The Site is a man-made wetland which was created primarily for irrigation through the construction of Tawa Dam. It is located within Satpura Tiger Reserve, in the Central Indian Highlands. The largest protected area in Madhya Pradesh, the Site supports 57 fish species, 21 mammals, over 280 migratory birds, and a rich diversity of aquatic plants. Notably, it is an important fish spawning ground, hosting indigenous species such as the vulnerable common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and shark catfish (Wallago attu). In addition, the Site harbours the state fish of Madhya Pradesh, the tor mahseer (Tor tor), which is revered as a “god fish” by local communities. The Site and its environs also provide habitat to the Indian giant squirrel (Ratufa indica), which is endemic to India. Alongside its ecological functions, the Site is a popular tourist destination for recreational activities such as boating and camping.