr
regulation for use of ii Implementation
piped water for domestic
use and drinking water
3. Undertake periodical IWRD i. One Survey in 12th plan Rs.10.00 Cr Rs.10.00 Cr
census of medium and ii. One survey in 13th Paln
minor irrigation projects
to check sustainability
and also to detect dis-
functionalities and

implement remedial
measures
4. Introduce variable IWRD i. Study on pricing structure keeping in view the Rs.2.00 Cr -
water tax for irrigation WRIDD potential of payment of the different farmer
purpose on both use of categories
underground water and
surface water sources in
the short term and the in
the long term metering of
water usage may be done
obtained from canals as
well as from centralised
underground sources
5. Extend compulsory SWID i. Design to be developed for different housing i+ii Rs.6.00 Cr
rain water harvesting Municipal types in different regions (@Rs.1.00 Cr. for
regulations for all houses Corporation ii. Create incentive schemes for the same 6 regions)
in cities and town in WB of different iii. Implement 25% of all towns in WB iii.Rs.100.00 Cr iii. Rs.100.00 Cr
towns and
cities
GRAND TOTAL Rs.4163.00 Cr Rs.5323.00 Cr
Table 2: Strategies, Actions, Time lines and Budgets- Agriculture Crops

Strategy Actions 12th plan 13th plan
1. Appropriate Crop i. Enhance ISOPOM i. ISOPOM: Rs.70.5 Cr i. ISOPOM: Rs 35.00

Diversification in the Cr
various agro-climatic ii. Undertake research on ii. Research: Rs.2.5 Cr
zones identifying the biodiversity of the 6 ii. Research: Rs. 3.0
agro-climatic zones iii. Extend new crop diversification based on Cr
biodiversity of the region to 50% of the

iii. Exploit the biodiversity of the districts in the 6 agro-climatic regions iii New Crop
region for crop diversification Rs.35.0 Cr diversification to
rest 50% of the
iv. Access to equipments: One each for 50% of districts in the 6
the 341 blocks in WB @ Rs1.10 Cr each agroclimatic zones
iv. Access to equipment for market total cost: 187.00 Cr Rs. 35.0 Cr
ready products (dal tharshers and
oil mills) v. Outreach for farmers through PPP Rs.6.0 Cr
for 6 zones
iv. Access to
v. Outreach to farmers through Total: Rs. 301.00 Cr equipments to rest
ATMA and PPP (capacity building of of the 50% of the
farmers, providing appropriate blocks
inputs to the farmers in terms of Rs. 200 Cr
purchase and production of seeds,
transfer of technology, chemicals,
equipments, resource conservation
technologies, farm implements, v. Outreach to
micronutrients) farmers through
PPP: Rs. 8.0 Cr for 6
zones
Total: Rs. 281.00 Cr

2. Introduction of new i. Enhanced R&D for developing i. Rs. 5.00 Cr i. Rs. 7.50 Cr
cultivars of various crops cultivars that are saline + flood
including that of rice, and tolerant for coastal zones
wheat ii Enhanced R&D for cultivars that ii. Rs. 2.5 Cr ii. Rs. 3.0 Cr
can endure water stress
iii Enhanced R&D for developing iii. Rs 2.5 Cr iii. Rs 3.0Cr
cultivars that can endure higher
temperatures
iv. Enhanced R&D for developing iv. Rs. 2.5 Cr iv. Rs. 3.0 Cr
flood resistant varieties
v. Introduction of cultivars that are v. Rs. 10.0 Cr. (in 50% of the area) v. Rs. 11.0 Cr. (in
saline tolerant and flood resistant 50% of the area)
on pilot basis in coastal zone on a
pilot basis vi. Rs. 10.0 Cr (in 50% of the area)
vi. Introduction of cultivars that can vi. Rs. 11.0 Cr (in
endure water stress in red and vii. Rs. 20.0 Cr (in 50% of the area) 50% of the area)
laterite zones on pilot basis
vii. Introduction of flood resistant viii. Rs. 20.00 Cr (in 50% of the area) vii. Rs. 22.0 Cr (in
varieties in the old alluvial and new 50% of the area)
alluvial zones ix. Rs. 30.0 Cr (in 50% of the area)
viii. Introduce cultivars that can viii. Rs. 22.00 Cr (in
endure higher temperatures in new x. 6.00 Cr 50% of the area)
and old alluvial zones
ix. Introduce short duration wheat Total: 98.5 Cr ix. Rs. 33.0 Cr (in
varieties in large scale in the old 50% of the area)
alluvial, hill zone and terai zone
x. PPP component of out reach x. 8.00 Cr
Total : 113.5 Cr
3. Encouraging i. Research on identification of i. Rs. 10 Cr (around Rs. 3 Cr each for i. Rs 11.0 Cr
indigenous cultivars indigenous cultivars of each region identification of cereals, pulses and oil seeds)
that are heat tolerant as well as can

tolerate water stress using less
nutrients but producing nutritive
grains including cereals, pulses and
oil seeds ii. in 50% of the blocks (Rs. 30 Cr @ Rs. 10 Cr ii. Rs. 33.0 Cr (taking
ii. Popularising hardy cereals, for each region mentioned) nto account price
pulses and oil seeds in Red and escalation by 10%)
Laterite zones as well as in old and Total: Rs.40.0 Cr
new alluvial zones, where over Total Rs. 44.0 Cr
extraction of ground water taking
place due to excess water demand
as compared to water availability
4. Upscale Resource i. Introduce "No tillage" in all agro- i. No tillage: Rs. 4.00 Cr @ Rs. 50 lakhs for i. No tillage: Rs. 4.00
Conservation climatic zones, especially in Hill and each zone and Rs. 1.00 Cr each for hill and Cr (@ Rs. 50 lakhs
Technologies (RCTs) terai zones where soil erosion is Terai zones for each zone and
high Rs. 1.00 Cr each for
ii. Introduce large scale water ii. @ Rs. 1.00 Cr for each of the 69 blocks in hill and Terai zones)
harvesting through ground water Red and laterite zone. Total cost: 69 Cr
recharge using runoff from hillocks ii. No cost
in red and Laterite zone
iii. Introduction of drip irrigation in iii. Assess the economic dimension of Drip
Red and Laterite zone irrigation in red and laterite zone for cereals,
pulses and oil seeds (Rs.75 Lakh @ Rs. 25 lakh
for each type) iii. Introduction of
drip iirigation @
iva. Upscaling SRI technology Rs. 18000 per ha Rs.18000 per ha in
iv. Promote water conservation for (source: 1271.745 ha net
rice production through http://www.hindu.com/seta/2005/04/28 sown area. Total
introduction aerobic rice, direct /stories/2005042801071900.htm) for 58.0 cost: Rs 2.29 Cr

seeded rice, and SRI technologies lakh ha on an average rice growing area in the
appropriate for each zone state. So total cost for covering 10% area: Rs
1044.00 Cr iva. Upscaling SRI
technology Rs.
ivb. Upscaling direct seeding for rice (Rs. 18000 per ha
10,000 per ha for 20% of 58.0 lakh ha under (source:
rice. Cost Rs. 116.00 Cr http://www.hindu.c
om/seta/2005/04/2
ivc. Upscaling aerobic rice in 20% of the rice 8
area @ Rs. 10,000lakh per ha. Total cost: Rs /stories/200504280
116.00 Cr 1071900.htm) for
58.0 lakh ha on an
v. Bed planting+direct seeding for wheat @ average rice
Rs.10,000 for 50% of wheat area of 3.15 lakh growing area in the
ha in WB. Total Cost Rs.157.00 Cr state. So total cost
for covering 10%
v. Introduce farm mechanisation for vi. Brown manuring: Broad casting of 20/ kg area: Rs 1044.00 Cr
planting technologies such as bed of sesbania per ha of rice @ Rs.165/kg
planting for rice and wheat and (current prices) in 10% of rice area. Cost: ivb. Upscaling direct
drum seeding for direct seeding in Rs.191.40Cr seeding for rice Rs.
alluvial zones 10,000 per ha for
vii. generating awareness on sequential 20% of 58.0 lakh ha
vi. Introduce brown manuring cropping under rice. Cost Rs.
Rs 6.00 Cr for 6 zones 116.00 Cr
vii. Introduce sequential cropping Total Cost: 1519.80 Cr ivc. Upscaling

of different crops, that can also aerobic rice in 20%
augment nutrient into the soil for of the rice area @

the next crop Rs. 10,000lakh per
ha. Total cost: Rs
116.00 Cr
v. Bed
planting+direct
seeding for wheat @
Rs.10,000 for 50%
of wheat area of
3.15 lakh ha in WB.
Total Cost Rs.157.00
Cr
vi. broad casting of

22 kg of sesbania
per ha of rice @
Rs.165/kg (current
prices) in 10% of
rice area. Cost:
Rs.210.54 Cr
vii. Generating
awareness on
sequential cropping
Rs 8 Cr for 6 zones
Total Cost: 1541.84

Cr
5. Effective soil nutrient i. Regular testing of soil and i. Soil testing @ Rs.60 per ha (based on talks i. Soil testing @
management issuance of annual soil health cards with expert) for 50% of cropped area in 97.52 Rs.70 per ha (based
to be made mandatory that identify lakh ha of gross cropped area. Total Cost Rs. on talks with expert)
the nutrient deficiencies of the soils 29.56 Cr for 50% of cropped
for all agro-climatic zones area in 97.52 lakh
iia. Identification of soil amendments required ha of gross cropped
by zone through research (Rs. 25 lakh for 1 area. Total Cost Rs.
ii. Government to provide support zone). Total Cost Rs. 2.50 Cr 34.13 Cr
for amendment to the soil such as
conventional fertiliser, other iib. Soil Amendment to be provided in all iia. Not required
nutrients as per deficiencies of the districts @ Rs 2.00 Cr each 19 district . Total
soil including micro nutrients Cost Rs 38.00 Cr iib. Soil Amendment
to continue to be
iii. Developing material for outreach and provided in all
Outreach through PPP. Cost Rs. 10 Cr for all districts @ Rs 2.20
iii. Provide advisory on green zones Cr each 19 district .
manuring such as enrichment of Total Cost Rs 41.00
the soil organically by growing a Total cost: 80.00 Cr Cr
variety of crops on the land and
then plough the green matter back Total cost: 75.93 Cr
into the soil
6. Promote organic ways i. Undertake research for integrated i. Rs. 25 lakhs each for exploring organic i. Continue research
for combating weeds, pest management using organic -pest repellants in these areas
insect, pests and diseases additives -pesticides Rs. 2.00 Cr
and nutrient management -insecticides,
-plant diseases (for diseases such as fungal, ii. Introduction on
bacterial, blast, leaf blights, leaf spots, mildew pilot basis each of
etc.) these pest and

-use of micro-organism enriched mixtures disease control
-advantages of intercropping/mixed cropping options developed
-advantages for using parasites during 12th plan
in 6 zones
Total Cost: 1.75 Cr
Rs. 6.00 Cr (@
Rs.1.00 Cr for each
pilot)
Total Cost: Rs 8.00

Cr
7. Create seed banks i. Currently seed banks in North and ia. Establishment of seed bank in Red and ia. mantenance
South Bengal are in operation. Laterite zone as per the Central scheme on grant: Rs 50 lakh
However, due to dry climate of the "Development and strengthening of per year = Rs. 2.5 Cr
red and Laterite zone, it is one of infrastructure facilities for production and
the best areas to develop a seed distribution of quality seeds"
bank for storage. Total cost of establishing a seed bank in red
and laterite zone: Rs. 5.00 Cr (adhoc only,
ii. Explore the concept of tentatively based on guidelines for the above
developing village level seed banks mentioned scheme )
iia. Training of farmers on varietal selection,

storage of quality seeds through PPP,
packaging, distribution & marketing. @ Rs.
15000 per village, in 50% of the villages in iia. Training to 50%

West Bengal. Total number of villages 37190. of the villages
Of this the government may bear 70% of the Rs. 21.00 Cr
cost and the rest from private partnerships.
Cost in 12th plan: Rs. 19.52 Cr
iib. Establishment of self help groups to

develop seed banks at village level
(procurement of seed from farmers, sorting
and seed treatment, storage in bins, packaging
and selling) seeds each of different varieties.
Initial funding @ Rs. 5,000 per village to 50% iib Funding for 50%
of the villages (based on estimates averaged of the villages
from ICRISAT and ADB funded project in few @Rs.5,000 per
villages in India) village for village
Total cost: 13.15 Cr seed bank
Cost: Rs 14.32
Total Cost: Rs 37.50 Cr
Total cost: 37.82 Cr
8. Enhance livelihoods of i. Identify the small and marginal Cost of Jute production per bigha: Rs.1780 Upscale to 10% of
small and marginal farmers who will be willing to Cost of rice production: Rs.4300 small and marginal
farmers by introducing undertake the same in a cluster Cost of mustard production Rs.1020 farmers in West
the concept of integrated mode Cost of 3 cows: Rs.15000 Bengal. Total land
Farming System by ii. Provide compensation to farmers Gobar gas plant: Rs 3700 holding of marginal
pooling in their fields for till the IFS is remunerating Manure: Rs.4000 (@ 5 tons/animal) farmers is 2758843
practicing each element of iii. Support to be provided to Cost of ducks: Rs.1000 ha.
the Integrated Farming farmers through public private Cost of digging pond (0.25 bigha) Rs. 2000
System partnership for a Jute-rice-wheat- Total unit cost: Rs.32,800/-. Cost: Rs. 904.00 Cr
fish-livestock system (cost taken from actual cost of a farmer in West

Bengal -ref: Farming System Approach to
Improve IUE, Employment and Income in
Eastern India, by B.C. BISWAS, published in
Fertiliser Marketing News, Vol. 41 (5), pp. 6-12,
amy 2010).
Total cost for 6 pilot projects: Rs.1.9 lakhs

9. Real time crop Satellite (Terra) constantly Cost of establishment: Rs. 10 Cr Maintenance and
monitoring and weather broadcast data running:
forecasting Anyone with the right equipment
and software can download
Free of charge Rs 5 Cr
Can store data for later download
Develop contingency plan
10. Setting up agriculture This centre will be created through Capital expenditure of equipment for 100 Running cost to be
BPOs in each of the public private partnership. It will agents (Rs. 75.42 lakh)+ IT/internet expenses borne by private
districts in West Bengal provide information to farmers (Rs. 199.00 Lakh)+ training and operating partner
through mobile telephony on expenses (1,06 Cr) + cost of running (by
ii. Climate of each day in terms of private party including rent of premises)
min/max temp, frost and dew
conditions, sunshine availability, Total Cost of setting up one BPO: Rs.2.20 Cr
humidity, rainfall (cost of running not included. Therefore total
iii. 7 day climate forecast Cost for setting up 19 BPOs in the state will be
iv. Advisory on onset of monsoon Rs. 41.8 Cr
v. Early warning about extreme
events such as cyclones can be (Cost based on Proposal for Setting up a BPO
provided direstly without calling up unit In Tribal Taluka of Chhota Udepur of

the BPO as messages to its clients District Vadodara For
vi. Advisory on cropping, water Doubling of the Income of the people of the
management, and nutrient Area In 11th Five year plan
management practices in the Submitted to:Government of Gujarat,
ensuing season Social Justice & Empowerment Department
vii. Information on availability of (Tribal Development Department)
cultivars and seeds Gandhinagar.
viii. Information on markets and December 2006. Submitted by:
prices Shroffs Foundation Trust
ix. Information of vendors/ village At & Post: Kalali, Tal. & Dist. Vadodara
banks on availability of seeds and Ph. 0265 - 2680061, 2680702
grains Fax-0265 - 2680370)
x. Information on farm
mechanisation tools availability etc
xi. any other
The scientific backstopping will be
provided by the agriculture
universities and research stations
and research institutes.
The climate information will be
provided by the agrometeorological
services of the IMD, NCMRWF, SAC
Information on early warning on
cyclones by ISRO
11. Extend crop i. Identify holdings not covered yet Premium being paid per ha now Rs. is Rs. 500 Cr (tentative
insurance to all small and (total no. of marginal land holdings Rs.563.87, of which 61.5% is paid by the state cost if the smae
marginal farmers i.e <10 ha) is 54.62 lakhs which which is equal to Rs.346.99 per ha. SO in order rates and same
corresponds to 2758843 ha. As per to cover the total marginal holdings the subsidies continue)
economic review 2009-10, area government has to spend Rs. 95 Cr per year.
covered under insurance was So for 5 years the Total Cost may come to
334.40 thousand ha in rabi 2008, Rs.475 Cr.
and 210.53 acres in kharif (However this price is only based on current
ii. Reach out to cover these holdings rates, and it may come down as the volume of
through subsidies in the premium coverage increases from present)
to be paid
iii. Cover all seasons
comprehensively instead of rabi
and kharif insurances separately
(summer, monsoon, autumn and
winter)
Total Rs. 2607.25 Cr Rs. 3511.05 Cr
Table 3: Strategies, Actions, Time lines and Budgets - Fisheries

1. Real time Monitoring of Deep sea cum research vessel i. Hiring of Monitoring –cum Research vessel i. Zero cost of
Fish shoals including equipments @Rs.3 crores per year constructing
for 5 years (Rs. 8.00 Cr) monitoring cell,
ii. Construction & Maintenance of 40 units of ii. Reduction in hiring
Monitoring Cell @Rs. 20 lakh (Rs.15.00 Cr) charges of Vessel @
iii. Manpower deployment –Remuneration Rs.2 crore (Approx)
and etc. for 5 years (Rs.1.35 Cr) per year for next 5
iv. Contingent &unforeseen expenditure for years
5 years ( Rs.0.65 Cr) ( Rs.10.00 Cr)

iii. increase in
Total: Rs 25.00 Cr remuneration @ 25%
per year to manpower
already deployed
(Rs.4.12 Cr)
iv. increase in
Contingent &
unforeseen
expenditure for 5 years
(Rs. 0.88 Cr)
Total Cost: Rs. 15.00 Cr
2. Real time Weather Data procurement and analysis Sharing of data with IMD: @ Rs. 5.0 lakh per i. Purchase &
Monitoring & Forecasting The cost of data procurement is only year per station for 22 stations. installation of Weather
considered here as the other Equipments at 22
component will be done in house stations @Rs. 3.0 lakh
with existing manpower in the Cost: Rs. 1.10 Cr (Rs.0.66 Cr)
department ii. Annual maintenance
charges @ 10% of
installation charges for
22 stations for 5 years
(Rs. 0.28 Cr)
iii. Manpower
deployment on
contractual basis @ Rs.
1000/- per day for 2
no. of person for 5
years for 22 stations
(Rs. 3.96 Cr)

iv. Contingent
&unforeseen
expenditure for 5 years
@ 5% of installation
charges for 22 stations
for 5 years (Rs. 0.16
Cr)
Total: Rs. 506.00 Cr

3. Mapping vulnerable Through remote sensing and GIS at i. Manpower deployment on contractual i. Manpower
fisher folk settlements gram Panchayat level basis @Rs.200/- per day per person for 5 deployment on
years for 18 districts (Rs. 0.65 Cr) contractual basis
ii. Purchase & installation of Computer with @Rs.200/- per day per
Internet facility for 18 districts @Rs.1.0 lakh person for 5 years for
per District (Rs.0.18 Cr) 18 districts (Rs. 0.65
iii. Purchase of one GIS software @Rs. 20 Cr)
lakh (Rs.0.20 CR) iii. Purchase of 4 GIS
iv. Contingency for 5 years for 18 stations software @Rs. 20 lakh
(0.17 Cr) (Rs.0.80 CR)
iv. Contingency for 5
Total Cost: Rs. 1.20 Cr years for 18 stations
(0.17 Cr)
Total Cost: Rs. 1.62 Cr

4. Forecasting and use of i. weather forecasting i. Manpower deployment on contractual In 13 plan period the
simulation Modeling ii. soil testing basis @ Rs. 1000/- per day for 2 persons for net cost may rise by 25
iii. Training on fisheries and fishing 5 years for 18 districts (Rs.0.65 Cr) % and approximate
practices to fisheries deptt. personnel ii. Training on fishery and fishing practices cost in today’s price for
iv. Data Generation (Rs. 0.70 Cr) the next five years may
vi. Bridging data gaps by for training iii. Contingency (Rs. 0.85 Cr) be Rs. 2.75 Crores+
fisheries deptt from grass root level iv. Data Generation- ocean and climate (Rs. Data generation (Rs 1.5
to District Level, by Engagement of 1.5 Cr) Cr)+ bridging data gap
qualified survey personnel (at least v. Bridging data gaps (0.90 Cr) (Rs 1.35 Cr)
Science graduate ), facilitating
exposure to modern equipments and Total Cost: Rs. 4.6 Cr Total Cost: Rs. 5.6 Cr
computer systems and by
undertaking Random field visit and
routine supervision by higher officers
5. Mangrove Plantation Specific programme for mangrove Plantation of Mangrove, seed at the cost of Plantation of
plantation along the canals, ponds Rs. 1/-, 80,000 plants per year for 5 years Mangrove, seed at the
and other water bodies in the Hoogli (Rs.0.04 Cr) cost of Rs. 1/-, 80,000
Matlah estuarine region for the plants per year for 5
conservation of the ecosystem bio- Management cost & contingent expenditure years (Rs.0.04 Cr)
diversity, enriching its nutrient @ Rs. 20,000/- per year for 5 Years (Rs 0.01
quality and quantity, provsing Cr) Management cost &
protection from storms and contingent expenditure
preventing soil erosion Total Cost : Rs. 0.05 Cr @ Rs. 20,000/- per
year for 5 Years (Rs
0.01 Cr)
Total Cost : Rs. 0.05 Cr

6. Promotion of canal i. Ecotourism coupled with canal i. @ cost Rs. 86 lakhs per location for 2 i. @ Rs. 1.00 Cr for 3
fisheries fishery based on natural biophysical locations (Rs. 1.72 Cr) locations (Rs. 3.00 Cr)
attributes & conservation of natural
resources will be initiated in large
Scale
ii. Separately Canal fishery will be ii. Canal fishery for 25 locations @ Rs. 5 ii. Canal fishery for 25
implemented atleast for 50 locations lakhs per unit (Rs. 1.25 Cr). locations @ Rs. 5 lakhs
per unit (Rs. 1.25 Cr).
Total: Rs 2.97 Cr Total: Rs. 4.25 Cr

7. Development of sewage i. Excavation/dredging as well as i. Excavation and dreding of 50% of the i. Excavation and
fed fisheries. management for the entire waste selected sites (Rs. 5.00 Cr) dreding of 50% of the
water resources for suitable selected sites (Rs. 5.00
aquaculture practices Cr)
ii. Technlogy upgradation for ii. Technology ugradation of 50% of the sites ii. Technology
managing sewage waste water selected (Rs. 2.5 Cr) ugradation of 50% of
fisheries the sites selected (Rs.
Total CostL Rs. 7.50 Cr 2.5 Cr)
Total CostL Rs. 7.50 Cr

8.Protection and Protection of seasonal and perennial i. Excavation of 75% of the area of water i. Excavation of 25% of
development of water water bodies (ponds and lakes). bodies envisaged to be excavated @ 1 Lakh the area of water
bodies About 500 ha to be brought in under per ha bodies envisaged to be
this scheme excavated @ 1.10 Lakh
Total Cost : Rs 3.75 Cr per ha
Rs. 0.83 Cr
9.Providing life saving i. Procuring 1070 life saving gears i. 100% procurement @ Rs.400 per life Replacement of 50%
gears and equipments covering 10,000 fisheries saving gear gears which may
become damaged
ii. Procuring GPS Tracking systems ii. 50% of the boats installed with GPS procurement @ Rs.500
for 17000 boats will be installed to per equipment
approx 17,000 nos of boats with an Total cost: Rs. 0.43 Cr
unit cost of Rs. 30,000/- by the year Total cost: Rs. 0.27 Cr
2020
10. Promotion of solar i. About 5000 nos of solar lights to be i. 75% of 5000 coope-ratives and fishery i. 25% of 5000
light installed in co-operative societies and projects covered with a unit cost of Rs 0.5 coope-ratives and
other fisheries projects and lakh per unit (Rs 18.75 Cr) fishery projects
covered with a unit
ii. another 10,000 nos of solar lights ii. 50% of 10,000 villages covered @ Rs 0.5 cost of Rs 0.5 lakh per
to be installed for model fishermen’s lakh per village (Rs. 25.0 Cr) unit (Rs 6.25 Cr)
villages with a
Total cost: Rs 44.25 Cr ii. 50% of
10,000 villages covered
@ Rs 0.5 lakh per
village (Rs. 25.0 Cr)
Total cost: Rs 31.25 Cr

