Conservation Efforts in Chilika Lake, Odisha: A Success Story

Strategic Insights -

The Chilika Lake in Odisha, India, is one of the largest brackish water lakes in the world and a vital wetland ecosystem. To conserve this ecosystem, the Chilika Development Authority (CDA) has undertaken various measures, including excavation of feeder channels, de-weeding of water hyacinth, and dredging of lead channels. Additionally, bird monitoring and conservation programs are being implemented at Nalaban and Mangalajodi important bird congregation areas. The construction of fishing jetties, boat sheltering yards, and community halls for fishers has also been taken up, along with the plantation of mangroves in the outer channel of the lake.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Chilika Development Authority (CDA) has implemented several measures to conserve the Chilika Lake ecosystem, including excavation of feeder channels, de-weeding of water hyacinth, and dredging of lead channels.
  • Bird monitoring and conservation programs are being implemented at Nalaban and Mangalajodi important bird congregation areas.
  • Construction of fishing jetties, boat sheltering yards, and community halls for fishers has been undertaken to support the local fishing community.
  • The plantation of mangroves has been carried out in the outer channel of the lake near the villages Sipakuda and Gabakunda.
  • Regular monitoring of the water quality of the Chilika Lake is being done at 33 predefined stations spread over four sectors of the lake.
  • Proactive measures have been taken to control human-induced pollution and restore ecological balance in the wetlands.
  • The CDA has implemented a Standard Operating Procedure for dolphin watching to reduce the impact of tourism on biodiversity.
  • A high-level committee has been formed by the Puri District Authority to suggest the carrying capacity for boats plying in the Chilika outer channel.
  • More than 152 square kilometers of gherries have been removed from Chilika during joint enforcement drives, restoring the sea grass ecosystem.
  • The Ministry has provided funds for Chilika Lake conservation and management under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems and Development of Wildlife Habitats.
  • Local fishing communities have been involved in creating awareness on dolphin conservation, migratory bird protection, and olive ridley conservation during the nesting season.

Statistics:

  • More than 152 square kilometers of gherries have been removed from Chilika Lake.
  • 33 predefined stations are being used to monitor the water quality of the Chilika Lake.
  • 152.93 hectares (ha) of Chilika Lake have been affected by human-induced pollution, according to the Chilika Development Authority (CDA).
  • The CDA has removed 103,509.92 metric tons of debris from the lake during the period from 2019 to 2020.

Sources:

  • Government of India, Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, Government of Odisha, and Chilika Development Authority (CDA).
  • UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE, SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH, written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha.