KAWAR LAKE

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Context

• Kawar Lake is also known as Gokhur Lake.
• It is the largest freshwater oxbow lake in Asia.
• It faces neglect and degradation, posing a significant threat to its ecological balance and the communities dependent on it in Bihar.

Details

Key Features

• It is also known as Kabartal Lake. It is in the Begusarai district of Bihar, India. It covers an area approximately six times that of the Bharatpur Sanctuary.
• It originated as a residual oxbow lake due to the changing course of the Burhi Gandak River. The river is a significant tributary of the Ganges.

Biodiversity and Conservation

• It was declared a Ramsar site in 2020.
• It has a rich diversity of 165 plant and 394 animal species. It sustains the livelihoods of local communities, particularly the Nishad fishing community.

Wetland Conservation in Bihar

• It comprises 4% of its total geographical area comprising wetlands. 
• ISRO’s survey in 2006-07 identified 4,416 wetlands, with 17,582 smaller than 2.5 hectares. 
• The state is actively pursuing wetland conservation through the Bihar State Wetland Authority.
• There are a total of 75 Ramsar sites in India.

Conservation Challenges

• The lake has been experiencing a steady decrease in water levels since 2010. Encroachment, conflicts between farmers and fisherfolk, and illegal activities exacerbate the degradation.
• The lake faces challenges due to policy implementation gaps, illegal activities like migratory bird hunting, and a lack of effective conservation measures.

Urgent Call for Conservation

• Immediate actions such as desilting, afforestation, and strict enforcement of environmental regulations are needed.
• Involving local communities in conservation efforts, raising awareness, and promoting sustainable livelihood practices are essential.
• Comprehensive wetland management policies focusing on sustainable practices and protecting the endangered species are crucial.
• Effective collaboration between governmental authorities, environmental experts, and local communities is paramount in fostering a collective approach to address the lake's multifaceted challenges.

Conclusion

Despite the current environmental challenges, a concerted effort to prioritize conservation, sustainable management, and community engagement can help preserve Kawar Lake's ecological integrity.