11. Block level laboratory The laboratory cum extension centres Set up laboratory cum extension centres for . Set up laboratory cum
cum training centre for will: 50% of the remaining 166 centres extension centres for
fishery extension officers i. act as the single window service envisioned to be set up @ unit cost of Rs 3.6 50% of the remaining
provider for all aquaculture and Lkh per unit 166 centres envisioned
allied fields. to be set up @ unit cost
ii. Undertake disaster monitoring and of Rs 4.0 Lakh per unit
provide alerts
Envisioned to set up 341 such centres Total Cost: Rs. 2.98 Cr

of which 75 have been have already
been established and 100 more units Total cost: Rs 3.32 Cr
have been sanctioned in 11th plan
through RKVY
12. Research i. Research on breeding endangered i. Rs 0.25 Cr i. Rs 0.25 Cr
species
ii. Research on fish virology and ii. 0.20 Cr ii. 0.20 Cr
effects of pesticides and other
pollutants
iii. Survey of Migration route, iii. 0.20 Cr iii. 0.20 Cr

biomorphological study and stock
assessment of Hilsa & other species
iv Research on Increasing iv. Rs 0.25 Cr iv. Rs 0.25 Cr
Productivity & Brood Stock
Management in Departmental Farms
v. Research on developing species v. Rs 0.15 Cr v. Rs 0.15 Cr
specific feed formulation for native
threatened/endangered fish species
through gut content analysis of the
target species
vi. Research on value added fish vi. Rs 0.25 Cr vi. Rs 0.25 Cr
products
vii. Studies to asses the impact of vii. Rs 0.25 Cr vii. Rs 0.25 Cr
climate change on marine and coastal
fish production in West Bengal &
options for adaptive measures
viii. Mass culture of different viii. 0.15 Cr viii. 0.15 Cr
indigenous algal species on
preparation of algal powder for ready
to use fish feed & human Total: Rs 1.70 Cr Total : Rs 1.70 Cr
supplementary feed
Table 4: Strategies, Actions, Timelines, and Budgets - Horticulture

Protection from heat in allIn the short run, provide over head
zones below hill and terai shade to fruit trees and construct
zones greenhouses for vegetables,
wherever the temperatures are
exceeding the tolerance level of
plants
Undertake Research to help i. Develop fruit and vegetable
horticulture produce adapt varieties that can adapt to excess
to cliamte change salinity, can tolerate heat stress,
and water stress.
ii. Develop vegetable varieties that

are fortified with nutrients that are
absent in the soils they are grown.
iii. Develop short rotation varieties

of vegetables to adjust to the
increasing winter temperatures
Popularization of indigenous i. Undertake mapping of existing
varieties: traditional varieties fruits,
vegetables, nuts, medicinal and
aromatic plants grown in different
regions having high resilience to
the changing climate
ii. Popularise these varieties

through extension services using
the PPP mode
Create seed banks of these

varieties
Crop diversification Continue and intensify crop
diversification programmes to
include more crops which have
wider adaptability.
Improve floriculture Climate change will definitely
programmes impact production of flowers.
Promotion of protected cultivation
of high value commercial flowers
should be focussed . Provide
support for greenhouses.
Production of off-season i. Exploit the productivity potential
vegetables: of higher altitudes where the the
temperatures are likely to remain
conducive to the growth of some
vegetables, fruits, medicinal plants
and flowers
ii. Improve access to markets in
these regions for improvement of
rural economy
Integrated Pest Management Steps to be taken to replace
(IPM) chemical control of diseases and
pests by bio-pesticides, bio-control
agents and other organic methods.
Existing programmes need to be

intensified to expedite the process
of organic conversion and
New programmes in new areas to

be launched.
Water management system: Undertake water management
practices to use efficiently water
and provide critical moisture for
crop health.
i. Ongoing programmes such as

drip irrigation, construction of rain
water harvesting structures,
community ponds are to be
strengthened to increase
productivity with limited water
and simultaneously conserving
rapidly diminishing water
resources.
ii. Through efficient system of

water management, it is targeted
to utilise fallow land after paddy
crop for cultivation of vegetables,
potato and other horticultural
crops during Rabi season
Reducing weather related i. Establish weather stations at
risks: high resolution spatial scales for
weather data collection at village
level and
ii. Sensitise the farming community
on weather related risks.

iii. Advisory to farmers to make
critical farming decisions for
efficient crop management
practices.
Enhance infrastructure for Enhance infrastructure for storage
ensuring livelihoods and transport to markets of
perishable horticulture products.
Monitoring impacts of Information system within the
climate change: department needs to be
strengthened with focus on
collection of baseline data and a
system to measure changes
periodically with climate change
impacts
Table 5: Strategies, Actions, Time lines and Budgets - Livestock and livestock products
1. Encourage breeding of i. Assistance to small and marginal farmers to

small ruminants for livelihood buy Bengal Goat , Garole Sheep, Ghungru Pig/
security. Improved breed and Broiler chicken
ii. Assist in establishing a small farm within
1ha (very small farmers)
iii. Undertake Male exchange programme of
Black Bengal goat to arrest inbreeding
depression
iv. Undertake research to genetically upgrade
Bengal goat, sheep, ghugroo, and pigs
2. Strengthen disease i. Develop disease forecasting systems

investigation system ii. Establish disease surveillance system
iii. Undertake research studies on
a. the causes of diseases related to climate
and
b. the nature of emerging diseases due to
emergence of new pests and vectors and
c. developing control measures by involving
livestock research institutions.
3. Preventive health measures i. Prepare long term strategies where by
100% population of the livestock get
regularly vaccinated (large and small
ruminants)
ii. Set up Animal health camps to make people
aware of adopting different control measures.
4. Improved cattle sheds for i. Support farmers to augment their cattle
alleviating heat stress in sheds vis a vis Water sprinklers to enable
livestock: them to have evaporative cooling and
increase the air circulation in sheds so that
cool air is retained, undertake evaporative
cooling;
ii. Create special community ponds to allow
them to wallow in the ponds
5. Feed and fodder To combat fodder shortage fodder
development development needs to
i. have an additional impetus from the
government by promoting mixed crop
system, growing fodder on waste land, agro
forestry etc.
ii. Supporting farmer centered fodder banks.

iii. Undertake mineral mapping in different
regions to assess mineral status and
accordingly supply specific mineral mixture
to farmers for growing fodder.
6. Dairy development i. For enhancing the milk productivity even
with increase in temperatures, extensive
Artificial Insemination of the indigenous
stock of the State has to be undertaken
.
7. Capacity building of farmers Strengthen Extension to provide advisory on
for effective adaptation to Adaptation practices vis a vis
climate change i. right shelter for animals to protect them for
heat stress,
ii. right grazing practices that would enable
the animals to be protected from heat,
iii. the practices for identifying disease and
mitigating them
iii. creating feed mixes with proper nutrients
for enhancing mild productivity, etc.
8. Risk management: Coverage of agriculture insurance may be
extended to animal husbandry as well,
especially for small and marginal farmers.
i. Feasibility of the same needs to be studied
before it can be launched. Other forms of risk
management for farmers can be explored.
ii. Extend coverage to at least 5% of the small
and marginal farmers
Table 6: Strategies and actions for the forestry sector

Strategies Actions Agencies 12th Plan 13th Plan
responsible
1. Spring recharge and 1. Training of forest officials towards DF
enhancing ground water management of water sheds in the forests in Rs. 150.00 Cr Rs.170.00 Cr
recharge at areas within the the context of climate change
forests that are vulnerable to
CC 2. Identification and mapping of CC
vulnerable spring sources, water sheds and
Aim: To water secure Sikkim mountain top lakes in drought prone areas of
south and western sikkim.
 Integrating and climate
proofing the works of the 3. Preparing spring specific project plan
FEWMD, CAT, IWMP, and reports for implementation incorporating
that undertaken in site specific techniques needed for water
MGNREGA recharge, and water shed management
4. Implementation of projects
2. Enhancing quality of i. Regulated grazing, invasive species FD Rs. 600.00 Cr Rs.600.00 Cr
moderately dense forest, open eradication, management of insects and other
forests and degraded forests pathogens
ia Managing invasive alien species:
Aim: (i) To improve the health - Launch study to collate information on
of the forests; (ii) To improve problem species
ecosystem services and (iii) ib.Strengthen quarantine at state borders
Enhance C sequestration including that of soil, water, seeds,
potential of forests tubors, and bulbs etc
ic. Strengthen mechansim of removal of
invasive species through innovative
outreach approaches
id. Control through human use and as

fertliser, food for livestock, fish, and
poultry

responsible
ii Adoption of short rotation species ,
iii actions towards reduction in forest

fragmentation by conserving contiguous
forest patches,
iv eco restoration of degraded open forests,

and
v. Restoration of grass land
vi. Restoration of Scrublands that are highly

degraded forest/non-forest areas with scrub
vegetation recording less than 10% forest
density.
vii. Promote native species -including sea

buck thorn to improve soil moisture.
.
viii. Disease management practices to be put
in place
ix. Programme on Germ plasm conservation

to be initiated to conserve native species
x. Scope of planting trees in notified forest

patches which are threatened by expanding
urban/industrial development
xi. Open spaces/green spaces like

parks/wood lots set up on municipal land

responsible
xii Diffused planting such as on avenues and

in households and Institutional lands,
especially lands belonging to or allotted to
business/industrial houses and educational
institutions with trees that also support
wealth of flora and fauna
xiii Strengthening of Sustainable forest

management cell (SFM) for continued
monitoring of invasive species
3. Linking Protected Areas i. Connecting fragmented forests with FD Rs.600.00 Cr Rs. 600.00 Cr
‘corridors’ to assist species migration.
Aim: To secure corridors for
species migration to adapt to ii. Institute plans to mange and maintain the
climate change corridors by local stakeholders.
iii. Plans for rapid agency responses towards

crop-raiding, man-animal conflict, crop-
insurance and hassle-free compensation for
displacement if any.
iv. Special studies to understand the

feasibility of establishing such corridors and
their effectiveness vis a vis natural dispersion
and assisted migration in the context of
climate change.
4. Mitigating impacts of land i. Installation of early warning systems and FD Rs. 200.00 Cr Rs. 200.00 Cr
slides, storm surges and fast installation of hardware; real time SDMA
river run off monitoring (unmanned) with automatic data

responsible
transmission
ii. State database on landslide prone areas

and intensity of landslides to assess the risk
of landslides
iii. Implementation of Hazard Zonation Plan.
iv. Reforestation of catchment areas and

slope stabilization of landslide and Flash
flood prone areas.
v. Afforestation of degraded mangroves along

the coast
vi. Awareness generation on disaster

preparedness Fires
5. Enhanced mitigation of i. Forest fire prevention and management FD Rs. 100.00 Cr Rs. 100.00 Cr
forest fires
i.i Early detection and management
extended to higher altitudes, including
community participation in management of
fires
i.ii Planting species in forests, immediately

after the area is burnt with trees generated in
the nurseries. Therefore nurseries have to be
set up of Sal, Oak, and Conifer with adequate
saplings available for future requirements
i.iii undertake research to identify forest tree


responsible
species that would adapt itself at different
altitudes.
6. Preventing man animal i. Mobilizing Community initiatives FD Rs.100.00 Cr Rs.100.00 Cr

Conflict to promote
sustainable forests for the wild ii. Identification of conflict areas
life to thrive within the limits
of forests iii. Capacity building, strengthening
communication etc, sensitization of policy
makers etc.
iv. Population estimation of key species,
v. Study on agriculture practices,
vi. Phenological studies of wild edibles to

enhance productivity of Wild indigenous
Food /Fruit / Fodder /Fibre species inside
Forest.
vii. Promotion of Thorny Live-Hedge Fencing

with indigenous species to minimize
pollution, erosion; enrich soil fertility; attract
pollinators; provide food, fodder, fuel, fibre;

responsible
7. Understanding long term i Monitoring the health of the forests and its DF Rs.200.00 Cr Rs.200.00 Cr
impacts of climate change on biodiversity Universities
forests and monitor health of
forests and its C sequestration - tree crown, tree growth, canopy structure
potential etc.
- ground vegetation, soil, forest floor
- woody debris
8. Fast penetration of Rapid assessment and Identification of high FD Rs300.00 Cr Rs.300.00 Cr

renewable energy technologies fuel wood villages in 3 agro climatic regions,
to prevent forests from getting namely, hill region, red and lateritre region, Department of
degraded due to over renewable
and saline coastal region to identify
extraction of fuel wood and energy
biomass for fodder and fire as opportunities of renewable energy
the climate warms technology interventions

responsible
9. Protecting and enhancing i. Assessment of current livelihood FD Rs.200.00 Cr Rs. 200.00 Cr
Livelihoods dependent on opportunities
forests
ii. identification of new opportunities
Aim: Enhance forest-based
biomass production in the iii Mainstreaming climate concerns in the
form of food, fuelwood, functioning of of FPC, SHGs etc.
grass/fodder, timber, bamboo,
cane and other NTFPs. The
improved ecosystem services
like water flows, biodiversity
and carbon pools would Promote community-based eco tourism Rs. 100.00 Cr Rs. 100.00 Cr
further provide opportunity enterprises especially with inclusion of
for augmenting incomes margenalised section
Promotion of diversification of eco-tourism

related livelihoods - Souvenir making
(handicraft) as a livelihood option
Promote green Solid waste management

strategies
- Establish policy on extended producers

responsibility for private firms,
industries to encourage buy back policy
of non-biodegradable waste

responsible
Promote Agroforestry FD Rs. 100.00 Cr Rs. 100.00 Cr
- Promote growing of Medicinal plants in the

fringes of forests
- Planting Agro-forestry species on fringes

for Soil-binding and for increasing Soil
Fertility
- Promote other Cash Crops in Forest Fringe

Area (Research)
Grand Total Rs.2650.00 Cr Rs.2670.00 Cr
Table 7: Strategies, Actions, time lines and budgets for the health sector
Current Institutions Actions in the 12th Approximate Remarks
programmes/ involved Plan
projects Cost at today’s
addressing these price
concerns
A. Vector borne diseases including National Vector Health A1.Increased Rs 6 Crores Increase in incidence
managing out breaks Borne Disease Department surveillance expected in 3 districts
Control (Darjeeling, Malda,
Programme A2.Initiation of Murshidabad) @ Rs 2 crore
prompt complete per district
treatment

concerns
A3.Supply of LLIN to
at risk populations
B. Water borne diseases including State Programme Health A1 Increased Rs 30 crores @ Rs 5 crores per year for the
managing outbreaks Department surveillance of water districts and Rs 1 Crore per
and Kolkata source contamination year for Kolkata
Municipal and water borne
Corporation diseases
A2.Initiation of
prompt treatment
C. Extreme Events including State Programme through the A1 Increased Rs 60 crores @ Rs 3 crores per district and
Physical and psychological Hospitals Surveillance of 6 crores for flood prone areas
impacts extreme events of Sundarbans
A2 Setting up of
Intensive therapy
units in hospitals of
affected areas
D. Food security and malnutrition State Programme In A1 Increased Rs 40 crores @ Rs 2 crores per district and
collaboratio surveillance for 4 crores for Kolkata
n with Social evidence malnutrition

concerns
Welfare including
Department micronutrient
and Kolkata deficiencies
Municipal
Corporation A2 Setting up of
nutrition clinics in
affected districts
A3 Scaling up of
positive deviance
programme
E. Disaster preparedness State Programme through the A1 Increased Rs 30 crores @ Rs 5 crores per year for the
(cyclones, sea level rise, extreme Public surveillance districts and Rs 1 Crore per
precipitation leading to flooding Health year for flood prone areas of
Branch and A2 Improving Sundarbans
Hospitals communication
network
A3 Retrofit vulnerable
infrastructure
F CC and increase in air pollution State Programme through the A1 Increased Included with B
Public Surveillance of Above
Health Respiratory Tract
Branch and

concerns
Hospitals Illnesses
and Kolkata
Municipal A2 Setting up of
Corporation Intensive therapy units
in hospitals of affected
area
G research on CC and Health State Programme In A1 Operational Rs 10 crores

collaboratio research on various
n with issues
Universities
and other
research
institutes
H .Capacity building State Programme State Health A1Identification of Rs 60 crores @ Rs 3 crores per district and
Training training needs 6 crores for Kolkata
Institutes
A2 Preparation of
modules
A3 Training of
trainers
A4 Cascading
trainings up to field

concerns
level staff
I. Introducing mobile clinic for State programme i. set up 6-7 mobile Rs. 12 Cr Rs. 6 Cr for maintenance of
flood prone areas as the boat units for flood units and staff
dispensaries also get flooded prone areas Rs. 5 Cr
during that time and helicopter Rs 2.5 Crore for setting up of
medical services for landslide ii. hiring of one the units
affected people in hilly areas helicopter for rescue
and first aid Rs. 2.5 Cr for maintenance of
Rs. 5 Cr unit
iii. Enhance the

orthopedic
component of the
three subdivision
hospitals in the hill
region
J. Inclusive policies State Programme A1 Identification of Rs 20 crores @ Rs 1 crore per district and
vulnerable groups and 2 crores for Kolkata
their specific
problems
A2 Capacity building

concerns
of the community
A3 Addressing the
specific needs
identified
Note: The details of the health care centres that are proposed to be developed are:
1. Setting up/improvement of intensive care units:

Purulia, DH, Raghunathpur SDH, Suri DH, Bankura Sammelani Medical College Hospital, Bolpur SDH, Rampurhat SDH, Nadi DH, Medinipur DH,
Kharagpur SDH, Raiganj DH
2. Retrofitting and enhancing facilities at institutions for adaptation to floods and other natural calamities:
Diamond Harbour SDH, Kakdwip SDH, Sandeshkhali RH, Haora RH, Gosaba RH, Minakhan RH, Sagar (Rudranagar), RH, Madhab Nagar RH, Malda DH
3. Setting up of orthopaedic units:
District Hospital Darjeeling, Kurseong SDH, Kalimpong SDH
4. Setting up and running microbiology and entomology surveillance labs"
Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling, Malda, Uttar Dinajpur, Dakshin Dinajpur, Nadia, Murshidabad, Birbhum, Purulia, Purba Midnapore, Howrah,
Hooghly, N 24 Parganas, S 24 Parganas, Infectious disease Hospital Kolkata
5. Setting up of mobile boat units:
Canning, Daimond Harbour, Kakdwip, Baruipur, Contai, Basirhat
Table 8: Action plan for electricity sector - Adaptation

Strategies Fund Institutions to Actions in 12th plan Approx. Actions in 13th plan Approx. cost in
available be involved cost in today’s price
today’s
price
A. Unlocking the market for Energy Efficiency
Developing Depends WBERC, BEE, Energy audits and development of Review of action and
the on State SDA for Energy Specific Energy Consumption norm for outcome. Improved goal
ecosystem contributio Conservation, designated Industries setting.
for Perform- n - GoI will WBPCB
Achieve- match
Trade amount CII, ASSOCHAM, Target setting for designated industries
FICII, Industry through national/international
Associations, benchmarks and consultation
WB Federation
of Commerce
and Industry
IFCI, REC, Development of Monitoring and

NABARD, Verification Protocol
IREDA, PFC
Empanelment of Energy auditors and

Electricity Services Companies (ESCO)
for baseline measurements
Financial Enunciate methodology for Perform-

Institutions Achieve-Trade and test-run for limited
period
today’s
price
Award Energy-saving certificates
Create platform for trading in ESCerts,

accounting and depository protocols
Leveraging Engage with bilateral and multi-lateral

International fund (like the DFID Innovation Fund)
Financial managers to engage and prepare project
Instruments reports for funding
for
promotion of
energy
efficiency
Leverage Prioritize designated end-use sectors -

CDM for Household energy, Municipal DSM,
designated designated industry clusters
sectors
Plan of Action after baseline studies,
energy demand growth studies and
sample energy savings potential studies
today’s
price
Enable Public sector leadership with

adequate financing and aggregate
projects for critical mass.
Identify CDM potential in various

sectors, pilot initiatives with adequate
MVP to build state CDM roadmap with
target
Create Create demand for energy services

Energy through state-funded energy retrofit
Efficiency projects in the public sector
Markets
Develop guidelines for ESCOs and
accredit them through ICRA/CRISIL or
similar organizations
Support institutions in implementing

curriculum and preparing students for
national accreditation exams
today’s
price
Incentives to Policy guidance to state PSU to take up

State energy efficiency in their facilities -
government energy audits, energy efficient
undertakings procurement, adoption of ECBC, etc.
to take up
energy
efficiency Energy efficiency performance index
(EEPI)to be developed by expert
committee (DoP&NES, BEE-SDA, PWD)
and added to MoU from 2013-'14
Develop guidelines for Energy Efficient

public procurement with rationalization
enabling retrofit in existing buildings
and ECBC norms for new buildings
Table 9: Strategies for Electricity sector- Mitigation

Strategies Current Fund Implemented Actions in next 5 years Approx. Actions Plan in next 10 Appr. cost in
program available through cost in years today’s price
mes/proj (institution/prog today’s
ects ramme/project) price
A. Risk Assessment of Climate Impacts on Energy Services
Assessment Risk Assessment of

Studies and energy sources - hydro,
Simulations coal, gas, solar, wind,
biomass, etc. - in
anticipated climate
change situations
(variable rainfall,
temperature, extreme
events)
Risk Assessment of
energy infrastructure in
climate change situations
including extreme events
Risk assessment of
energy demand
B. Mainstreaming Risk-adaptation strategies in Energy Planning and Provision

Strategies Current Fund Implemented Actions in next 5 years Approx. Actions Plan in next 10 Appr. cost in
program available through cost in years today’s price
mes/proj (institution/prog today’s
ects ramme/project) price
Identification Identification and

of risk- Prioritization of
reduction adaptation strategies -
strategies desilting in dams,
relocation of selected
infrastructure,
strengthening
Mainstreaming Include risk-reduction

strategies into elements as components
energy of energy planning,
infrastructure implement and review in
planning, real-time events; retrofit
implementatio existing infrastructure
n and
maintenance
Review and Benchmark and Review

Revise
Table 10: Action Plan for Habitat - Adaptation

Strategies Current Fund Implemented Actions in 12th plan Approx. cost Actions Plan for 13th plan Approx.
program/projects availabl through in today’s cost in
e (institution/ price today’s
program price
/project)
A. Increase Water Security
Conservation of TFC, UIG, UIDSSMT DMA,UDD, Rain Water Harvesting Extend to other buildings
water Resources PHED & all to be made mandatory exceeding set criteria and
ULBs in all public buildings expand to other ULBs
of A,B, C class Towns
To replace all ground 36 ULBs can be covered
water extraction under this program
processes by surface
water treatment
system wherever
feasible - 30 ULBs
Energy Efficient TFC, UIG, UIDSSMT DMA,UDD, Continuity of supply of 150 Crore To replace all existing 260 Crore
Water Supply PHED & all Water To replace all intermittent water supply
System ULBs existing intermittent and direct pumping system
water supply and with 24X7 water supply
direct pumping system program with gravity
with 24X7 water distribution system to
supply program with reduce pumping hours with
gravity distribution less energy consumption in
system to reduce remaining Towns.
pumping hours with
less energy
consumption in 59
nos. Towns.
Reduction in TFC, UIG, UIDSSMT DMA,UDD, Metering of the entire 1000 Crore Metering of the entire 500 Crore
water supply PHED & all system system
program price
/project)
losses ULBs To install meter at To install meter at
generation point, generation point,
intermediate points intermediate points and at
and at consumer ends consumer ends for all towns
for all towns under under category D to E
category A to C
Recycling and TFC, UIG, UIDSSMT Pilot demonstrate and 100 Crore
reuse of waste enforce Waste water
effluent recycling for water
sustainability
B. Enhanced Monitoring, Awareness Building and Ensuring Preparedness
Enhanced DMA,UDD, All Enhanced monitoring 50 Crore
Monioring PRIs/ULBs systems for
Systems for Temerature, rainfall,
Early Warning stream-flows
DMA,UDD, All Awareness Building 50 Crore
PRIs/ULBs for Citizen Action in
case of extreme events
DMA,UDD, All Shelter, Food and
PRIs/ULBs Health facilities for
Poor households in
times of extreme
events
C. Enhanced Design Elements to Strengthen Lifeline Infrastructure
Review Design DMA,UDD, All Enhanced monitoring 50 Crore
elements for PRIs/ULBs systems for
coping during Temperature, rainfall,
extrement stream-flows
events
program price
/project)
Pilot improved TCPO, Pilot, Demonstrate, 10 Crore
designs Engineering Review
Wings,
PR&RD, DMA
Assess and Incorporate in Bye-
Incorporate in laws, Building Code,
normal planning Guidelines for all
routine lifeline infrsatructure
elements
Table 11: Action plan for Habitats- Risk Mitigation

Strategies Current Fund Implemented through Actions in years Approx. Actions Plan in Approx.
program/projects available (institution/program 0-5 cost in years 6-10 cost in
/project) today’s today’s
price price
A. Strengthen and Enhance Ongoing M&E Systems along with Enforcement Capacities
Create systems Abatement of 5 Crore WBPCB Strengthen 25.0 To discuss withy 10 Crore
for ongoing Pollution existing capacities Crore different missions
pollution and infrastructure and set up
monitoring, in WBPCB; To appropriately
analysis extend ambient designed M&E
Air quality infrastructure and
monitoring and carry on-going data
include systems collection to be made
for GHG emission available to
monitoring Knowledge Mission
price price
Devise 0.25
methodology for a Crore
rapid assessment
of GHG emissions
at ULB level;
Implement and
assess strategic
emission
reduction options
for different ULB
types emerging.
Strengthen Abatement of 0.5 Crore WBPCB, Institutes, DMA, Strengthen 5 Crore Verify compliance
existing systems Pollution UDD, Industries existing
for achieving Monitoring
enforcement authority with a
view of enforcing
rules and
punishing non-
compliance
Information Update Knowledge-
collected will base
update
knowledge base
and also be used
in Awareness
Program.
Design and 5 Crore Continue awareness 10 Crore
Implement mass building in discussion
awareness with various state
price price
camapign for missions

