Beas River Freshwater Ecology Punjab Doab

The Beas river, originating at Rohtang Pass and flowing through the Kangra valley into Punjab's Bist Doab between Ropar and Ferozepur, is the defining watercourse of central Punjab, supporting freshwater ecosystems that include mahseer, catla, rohu, and migratory waterfowl in its braided floodplain channels. Beas river islands (diaras) between Mirthal and Pandori support seasonal agriculture and traditional fishing by Maachhi communities who have fished the river for generations. The Beas conservation reserve between Harike and Kapurthala protects a stretch of river ecosystem where the endangered Indus river dolphin (susu) is being monitored and protected by WWF and Punjab Wildlife Department.