The historic Laukhowa Beel of Gauripur, Dhubri (not to be confused with Laokhowa WLS), once a vibrant wetland ecosystem and a cradle of Goalpariya folk songs, is today facing severe degradation due to encroachment, poor management and neglect. 

• The beel holds deep emotional and cultural significance because it inspired Padma Shri Pratima Barua Pandey, the legendary queen of Goalpariya folk music, whose songs vividly described its natural charm.

Cultural and Ecological Significance

• Spread originally over 300 bighas, Laukhowa Beel was once rich with fish, tortoises, aquatic flowers and hundreds of migratory birds, especially during winter. 
• During the era of Raja Prabhat Chandra Barua, the wetland flourished as an ecological haven. 
• The beel also formed part of the broader riverine–wetland network that supports Assam’s biodiversity.

Reasons for Decline

• After the Assam State Acquisition of Zamindaris Act, 1954, most estate lands were lost.
• Successors of the Gauripur Royal Estate lacked financial capacity to manage the beel.
• The wetland was leased to fish traders, leading to unregulated exploitation.
• Over time, encroachment consumed nearly half of its original area.
• Lack of scientific wetland management accelerated its ecological decline.
  

Demand for Revival

Local residents, conservationists and cultural groups are urging the State government to:

• Acquired the beel, similar to the acquisition of Hawa Mahal at Gauripur.
• Restore the wetland through scientific conservation under frameworks like Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017.
• Develop it as a cultural-ecological heritage site preserving the legacy of Pratima Barua Pandey.
• Promote sustainable tourism and local livelihoods while ensuring ecological restoration.

Reviving Laukhowa Beel would not only protect a threatened wetland but also preserve a priceless cultural memory for future generations.

Statement-Based MCQ

Consider the following statements regarding Laukhowa Beel of Assam:

1. Laukhowa Beel originally spanned more than 300 bighas and was known for its rich fish and bird diversity.
   
2. It is historically associated with the folk music of Padma Shri Pratima Barua Pandey.
   
3. The Assam State Acquisition of Zamindaris Act, 1954, played a role in changes in land ownership around the beel.
   
4. The beel is located near the Kalahi river, which forms its primary water source.
   

Which of the above statements are correct?
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1, 3 and 4 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: A

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