Climate change
issues and
current data
results; Involve
Schools, Colleges,
NGOs and Pvt.
Sector
B. Risk Assessment of Climate Impacts on Lifeline Infrastructure
Assessment NDMA NIL State Disaster Risk Assessment 1 Crore
Studies and Management Authority, of lifeline
Simulations DPR&RD, DMA&UD infrastructure -
roads, water
supply, sewerage,
power
transmission, etc.
- in anticipated
climate change
situations
(variable rainfall,
temperature,
extreme events)
Risk Assessment
of lifeline
infrastructure in
climate change
situations
including extreme
events
price price
B. Mainstreaming Risk-adapatation strategies in Service Infrastructure Planning and Provision

Identification of JNNURM Identification and 3 Crore
risk-reduction Prioritization of
strategies adaptation
strategies -
desilting in dams,
relocation of
selected
infrastructure,
etc.
Mainstreaming Include risk-
strategies into reduction
infrastructure elements as
planning, components of
implementation infrastructure
and maintenance planning,
implement and
review in real-
time events;
retrofit existing
infrastructure
Review and Benchmark and
Revise Review
Table 12: Adaptation Strategies, Actions and Timelines- Water Resources- Darjeeling Himalayas
Strategies Actions Department Action in 12th Plan Action in 13th plan

/Institutions
Concerned
i.Develop a water Develop policy through a. Undertake series of meetings -

policy for the district stakeholder consultations b. Develop policy
to guide distribution
and management of
Rs . 0.10Cr
water resources
keeping in view the
typical
circumstances of
the hilly and the
terai regions
ii. Create additional Build Additional water harvesting IPHED a. Estimate water demand Build 50% of the
storage capacities to structures such as reservoirs, keeping in view the increasing structures
store excess runoff roof top water harvesting temperatures as well as increase
water in the structures on commercial, and in population both for the towns Rs 200.00Cr
monsoon and water government buildings to catch as well as rural areas in the future
from additional the run off as well as rain fall (next 100 yrs). - Rs. 0.20 Cr
rainfall to be directly for augmenting the water
received during Oct- storage capacity of the hill region. b. Renovate old reservoirs to
Dec with respect to avoid leakages – Rs.100.00 Cr
base line in the hill Also renovate/repair old
reservoirs c.Identify the areas where the
region reservoirs and water harvesting
structures can be built to meet

/Institutions
Concerned
demand – Rs 0.50 Cr
d.Build 50% of the structures

including water distribution
systems – Rs.200.00Cr
iii. Prepare for Update maps of land slide prone GSI Identify the potential land slide
combating adverse area map prone areas and update the
impacts of projected DMA existing map for Darjeeling hill
rise in extreme areas
precipitation events
– soil erosion, land Rs.5.00 Cr
slides, flash floods
Develop action plans to fortify the PHE a. Develop the action plan a.Implement soil
landslide prone areas - soil within 1st two years of 12th conservation and anti slide
conservation measures and anti Deptt of Agri plan- Rs. 0.50 Cr measures in 50% of areas
b. Implement soil conservation
slide protection measures in land Department of and anti slide measures in Rs 200.00 Cr
slide prone area etc. and Agriculture 50% of areas
implement measures Rs. 200.00 Cr
Municipal
Authority
Siliguri Municipal
Authority
Darjeeling

/Institutions
Concerned
Create canals for diverting excess Deptt of a. Identify the nodes Finish construction of
water in rivers during flash floods Irrigation and through which excess water diversion canals
Flood Control waters can be diverted
b. Implement construction Rs.500.00 Cr
Municipal Rs 500.00 Cr
Authority
Siliguri
Improve drainage system of the Siliguri Municipal Identify the works required to Implent 75% of the works
Siliguri area to prevent water Authority improve the drainage system-
logging after flash floods such as dredging of drains, Rs 150.00 Cr
especially in the tea estate areas building extra drains, building
in and around Siliguri channels etc.
Implement 25% of the works
Rs 50.00 CR
i.Promote efficient The coverage being now PHE Cover 50% of the households Cover rest
use of water and provided to households through
deter wastage JNNURM across Siliguri needs Rs 100.00 Cr Rs.100.00 cr
also to be connected with water
meters to promote water
efficiency and discourage

/Institutions
Concerned
wastage
Darjeeling water supply is house

to house but it also needs to
connect the connections with
meters to promote water use Rs 75.00 Cr Rs 75.00 Cr
efficiency and deter wastage.
v. Prepare - Climate Change Preapre the plan within the 1st Continue Monitoring and
monitoring and Cell, Government two years of 12th plan including evaluation activities
evaluation plans to of West Bengal plan for feed back.
check the Rs 2.00 Cr
integration of
climate change
concerns in water
management Start analyzing the existing
programmes to understand the
areas were CC concerns can be
integrated
Undertake continuous monitoring


/Institutions
Concerned
and mid term evaluation of the

strategies and actions
implemented as a part of the
SAPCC
Advise the departments about the

result of the evaluation so the
implementing agencies in this
case line departments can
undertake mid term corrections
Total: Rs 5.00 Cr
Grand TotalL Rs. 1237.00 Cr Rs.1177.00 Cr
Table 13: Adaptation Strategies, Actions and Timelines- Agriculture Sector – Darjeeling Himalayas

/Institutions
Concerned

/Institutions
Concerned
i. Promote of a.Identify the indigenous crops Depart. Of Undertake research studies to -

indigenous food that are grown in the region such Agriculture Identify the crops in 1st two years
crops of the hills as pulses, oil seeds, rice, wheat, of 12th plan
that can with stand maize, and millet NABARD
heat stress NGOs
Rs.1.00 Cr
b.Create community seed banks Deptt of Agri Start the process of creating Continue the process of
for these varieties in villages community seed banks 50% of creating community seed
NABARD the villages in Darjeeling district banks in rest of the 50% of
NGOs the villages
Rs.5.00 Cr
Rs.5.00 Cr
c.Conserve germplasm of these BCKV and Undertake activities towards Continue action of
indigenous varieties University of conservation of germpalsm of conservation of germpalsm
North Bengal indigenous varieties
Rs.5.00 Cr
Rs 5.00 Cr
Identify the impact of climate Agriculture Undertake study on CC impacts -

change on these crops and seeds Department, on indigenous crops and seeds
Noth Bengal
In 1st two yrs of 12th plan and
publish the results

/Institutions
Concerned
Rs0.50 Cr
Undertake studies to fortify them BCKV Undertake scientific study to Continue study
against the adverse impacts of fortify/ develop new strains of
climate change the indigenous varieties Rs 5.00 Cr
Rs 5.00 Cr
Advertising campaigns on -Continue with additional

nutritive values of indigenous varities aidentified
Facilitate market creation for the crops
indigenous produce
Rs 0,50 Cr
Rs 1.00 Cr
Undertake economic analysis to
fix selling prices that are
attractive for farmers to
encourage them to grow
Rs 0,.25 Cr
ii. Facilitate Identify degraded lands that are Deptt of Agri Demarcate land for agriculture at -
agriculture cropping cultivable at higher altitudes higher altitudes without
centres to survive at where cropping can take place Deptt of Forests encroaching upon healthy forest
lower latitudes even along with forests- promote areas
at higher agroforestry at higher altitudes
Rs .1.00 Cr

/Institutions
Concerned
temperatures Identify the requirement of -do- Undertake study and sell shades
shades in the lower latitudes and at subsidised rates
subsidise the same for framers
Rs. 2.00 Cr
iii.Undertake soil Narrow bench terracing can be Deptt of Agri Identify area where it need sto be Implement in 75% of the
conservation and implemented across hilly areas done areas- Rs 75.00 Cr
anti slide measures to avoid soil erosion
along hilly slopes to Implement in 25% of the areas
avert soil erosion Rs 25.00 Cr
and loss in soil
nutrient Promote aided natural -do- Identify the areas where aided Implement in 75% of the
regeneration during fallow natural regeration can be area
period in the hills practiced
Rs 75.00 Cr
Implement in 25% of the area
Rs 25.00 Cr
Undertake contour bunding -do- Identify the areas where aided Implement in 75% of the
measures contour bunding can be practiced area
Rs 25.00 Cr Rs 75.00 Cr
Promote Zero tillage of soil both -do- Implement in 50% of the area Implement in 50% of the

/Institutions
Concerned
in hills and terai Rs 0.50 Cr area
Rs 0.50 Cr
Promote green manuring in Terai Identify areas and relevant green Implement in 50% of the
manuring species that can be area
sown

Rs 10.00 Cr
Rs 10.00 Cr
iv.Promote Develop Integrated Pest and Deptt of Undertake study to Identify the Continue to Develop IPMs
Integrated Disease Management Plan that Agriculture crops that are prone to disease for key crops
Management of identifies crops suitable for a and pest and identify the
emerging and particular altitude, promotes use North Bengal potential pests and diseases that Disseminate to farmers
current pests and of certified diseases free seeds, University might emerge with increase in Rs 5.00 Cr
diseases identifies the organic fertilisers ICAR temperature
applicable, identifies the relevant
bio pesticides, and other methods Rs.5.00 Cr
for avoidance of pest and
diseases such as intercropping
etc. Develop IPMs for the existing
diseases and pests and
Disseminate to farmers

/Institutions
Concerned
Rs 5.00 Cr
Facilitate availability of organic KVKs KVKs can facilitate the training KVks can continue to
fertiliser and bio pesticides through facilitate
training for developing them Rs 5.00 Cr
Rs 5.00 Cr
v.Intensify Identify the Rabi crops that can Deptt. of Agri Identify the crops through Popularise through KVKs
agrciluture activities be grown research
to the Rabi season ICAR Rs 5.00 Cr
secure food Rs 5.00 Cr
KVK
Popularise the Rabi crops
amongst farmers
Popularise rabi crops through
KVK
Rs 5.00 Cr
Total Rs.124.75 Rs.286.00 Cr

Table 14: Adaptation Strategies, Actions and Timelines- Biodiversity and Forests- Darjeeling Himalayas

/Institutions
Concerned
1.Plan activities to Monitor invasive species Deptt of Forests Undertake study to continuously Continue study
reduce open forest monitor invasive species
area, enhance
quality of Rs 10.00 Cr
Rs 10.00 Cr
moderately dense
forests and protect Identify and plant non invasive Deptt of Forests Identify open areas, moderately Undertake planting in rest
the dense forests species that can survive climate dense areas and dense areas of the 50% of the area
from degrading. change and be beneficial to the
ecosystem
Identify species suitable for these Total: Rs. 200.00 Cr
areas at different altitudes that
can be beneficial to the ecosystem
and can survive climate change
Undertake systematic planting in

50% of the area
Total: 500.00 Cr

/Institutions
Concerned
Undertake Integrated Deptt of Forests Develop protocol for Integrated Continue to implement
Management of pests and Pest and Diseases management IPM
diseases for each identifiable vegetation
species in forests Rs .20.00 Cr
Implement the IPM on a case by

case basis
Rs.50.00 Cr
Adoption of short rotation Deptt of Forests Identify short rotation crops Continue with the
species, preventing forest activities
fragmentation, undertake eco
restoration of degraded open Design plans for prevention of
forests, and restoration of grass forest fragmentation by Rs 500.00 Cr
land conserving contiguous forest
patches.
Develop plans for eco-restoration

of degraded open forests

/Institutions
Concerned
Design plan for undertaking eco

restoration of grass lands at the
base of the Darjeeling Himalayas
Rs 500.00 Cr
Develop a base line of the Deptt of Forests Undertake study in the 12th plan -
biodiversity of the floral and
faunal species of the forests
Rs 5.00 Cr
Assess base line Carbon Deptt of Forests Undertake the study in the 12th -
sequestration potential of the plan
forests and project as to how
much additional seuestration can
occur if quality of forests is Rs 1.00 Cr
enhanved
Assess the value of the forest Deptt of Forests Undertake the study in the 12th -
products and ecosystem services plan
and how it can improve through
enhancement of quality of forests
Rs 1.00 Cr for all ecosystem

/Institutions
Concerned
services
Tentative Rs 5.00 Cr
2. Empower Design a programme for Department of Design and impart training to i.Monitor progress
communities living community empowerment on Forests communities on
in and around forest resources with built in
forests to manage guidance for natural resource i.Ensure maintenance of quality of
dense forests ii.Intervene where
forests for management, conservationof necessary
enhancing its biodiversity , C sequestration and ii.Enhance quality of open forest
quality, for for marketing ecosystem services
conserving provided iii.Iincrease forest cover
biodiversity, iii.Upgrade technology of
preventing fire and iv. Conservation of biodiversity management
benefitting through v. Enhance forest prduce
payment for
ecosystem services vi. Enhance hydrological services iv.Train communities
rendered
vii. Undertake a study for
valuation of ecosystem services
and facilitate Marketing of the Rs 10.00 Cr
same

/Institutions
Concerned
Rs 10.00 Cr
3.Establish long Establish methodology of Biodiversity To be carried out in 1st one year
term systematic monitoring and documentation Board of 12th plan
monitoring of flora, of biodiversity on a regular basis
and fauna in through stakeholder consultation Department of
Darjeeling Himalays Forest
Rs 1.00 Cr
to understand the Department of
impact of all types of Envt.
drivers including
climate change Establish a permanent long term Biodiversity Disseminate about the Rs 50.00 Cr
rolling grant to engage the Board programme to students and NGos
services of school, college,
university students and NGOs, Department of
researchers from all across the Forest
Offer scholarships for Ph.D
state Department of
Envt.
DST Design school projects


/Institutions
Concerned
Design projects at undergraduate

level
Seek projects from researchers

for studying biodiversity
Rs 50.00 Cr
4.Devise suitable Identify species that are most Forest Depatt. Launch a study to identify the Continue study
strategies for susceptible to climate change most susceptible species likely to
conservation and need migration as temperatures Rs 10.00 Cr
facilitation of species rise
migration to adapt
to climate change Rs 10.00 Cr
Devise suitable strategies for Forest Deptt. Develop plans for adaptation for Continue work
their adaptation facilitating species migration
Rs 1.00 Cr
Rs 1.00 Cr
Implement measures Forest Depatt. Implement the species migration Continue to implement in
measures other areas

/Institutions
Concerned
Rs 100.00 Cr Rs 100.00 Cr
(Rs 25 Cr for 5 years for 4 most

suitable measures)
5.Devise strategies Develop land use planning by Forest Deptt Identify forest areas where man Continue with support
to prevent man demarcating buffer zones animal conflict is imminent due to
animal conflict in a between wildlife and human degradation of forests Rs 50.00 Cr
changing climate habitats
scenario Demarcate areas for buffer zone
Notify Buffer zone
Rs 10.00 Cr
Design and develop buffer zone Forest Deptt Rs 100.00 Cr
Total Rs.1351.00 Cr Rs 1441.00 Cr
Table 15: Strategies/Actions/Timelines and Budgets for Tea Sector – Darjeeling Himalayas
Strategies Actions Deptt/ Actions in 12th Plan Actions in 13th Plan
Institutions
concerned
1.Avoiding shifting Developing cultivars that can Tea Board Undertake research in 12th plan Continue research
of production sustain higher temperatures and Research and
centres to higher retain the typical Flavour Development
altitudes Unit Rs. 10.00 Cr
Rs 10.00 Cr
Deptt of
BioTechnology
University of
North Bengal
Identifying agricultural practices -do- Undertake study -Continue study

that would enable retain original
flavor for the new cultivar Rs 10.00 Cr Rs 10.00 Cr
2.Managing Tea Undertake research to develop -do- Undertake study Continue study
from adverse cultivars that are drought
impacts of Drought resistant Rs 10.00 Cr Rs 10.00 Cr
Identify measures to retain soil -do- Measures such as contour Rs 90.00 Cr

moisture trenching amongst others and
implement the same in 25% of
the area
Rs 10.00 Cr
Explore possibilities of -do

developing additional water
storage capacities for storing
runoff for its use for irrigation in

water stress periods (Oct-March).
3.Combating soil Cover the soil and prevent it Tea Board Identify suitable measures such Implement in rest of the
erosion and land getting exposed to rain directly as no tillage, planting of grass, 50% of the area
slides in identified Tea Planters legumes, creepers etc. Undertake
soil ersion and land pilot study in limited area Rs 100.00 Cr
slide prone areas.
Implement suitable measures
identified in measures in 50% of
the area
Rs 30.00 Cr
Reduce speed of water along the Tea Board Identify contour lines and Undertake construction in
slope through constructions construct along them 75% of the areas
Tea Planters appropriately any of the
following:
-Wooden barriers Rs 100.00 Cr
-Bench terraces
-Contour bunding and explore

intercropping with pineapple
Undertake construction in 25% of

the area
Total cost of study

+implementation
Rs 30.00 Cr
4.Managing Pests Develop Integrated Pest and Identify soil cover crop that is Implement measure in
and Diseases Disease Management Plans resistant to pests and disease 75% of the area
Identify biofertiliser Rs 100.00 Cr
Undertake pilot study
Implement measures in 25% of

the area
Cost: Study+Impl.=Rs. 30.00 Cr
Total Rs 130.00 Cr Rs.400.00 Cr

Table 16: Strategies/actions/timelines and budgets for medicinal plants, oranges and orchids – Darjeeling Himalayas
Institutions
concerned
Medicinal Plants and orchids
1.Facilitate retention Liase with forest department to Cinchona Develop guidelines for enhancing Continue the work
of soil moisture in ensure afforestation of degraded Directorate forest moisture appropriate for
forest areas and in forests, open forests with medicinal plants
areas where appropriate vegetation type and Rs 10.00 Cr
medicinal plants are enhance quality of dense forests Forest
commercially grown Department Identify areas and prioritise
actions
Private growers
if any Implement rejuvenation/
ecorestoration of the forests
Directorate of
Horticulture, Undertake activities to restore
Darjeeling distt. soil moisture of commercial
plantations
Deptt of
Horticultire WB Rs 10.00 Cr
Horticulture
mission
2. Invest in research Undertake research Cinchona Identify 5 or 6 medicinal plants Continue research
for developing Directorate that have high commercial
thermal resistant potential. Rs 12.00 Cr
cultivars of
medicinal plants Forest
Department Undertake research to develop
thermal resistant cultivars for
them
Private growers
if any
Rs 12.00 Cr
Depatt of
Biotechnology
Horticulture
mission
Deptt of
Horticulture
Darjeeling Mandarin oranges
Facilitate drainage Identify areas where water Deptt of Undertake identification activities Continue implementation
of water during logging can be a concern horticulture for water logged areas and of measures in 505 of the
extreme rain fall drainage measures areas
events
Rs 75.00 Cr
Identify measures for drainage Horticulture
mission Implement anti water logging
measures in 50% of the areas
Rs 30.00 Cr
Avoid soil erosion Identify areas where soil erosion Deptt of Identification activities to be Continue implementing
due to extreme rain is likely to go up horticulture carried out within 1st 2 yrs of 12th measures in rest of the
fall plan 75% of the area
Identify contours along which soil
erosion measures will be
implemented Horticulture
mission Implement measures in 25% of Rs 75.00 Cr
Identify measures to avert soil the areas in rest 3 years
erosion
Rs 25.00 Cr
Impelemnt soil erosion measures
Develop and Develop packages of integrated Deptt of Identify the diseases and pests Continue with work to
implement IPDM pest and disease management horticulture afflicting oranges in Darjeeling develop packages for new
using organic manuring and pest and emerging pests and
packages and disease control agents for diseases and disseminate

oranges
Horticulture Identify the new pests that might
mission infest the oranges with rising
temperatures Rs 10.00 Cr
Develop a number of packages
Pilot the packages for testing
Disseminate selected package

amongst farmers
Rs. 10.00 Cr
Develop thermal Undertake research to develop Deptt of Rs 10.00 Cr Rs 10.00 Cr

resistant cultivars of thermal resistant cultivars of horticulture
Darjeeling mandarin Darjeeling mandarin orange
oranges
Horticulture
mission
Deptt of
biotechnology
ICAR
Total Rs 147.00 Cr Rs 192.00 Cr
Table 17: Strategy for ecotourism – Darjeeling Himalayas
Institutions
concerned
Dvelop a ecotourism Actions are outlined in section Deptt of Tourism Undertake stakeholder
policy for the 10.5.6 consultation meetings
district
Deptt of forests
Identify issues that need to be
taken care of in the policy
Panchyati Raj
Formulate and publish the policy

Gorkha Hill
Council
Ensures measures of Monitoring
to avoid mal conservation
Bidodiversity practices adopted if any

Board
Provide small grantst to villagers

Deptt of to upgrade facilities in their
Environment homes to accommodate tourists
DST Rs 1.00 Cr (Suggestive – only for

meetings)
Table 18: Adaptation strategies for managing Urban Habitats,Energy and Transport – Darjeeling Himalayas
Institutions
concerned
1.A detailed Undertake the study PHE Undertake the study in 1st 3 yrs of -
assessment of water 12th plan
demand and
availability in the
future vis a vis rising Rs 0.50 lakhs
temperatures due to
Institutions
concerned
climate change
2. Develop a blue Undertake study to assess Renewable Undertake study in the 1st 3 yrs of Extend supply to rest o
print for addressing demand in future and devise the energy deptt 12th plan fthe 50% of the population
the additional renewable energy blue print to
energy requirement address demand
of the district in the Map natural resource potential Rs 65.00 Cr
context of climate across the district – hydro,
change through the biomass including fuel wood,
renewable energy solar radiation
route
Identify regions, target

population and feasible
renewable energy mix that can be
used for generating electricity
Implement pilots in different

regions of the district with
different renewable energy mix
models
Institutions
concerned
Extend supply to 50% of the

targeted population
Rs 100.00 Cr
3. Retrofit the Undertake study to assess the National study to assess the likely flow of Retrofit the existing
designs of large likely flow of glacier fed rivers Hydrpower glacier fed rivers with climate reservoirs to meet the
Hydropower with climate change in the Corporation change in the Eastern Himalayn requirements of CC
reservoirs keeping Eastern Himalayn region region- 1st three yrs of 12th plan
in view the climate
change impacts: Rs 1000.00 Cr
Based on this study change, Based on this study change,
assess design changes required assess design changes required
and develop protocol in the next
two yrs
Introduce the design concepts in
upcoming large hydro projects
Introduce the design concepts in
upcoming large hydro projects
Retrofit the existing ones to meet
the requirements of CC
Rs 10.00 Cr
Institutions
concerned
4.Map and treat Undertake mapping acivities Deptt of urban The climate change scenarios in Apply anti land slide and
erosion prone areas development conjunction with soil and soil erosion measures in
in and around urban techntonic characteristics across rest of the 80% areas
habitats Undertake treatment of land in the state need to be mapped and
identified areas final layer of land slide prone
areas developed Rs 100.00 Cr
Identify appropriate measures for

each area
Apply measures in the last 2 yrs

of 12th plan in 20% of the
identified areas
Rs 30.00 Cr
Develop Integrated Undertake study to assess future Deptt of Undertake study in 12th plan Implement action in 13th
transport plan for all transport requirement and how it Tranpsort Plan
the towns of can be tackeled in the different
Darjeeling district cities in Darjeeling Rs 5.00 Cr
with initial focus of Ministry of 2nd phase – Siliguri
Darjeeling town and
Institutions
concerned
Siliguri surface transport

and Highways
Assess GHG emission projections Implement action from 2rd yr. Rs 500.00 Cr
and identify policy measures to
reduce the same
One city in 1st phase – Darjeeling,
Kurseong and kalimpong
Implement policy measures and
actions as listed in section 10.5.7
of this chapter Rs 300.00 Cr
Table 19: Adaptation strategies/ Actions/ Timelines and budgets for managing Human Health in Darjeeling District
Institutions
concerned
Bridging gaps in Identify the year to year gaps Deptt of Health Assess the gaps and keep Continue recruitment of
health infrastructure published in the NRHM reviews GoWB financial provision for bridging fresh graduates
identified in NRHM and bridge the gaps the gaps
review
Institutions
concerned
May encourage a policy of Rs 100.00 Cr

compulsory village posting for a
year fresh medical and nursing
graduates to ensure health
service delivery
Rs 75.00 Cr
Communisation of Identify communities Deptt of Health Identification + Training

Rural Health
Identification + Training
Identify functions of the Rs 100.00 Cr

communities
Rs 100.00 Cr
Train communities on various

health services they will be
expected to deliver like managing
finances, auditing finances,
requisitioning of health workers
including doctors, nurses,
additional help, identification of
people with symptoms of
diseases and reporting ti the
Institutions
concerned
CHCs
Scaling up IDSP All the above can feed into the Deptt of Health The department will nedd to -
intelligence IDSP intelligence for policy designate an officer in each CHC
resourcing development as well as reaching to report the intelligence
out with cure gathered.
Rs 1.00 Cr
Developing Identify specialists Deptt of Health Rs 100.00 Cr Rs 100.00 Cr

telemedicine
facilities for remote Develop tele communication
areas facilities in all remote villages
Private sector
Train villagers to operate through under their CSR
skype scheme can bear
the cost of
Set up regular interactive consultancy
sessions with the specialist
Provision for air Identify the number of such Deptt of health Rs 100.00 Cr Rs 100.00 Cr
transport to district transportation required and buy.
hospitals for critical
patients from
Institutions
concerned
remote areas fitted Also identify areas where the Private sector
with provisions of helicopter can land in different
emergency action villages
Undertake study to Undertake the study, publish and Rs 0.50 Cr -

identify future disseminate results for informed
disease prevalence policy making as well as
and vulnerable upscaling infrastructure reeq.
population for Including health service
policy augmentation personnel deployment
in the health sector
Developing disaster Identify land slide prone areas Deptt of health Develop the plan in 12th plan Rs 10.00 Cr for upkeep
risk reduction plan
Identify flood prone areas District Disaster
Management cell
Develop systems for early Publish the plan
weather warning including State Disaster
pollution levels Management
Authority On ground keep ready the
Plan for rapid mobilisation etc
infrastructure requirements
Undertake regular drills

Institutions
concerned
Incorporate the management

plan in school curricumum
Rs 100.00 Cr
Table 20 : Strategy, Action, Time line and budgets for Sundarbans
Strategy Agencies to be involved Action in 12th Plan Action in 13th

plan
Strategy to seek protection from increasing intensity of cyclones
i. Undertaking a study to generate Climate Change Cell Undertake the study in -
low , medium and high scenarios Department of Environment the 1st 3 yrs of the 12th
of impacts of climate change on GoWB plan
cyclones, for 2030s, 2050s, and Deptt of Science and
2080s, to enable planning. Technology Cost: Rs 1.00 Cr
IMD, Universities, Research
Instts.
ii. Identify the level of tolerance of Deptt of Biodiversity Undertake the study -
the various existing mangrove Deptt of Forests within 12th plan
species to the different levels of Deptt of Environment

projected salinity and flood water University and Research Cost: Rs 2.0 Cr
depth. Instt.
iii. Identify, the type and density of Undertake the study in Continue the
the mangroves required to act the 1st three years of 12th activity in 13th
successfully as the 1st level of plan plan in 75% of the
defense and accordingly, the areas
mangrove plantation can be taken Cost: Rs. 1.00
over. Start mangrove plantation Rs 3.00 Cr
to bridge the gap in 25%
of the identifies areas
Rs 1.00 CR
iv. Scientifically design and Deptt. of Science and Test designs of Continue the
construct/retrofit the type and Technology, embankments in the construction
height of embankment to protect Identified Research Instt, laboratory through
the flood plains from the cyclonic I & W Deptt. simulation, to test Cost: Rs 1000.00
waves and sea surges Universities / IIT Research effectiveness of Cr
Instts. embankments to with
stand different levels of
Private sector wave heights and storm
surges at various places in
the Sundarbans, e.g. along
the creeks, rivers and
coast line
Purchase of land,
Start constructing the
embankments based on
this input
Cost: Rs 1000.00 Cr
v. Design the existing houses on Department of Sundarban Identify the vulnerable Implement
stilts based on the level of flood Affairs region and the houses construction in
water height likely to be Panchyati Raj that need to be retrofitted 75% of the
encountered in the future. Also Ministry of Rural identified houses
Identify safe areas, and build Development (MGNREGA) Select the design of
cyclone / flood shelters Housing Department retrofitting Rs 75.00 Cr
District Administration
Implement construction
in 25% of the identified
houses
Construction of Cyclone /
Flood Shelters
Cost Rs. 200.00 Cr
vi. Mobilise communities to take NGOs Identify steps to make the Continue
action rapidly and cyclone proof Panchayati Raj communities aware about dissemination
themselves when early warnings National Disaster taking action when
are sounded by authorities Management Authority and sounded about impending Rs 5.00 Cr
concerned deptt and cell in calamity
the state
Design the actions that
they need to take for
rapid mobilization – like
getting in touch with
relevant instt, accessing
transport etc.
Disseminate through
continuous workshops
and messages in cell
phones
Undertake regular
disaster management
drills to make them
disaster ready
Rs 5.00 Cr
vii. Strengthen communication- Deptt of Roads and Identify the roads that Continue in 13th
Roads/ Bridges/Jetties/ Ramps, etc Transport still need to be made fair Plan
and telephone communication Deptt of Sundarban Affairs weather roads and
Deptt of Communication construction thereof; Rs 200.00 Cr
Identify / bridges / jetties

/ ramps, etc that still need
to be made & their
construction;
Install telephone towers

everywhere for easy
communication
Rs 200.00 Cr
viii. Building up infrastructure for I & W Deptt, Deptt of SA, Creation & rejuvenation Continuation of
sustainable livelihoods Power Deptt, Deptt of of irrigation potentials works in 13th Plan
development : irrigation & Agricultural Marketing, through rain water Rs. 200 cr.
drainage, electricity, storage, Deptt of Horti & Food harvesting and back
processing & market facilities, Processing, Deptt of water from Hooghly
Fisheries River;
Drainage development for
identified basins,
Extension of electricity-
conventional & non-
conventional sources,
Construction of multi-
purpose cold storages,
Setting up marketing
centres,
Rs. 200 crore
ix. Rehabilitation & renovation R.R. & R Deptt, Settlement with necessary Settlement with
package for disaster hit households Environment Deptt, facilities, social services necessary
on the consequence of climate District Administration and alternative facilities, social
change livelihoods, etc services and
Rs. 100 cr. alternative
livelihoods, etc
Rs. 100 cr.
Total Cost Rs 1710.00 Rs 1583.00 Cr
Protect agriculture productivity and o Height and quality of the
livelihoods embank plays an Carry out 50% of the Carry out 50% of
important role in the actions
protecting agriculture in actions Rs 100.00 Cr

the region from additional
salinity in soil due to Rs 100.00 Cr
projections of increasing
intensity of cyclones
o Increase irrigation
facilities by increasing
surface reservoirs such as
ponds and dighis to store
rain water
o Introduce thermal
resistant and salt tolerant
rice cultivars
o Promote commercial level
coconut plantations in
saline areas
o Promote horticulture
vegetable crops
o Provide access to markets
through construction of
roads
o Crop Insurance
Promote alternate livelihood o Develop a fishery policy Undertake policy Provide insurance
opportunities may be formulated formulation for cover to 50% of
centering around promoting inland and fishermen
conservation vis a vis marine fisheries Rs 50.00 Cr
climate change impacts.
o Promote Inland and Develop modeling
marine fisheries by capacities
building appropriate
infrastructure for cold Provide insurance cover

storage and access to to 50% of fishermen
markets Rs 100.00 Cr
o Develop modeling
capabilities for forecasting
fish catch areas in marine
and inland water
environment
o Provide insurance to
fishermen against
calamities.
o Provide insurance to the
stakeholders of allied
sectors against calamities.
Enhance the accessibility to o Extend pipe water Extend facilities to 50% of Continue with rest
drinking water: connection to all households of the 50%
households Create infrastructure to activities
o Arrange to draw fresh use potable water from RS 100.00 Cr
water from western western rivers
rivers flowing through Create 50% of the
sundarbans planned reservoirs much
o Build over ground above the ground to avoid
reservoirs to store rain salinisation due to sea
water level rise/cyclones/storm
surges
Rs 1000.00 Cr
Improve accessibility to health o Bridge gaps in the Rs 200 Cr (Identification Continue with the
facilities: existing health of gaps, process of activities.
infrastructure and health communisation, and Cost- Rs 100.00 Cr
service delivery development of disaster

Communitise health risk reduction plans have
service delivery to start in 12thplan)
o Develop telemedicine
facilities
o Develop rapid transport
for critically injured – by
pressing in helicopter
services. Develop disaster
preparedness to abate
disease outbreaks and
undertake regular drills.
Conserve biodiversity: o Continue with ongoing Rs 5.00 Cr – research Rs. 100.00 Cr -

policies and actions of the component Implementation of
Forest Department afforestation and
o Further research may be conservation of
launched to understand flora and fauna
the nature of impacts of activities
climate change on
Mangroves in terms of its
floral and faunal
biodiversity, to plan for
afforestation measures
and for conservation of
fauna as per the dictates
of the changing climate
scenarios
Annexure 2
Government of West Bengal

Department of Environment
No. EN/ 1108 /T-III-2/001/2010 Date : 12 /04/2010

NOTIFICATION
Whereas, climate change has emerged as single most challenge before us to sustain
human development in future in a sustainable manner,
Whereas, planned adaptation and mitigation work can reduce the impact of
anthropogenic climate change,
Whereas, Government of India has put in place a National Action Plan on climate change
in the year 2008 which specifies the broad framework for course of action in climate related
fields through eight national missions,
Whereas, Ministry of Environment, Government of India urged upon the states to frame
their respective State Action Plan on climate change,
Whereas, the Government of West Bengal resolved to prepare their own State Action
Plan,
Therefore, Governor is pleased to constitute the following two committees to prepare

the State Action Plan on Climate Change.
A. Steering Committee
Chief Secretary, Government of West Bengal
Principal Secretary, Department of Environment, Government of West Bengal
Addl. Chief Secretary, Department of Forests, Government of West Bengal
Addl. Chief Secretary, Department of Power & NES, Government of West Bengal
Principal Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, Government of West Bengal
Principal Secretary, Department of Urban Development, Government of West Bengal
Principal Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Government of West Bengal
Principal Secretary, Department of Sundarban Affairs, Government of West Bengal
Principal Secretary, Department of Panchayat & Rural Development, Government of
West Bengal
Secretary, Department of Municipal Affairs, Government of West Bengal
B. Drafting Committee
Shri Subrat Dhaundyal, IFS, CCF, Central, Forest Department
Shri Nabani Dey, WBCS (Exe.) Special Secretary, Urban Development Department
Dr. Pradip Sen, Jt. D.A. (Res), W.B., Agriculture Department
Dr. Kallol Kr. Mukherjee, WBCS (Exe.), Project Manager, CMU, KUSP
Shri Subhash Acharya, Jt. Project Director (Monitoring and Evaluation), Sundarban
Development Board
Shri S.P. Gonchoudhury, Managing Director, West Bengal Green Energy Development
Corporation
Shri Indranil Mukhopadhyay, Programme Officer, Panchayat & Rural Development
Department
Dr. P. Chakrabarti, Chief Scientist, Science & Technology Department
Shri Debal Ray, Chief Environment Officer - Convenor
The drafting committee will be responsible for drafting the State Action Plan on Climate
Change. They may constitute sector-wise working groups involving the line departments and
experts. The working groups may hold consultations and come up with sectoral plans. It will be
the responsibility of drafting committee to synthesize the sectoral plans into a State Action Plan.
The steering committee will review periodically the progress of State Action Plan
preparation and provide guidance to the drafting committee.
The draft State Action Plan on Climate Change will be prepared within 6 months from
the date of publication of this notification.
By the order of the Governor
Sd/-
( M. L. Meena )
Principal Secretary
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
No. EN/ 1108 /T-III-2/001/2010/1(9) Date : 12 /04/2010
Copy forwarded for information and necessary action to :-
1. Shri Subrat Dhaundyal, IFS, CCF, Central, Forest Department, Aranya Bhavan, 10A, LA Block, Sector –
III, Salt Lake, Kolkata – 700 098
2. Shri Nabani Dey, WBCS (Exe.) Special Secretary, Urban Development Department, Nagarayan
Bhavan, DF-8, Sector – I, Salt Lake City, Kolkata – 700 064
3. Dr. Pradip Sen, Jt. D.A. (Res), W.B., Agriculture Department, Writers’ Buildings, Kolkata – 700 001
4. Dr. Kallol Kr. Mukherjee, WBCS (Exe.), Project Manager, CMU, Kolkata Urban Services for the Poor,
Ilgus Bhavan, HC-Block, Sector – 3, Bidhannagar, Kolkata- 700 106.
5. Shri Subhash Acharya, Jt. Project Director (Monitoring and Evaluation), Sundarban Development
Board, Mayukh Bhavan, Kolkata – 700 091
6. Shri S.P. Gonchoudhury, Managing Director, West Bengal Green Energy Development Corporation,
Bikalpa Shakti Bhavan, J-1/10, EP & GP Block, Sector-V, Salt Lake Electronics Complex,
Kolkata – 91
7. Shri Indranil Mukhopadhyay, Programme Officer, Panchayat & Rural Development Department,
Jessoph Building, Kolkata – 700 001
8. Dr. P. Chakrabarti, Chief Scientist, Science & Technology Department, Bikash Bhavan, Salt Lake,
Kolkata – 700 064
9. Shri Debal Ray, Chief Environment Officer, Environment Department
Sd/-
( S. Moitra )
Joint Secretary
No. EN/ 1108 /T-III-2/001/2010/2(10) Date : 12 /04/2010
1. P.S. Chief Secretary, Government of West Bengal

