Vembanad Lake

15 Nov 2024 14:54:22 pm

Tags : Vembanad Lake

Topic: Lakes

Why in the news?

Stating that Vembanad Lake is facing an ecological crisis, the Agriculture Minister has said that a scientific approach should guide the water body\'s conservation efforts.
He was inaugurating a one-day workshop on the rejuvenation and conservation of Vembanad Lake organized by the Alappuzha district administration.

Source: The Hindu

About Vembanad Lake:

It is the largest lake in Kerala and the longest Lake in India.
It is also known as Vembanad Kayal, Vembanad Kol, Punnamada Lake (in Kuttanad) and Kochi Lake (in Kochi).
It has its source in four rivers i.e. Meenachil, Achankovil, Pampa and Manimala.
It is separated from the Arabian Sea by a narrow barrier island and is a popular backwater stretch in Kerala.
Vallam Kali (i.e Nehru Trophy Boat Race) is a Snake Boat Race held every year in the month of August in Vembanad Lake.
In 2002, it was included in the list of wetlands of international importance, as defined by the Ramsar Convention.
The Government of India has identified the Vembanad wetland under the National Wetlands Conservation Programme.
The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is located on the east coast of the lake.

National Wetland Conservation Programme:

It was launched in 1985.
It seeks to address the mounting threats to these fragile wetland ecosystems and promote their conservation.
Furthermore, it aligns with international efforts to protect wetlands, including designating certain sites as Ramsar Sites, signifying their global significance.
The key objectives of NWCP includes:
- Identification and Assessment: The program involves the identification and delineation of wetlands across India. This process includes surveys and scientific assessments to categorize wetlands based on their ecological, hydrological, and socio-economic significance.
- Conservation and Management: Once identified, the wetlands are subjected to conservation and management measures to prevent degradation. These actions include habitat restoration, controlling pollution, and managing water resources sustainably.
- Capacity Building: The program emphasizes capacity building at the local, state, and national levels. Training and awareness programs are conducted to involve local communities and stakeholders in wetland conservation efforts.
- Research and Monitoring: Ongoing research and monitoring activities are crucial for understanding the dynamic nature of wetlands and assessing the effectiveness of conservation measures.
- Legal Framework: The NWCP supports the development and enforcement of legal and policy frameworks for wetland conservation and protection.