Biodiversity Versus Irrigation: The Case of Keoladeo National Park

Keoladeo National Park, a man-made biodiversity hotspot in India's arid landscape, faces ongoing conflict between its ecological needs and surrounding agricultural water demands. Designated as both a Ramsar site (1981) and World Heritage Site (1985), the park is renowned for supporting critical species like the Siberian crane. The study highlights two dimensions of this conflict: one widely publicized, involving seasonal water allocation, and another persistent but less visible issue tied to local irrigation demands in Bharatpur district. The research underscores the tension between conserving a globally significant wetland and meeting the agricultural needs of nearby communities, reflecting broader challenges in balancing biodiversity preservation with rural development.

Chauhan, M. (2020). Biodiversity Versus Irrigation: The Case of Keoladeo National Park. Water Conflicts in India, 14–20. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780367817671-4