2. P.S. to Principal Secretary, Department of Environment, Government of West Bengal
3. P.S. to Addl. Chief Secretary, Department of Forests, Government of West Bengal
4. P.S. to Addl. Chief Secretary, Department of Power & NES, Government of West Bengal
5. P.S. to Principal Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, Government of West Bengal
6. P.S. to Principal Secretary, Department of Urban Development, Government of West Bengal
7. P.S. to Principal Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Government of West Bengal
8. P.S. to Principal Secretary, Department of Sundarban Affairs, Government of West Bengal
9. P.S. to Principal Secretary, Department of Panchayat & Rural Development, Government of West
Bengal
10. P.S. Secretary, Department of Municipal Affairs, Government of West Bengal
Sd-
( S. Moitra )
Annexure 3
Writers’ Buildings, Block – G, 2nd Floor
Kolkata – 700 001
NOTIFICATION
No. EN/3453/T-III-2/001/2010 Date : 16/12/2010
WHEREAS, Government of West Bengal has resolved to prepare State Action Plan
on Climate Change and has constituted a Steering Committee and Drafting
Committee vide notification no. EN/1108/T-III-2/001/2010 dated 12/04/2010,
WHEREAS, the Drafting Committee identified 10 sectors which are most climate
sensitive in the context of West Bengal,
WHEREAS, Sundarbans as one such sector.
Therefore, in partial modification of Notification No.EN/ 3165 /T-III-2/ 001/2010

Date : 16 /11/2010 the Governor is pleased to constitute the following sectoral
committee to prepare the sectoral report on Sundarbans for eventual incorporation
into State Action plan on Climate Change
1. Prof. Amalesh Chowdhury – Member

2. Dr. Asish Kr. Ghosh – Member
3. Dr. Kalyan Rudra – Member
4. Dr. Sugata Hazra – Member
5. Dr. Manash Ghosh – Member
6. Representative of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswa Vidyalaya – Member
7. Representative of IIT Kharagpur
8. Representative of University of Animal & Fishery Science
9. Shri Subhash Chandra Acharyya – Convenor
The sectoral committee may co-opt any member as and when they feel the need for
doing so.
The sectoral committee may discuss with the drafting committee any issues they
consider relevant.
The sectoral committee shall take help of consultants engaged by either the State
Government or any external agency on behalf of State Government in the matter of
preparation of sectoral plan, vulnerability analysis and GHG emission inventory
preparation.
The members of the sectoral committee, excluding the official members, shall be
paid honorarium at a rate of Rs.500/- per sitting.
By order of the Governor,
Sd/-
( K.S. Rajendra Kumar )
Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of West Bengal
2
No. EN/3453/T-III-2/001/2010 /1(9) Date : 16/12/2010
1. Prof. Amalesh Chowdhury, Secretar y, SD Marine Research Institute,

Sagar Island – 743 373
2. Dr. Asish Kr. Ghosh, President, Centre for Environment & Development,
Kolkata.
3. Dr. Kalyan Rudra, Geographer and River Specialist, 453, Dum Dum Park,
Flat-4A, Kolkata – 700 055
4. Dr. Sugata Hazra, Director, School of Oceanographic Studies, Jadavpur
University, Kolkata – 700 032.
5. Dr. Manash Ghosh, Sundarban Development Board
6. Vice Chancellor, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswa Vidyalaya – He is requested
to nominate a official member to function as a member in the sectoral
committee of Sundarbans.
7. Director, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur – 721 302. He is
requested to nominate a official member to function as a member in the
sectoral committee of Sundarbans.
8. Vice Chancellor, University of Animal & Fishery Science, 68, Khudiram Bose
Sarani, Kolkata – 700 037. He is requested to nominate a official member to
function as a member in the sectoral committee of Sundarbans.
9. Shri Subhash Chandra Acharyya, Jt. Project Director (Monitoring and
Evaluation), Sundarban Development Board, Mayukh Bhavan, Kolkata – 700
091
Sd/-
(Debal Ray)
Chief Environment Officer
----------------------------
No. EN/3453/T-III-2/001/2010/2(2) Date :16 /12/2010
Copy forwarded for information to :-
1. The Secretary, Sundarbans Affairs Department

2. The Additional Chief Secretary, Environment Department.
(Debal Ray)

Annexure 4

Writers’ Buildings, Block – G, 2nd Floor
Kolkata – 700 001
NOTIFICATION
No. EN/3528/T-III-2/001/2010 Date : 24/12/2010
WHEREAS, Government of West Bengal has resolved to prepare State Action

Plan on Climate Change and has constituted a Steering Committee and Drafting
Committee vide notification no. EN/1108/T-III-2/001/2010 dated 12/04/2010,
WHEREAS, the Drafting Committee identified 10 sectors which are most

climate sensitive in the context of West Bengal,
WHEREAS, Energy Efficiency as one such sector.
Therefore, in partial modification of Notification No. No. EN/3166/T-III-2/

001/ 2010 Date 16/11/2010 Governor is pleased to constitute the following
sectoral committee to prepare the sectoral report on energy efficiency for eventual
incorporation into State Action plan on Climate Change
1. Representative of State Electricity Distribution Company Limited –

Member
2. Shri Angshuman Majumdar, Divisional Engineer, WBREDA - Member
3. Shri Jay Chakraborty, Divisional Engineer, WBREDA - Member
4. Dr. Tapas Kumar Gupta, Chief Engineer – Member
5. Shri S.P. Gon Chaudhuri, Managing Director, WBGEDCL – Member &
Coordinator
The sectoral committee may co-opt any member as and when they feel the
need for doing so.
The sectoral committee may discuss with the drafting committee any issues
they consider relevant.
The sectoral committee shall take help of consultants engaged by either the
State Government or any external agency on behalf of State Government in the
matter of preparation of sectoral plan.
The members of the sectoral committee, excluding the official members,

shall be paid honorarium at a rate of Rs.500/- per sitting.
By order of the Governor,
Sd/-
( K.S. Rajendra Kumar )
Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of West Bengal

No. EN/3528/T-III-2/001/2010/1(5) Date : 24/12/2010
1. The Chairman & Managing Director, State Electricity Distribution

Company Limited, Bidyut Bhavan, Bidhannagar, Kol – 91 – He is
requested to nominate a official member to function as a member in the
sectoral committee of Sundarbans.
2. Shri Angshuman Majumdar, Divisional Engineer, West Bengal Renewable
Energy Development Authority, Bikalpa Shakti Bhavan, Plot No. J- 1/10,
EP & GP Block, Sector – V, Salt Lake Electronics Complex , Kolkata – 700
091.
3. Shri Jay Chakraborty, Divisional Engineer, West Bengal Renewable
Energy Development Authority, Bikalpa Shakti Bhavan, Plot No. J- 1/10,
EP & GP Block, Sector – V, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Kolkata – 700
091.
4. Dr. Tapas Kumar Gupta, Chief Engineer, West Bengal Pollution Control
Board.
5. Shri S.P. Gon Chaudhuri, Managing Director, West Bengal Green Energy
Development Corporation Ltd., Bikalpa Shakti Bhavan, Plot No. J- 1/10,
EP & GP Block, Sector – V, Salt Lake Electronics Complex, Kolkata – 700
091.
(Debal Ray )
No. EN/3528/T-III-2/001/2010/2(2) Date : 24/12/2010
Copy forwarded for information to :-
1. The Principal Secretary, Power & NES Department

2. The Additional Chief Secretary, Environment Department.
(Debal Ray )

Annexure 5
Proposed Members of the Science Advisory Council

Sl. Members Department/Organisation
No.
Departmental Officials
1. Secretary Deptt. of Environment, GoWB
2. Secretary Deptt. of Sc. & Tech, GoWB
3. Member Secretary West Bengal Pollution Control Board
4. Chief Environmental Officer Deptt. of Environment, GoWB
5. Director Institute of Environmental Studies and Wetland

Management
Non-Official Members
5. Dr. Saroj Sanyal Vice-Chancellor, BCKV
6. Dr.H.K.Mazumdar Director Grade Scientist of IICB, CSIR, GOI
7. Dr.S.P.Sinha Ray Former Member, Central Ground Water Board, GOI and
Chairman, Fluoride Task Force Committee, GoWB
8. Dr.A.K.Raha PCCF, Deptt. of Forest, GoWB
9. Dr.P.Chakrabarti Chief Scientist, Deptt. of Sc. & Tech, GoWB
10. Dr.S.Raha Director, Bose Institute
11. Prof. Sugata Hazra School of Oceanography, Jadavpur University
12. Prof. (Mrs.) S. Choudhury Deptt. of Atmospheric Sciences, Calcutta University
13. Prof. (Mrs.) S. Sen Deptt. of International Relations, Jadavpur University
14. Prof. Sujay Basu Former Head, Deptt. of Electrical Engineering, Javavpur
University and Director, Centre for Energy and
Environmental Management
15. Dr. Abhijit Mitra Deptt. of Marine Sciences, Calcutta University

2012-04 West Bengal Action Plan On Climate Change

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WEST BENGAL ACTION PLAN ON CLIMATE CHANGE 1

West Bengal State Action Plan on

Chapter 1 – Intoduction ..................................................................................................................................................38

Chapter 2 - Process of Preparation ............................................................................................................................40

Chapter 3- West Bengal State Profile........................................................................................................................43

Chapter 4 - Observed Climate and Climate Projections ....................................................................................47

Chapter 5 – Water Resources ........................................................................................................................................52

Chapter 7 – Forests and Biodiversity.........................................................................................................................110

Chapter 8- Human Health ...............................................................................................................................................119

Chapter 9 - Energy Efficiency and renewable Energy .........................................................................................130

Chapter 10: Towards Sustainable Habitats...............................................................................................................140

Chapter 11 - Institute for Climate Change Studies ...............................................................................................158

Chapter 12- Darjeeling Himalayas...............................................................................................................................166

Chapter 13- Sundarbans.................................................................................................................................................206

Key Climate Change Concerns for Sundarbans

Table 12.8: Threatened flora and fauna in the Darjeeling area

Figure 7.1: Forest Cover Map of West Bengal

Box 1: Observed and projected changes in Climate in West Bengal

Approach to the Preparation of the SAPCC

Thereafter 9 committee’s/Working groups were formulated, headed by the the members of

Climate change Concerns and Adaptation Strategies

The Teesta entering West Bengal near Pedong.

zone spring flow is being observed. Further enhance stream flow by

The livestock population in West Bengal is large,

Climate Change Concerns: With increase in

Excess summer temperatures leading to heat

develop hardy cattle and ensure adequate milk production

Biodiversity and Forests

Climate change concerns and opportunities: With increase in precipitation, a shift in

Forests in Darjeeling1 Mangrove forests in Sundarban3

Water borne diseases such as Cholera,

Table 4: Adaptation strategies for the Health sector in West Bengal

Energy efficiency and Renewable energy

Considering that accessibility to electricity drives growth, penetration of electricity in the

urban areas is reported to be treated and disposed in a scientific manner, leading to an

Cyclone Aila from the space

A view of Darjeeling town from the Tea gardens. Source: Wikepedia

Climate change concerns in this district include

The adaptation measures suggested are summarised in Table 6.

Table 6: Adaptation strategies for Darjeeling Himalayan region

Increase in incidences of morbidity and mortality might be registered due to increase

Typical Fauna of SUndarbans

Table 7: Adaptation strategies for Sundarbans

Cross cutting Issues

o Devising strategies (policies/programmes/projects/actions) based on informed

o Atmospheric observations and modelling including climate change modelling,

Setting up monitoring and evaluation framework: Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) of

Building institutional capacities to integrate climate change concerns in development:

o Enhancing energy efficiency;

2. The Process of Preparation

 Constitution of drafting committee

Figure 2.1: Steps of Preparation of WB-SAPCC

Sectoral Committee Sectoral Committee Sectoral Committee Sectoral Committee

Orientation and facilitation workshop

Drafting outline of the papers

Drafting of the background papers

Transposing background paper in

Draft SAPCC Circulated amongst

Finalisation of SAPCC and

3. West Bengal State Profile

On a physiographic basis the state can be

The State has international borders with

Biodiversity and Forests