Chilika Lake: A Natural Marvel of Eastern India




Chilika Lake, also known as Chilika Lagoon, is the largest brackish water lagoon in India and the second-largest in the world. Located on the east coast of India in the state of Odisha, the lake is spread over an area of 1,100 square kilometers and is a natural marvel that attracts tourists from all over the world.

History

The history of Chilika Lake dates back to the 2nd century BC when it was a major port for trade between India and Southeast Asia. It is believed that Kalinga king Kharavela used this port for trading with Java, Sumatra, and Bali. Later, during the medieval period, the lake became a hub for salt production, fishing, and shell crafts. It was also an important route for trade with Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.


Geography

Chilika Lake is situated on the east coast of India, in the state of Odisha. It is connected to the Bay of Bengal by a narrow channel, which is about 32 km long. The lake is separated from the Bay of Bengal by a 60 km long sandbar, which is called the 'mouth of Chilika'. The lake has an average depth of 5 meters and a maximum depth of 15 meters.



Flora and Fauna

Chilika Lake is a biodiversity hotspot, with a rich variety of flora and fauna. The lake is home to over 225 species of fish, 160 species of birds, and a large number of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The lake also has a rich variety of aquatic plants, including seaweeds, sea grasses, and floating plants.

The lake is famous for its Irrawaddy dolphins, which are found only in a few places in the world. The lake is home to around 150 of these dolphins, which are an endangered species. The lake is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, with a large number of migratory birds visiting the lake during the winter months.



Tourism

Chilika Lake is a popular tourist destination, with thousands of tourists visiting the lake every year. The lake offers a wide range of activities, including boating, fishing, birdwatching, and dolphin watching. There are also several islands in the lake, which can be visited by boat.

The lake is surrounded by several small villages, which offer a glimpse into the rural life of Odisha. The villagers are engaged in fishing, salt production, and shell crafts, which are the main sources of their livelihood. The lake also has several temples and shrines, which are visited by pilgrims.

Conservation

Chilika Lake is a fragile ecosystem, which is under threat from various factors, including pollution, siltation, and overfishing. To conserve the lake, the Chilika Development Authority was established in 1982, which is responsible for the management and conservation of the lake. The authority has implemented several measures to protect the lake, including the ban on fishing during the breeding season of the fish and the creation of artificial reefs.

Conclusion

Chilika Lake is a natural marvel that offers a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of India. The lake is a popular tourist destination that offers a wide range of activities for visitors. However, it is also a fragile ecosystem that needs to be protected for the future generations. The conservation measures implemented by the Chilika Development Authority are a step in the right direction and need to be continued to ensure the long-term sustainability of the lake.


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