Aquatourism in floodplain wetlands as a potential alternative livelihood option for the fisherfolks - A case study of Deepor beel in Assam

Abstract

Wetlands offer a range of recreational activities and hence, they have great potentials to attract tourists. The aquatourism in wetlands is an upcoming avenue for resource generation. Assam, being the hub of floodplain wetlands has the great opportunity to use these resources as attractive tourist spots. Deepor beel near the Guwahai city harbours one of the largest concentration of aquatic birds in Assam. The neighbouring hills and forests are the home of many endangered and rare species of animals and insects. All these factors could make the beel an important tourist destination. Fishermen can be involved in the enterprise which can upplement their livelihood. Primary survey showed that fisheries is the major occupation of most of the fishers households of the beel. Majority of them don't possess agricultural land and livestock. On the other hand rimary survey also indicated that at present the students, Govt. employees, Businessmen, Pensioner, Auto rickshaw driver/owner were the major group of visitors of the beel. Travel Cost Method was used to estimate the economic use values associated with Deepor beel ecosystems that are used for recreation. Family size and monthly income were found to be highly significant factors in explaining the variances of number of visits. The estimated consumer surplus was found to be Rs.160/visitor and the tourism value was estimated to be Rs. 16 lakh. However, this value could go up substantially if proper infrastructure put in place. Visitors suggested a couple of measures to enhance the tourism value. Fishers can be employed in various sectors of aquatourism like boating, managing parking lots, transporting visitors from city by non-polluting vehicles like e-rickshaws, establishing eateries, input and service providers for angling etc. The arrangement can considerably reduce the fishing pressure on the beel and enhance their livelihood status. The authority is trying to develop the core area of the beel as wild life sanctuary which is a welcome step towards enhancing tourism value. The fishing pressure from the core areas can be lessen by employing the fishermen in this potential sector of aqua-tourism.