10 Facts About Loktak Lake That You Need to Know.

10 Facts About Loktak Lake- Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and is located in the state of Manipur. It is not just a lake, but a vital source of livelihood for the people living around it. The lake is also a Ramsar site, which is a wetland of international importance. Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, covering an area of approximately 287 square kilometers. In this article, we will discuss 10 interesting facts about Loktak Lake that you should know.

10 Facts About Loktak Lake

Following are 10 facts about loktak lake-

1 Floating Islands

Loktak Lake is famous for its floating islands called ‘phumdis’. These phumdis are made up of vegetation, soil, and other organic matter, and they float on the surface of the lake. The largest floating island is called the Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is the only floating national park in the world.

2 Endangered Species

The Keibul Lamjao National Park is home to the endangered Manipur brow-antlered deer, also known as the Sangai. The Sangai is found only in Manipur, and its habitat is restricted to the floating islands of Loktak Lake.

3 Fishing Community

The fishing community living around Loktak Lake depends on the lake for their livelihood. They use a unique fishing technique called ‘phumdi fishing’, where they move the floating islands and create channels to catch fish.

4 Hydroelectric Power

Loktak Lake is not just a source of livelihood, but it also generates hydroelectric power. The lake has a hydroelectric power station, which generates electricity for the state of Manipur.

5 Biodiversity

Loktak Lake is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The lake has over 233 species of aquatic plants, 425 species of animals, and 100 species of birds. It is also a crucial stopover for migratory birds.

6 Manipuri Culture

Loktak Lake is an integral part of Manipuri culture and mythology. The lake is believed to be the abode of the local deity, and it is also associated with the famous Manipuri dance form, the ‘Pung Cholom’.

7 Source of Irrigation

Loktak Lake is an essential source of irrigation for the surrounding agricultural fields. The lake regulates the flow of water to the fields, and the farmers depend on it for their crops.

8 Water Quality

Loktak Lake’s water quality is under threat due to pollution and human encroachment. The lake is facing severe issues like eutrophication, where the lake’s water quality deteriorates due to excessive nutrients.

9 Tourism

Loktak Lake is a popular tourist destination, and it attracts visitors from all over the world. The lake offers various activities like boating, fishing, and bird watching. The lake is also a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming from all over the world to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, take a boat ride on the lake, and visit the nearby Keibul Lamjao National Park.

10 Conservation Efforts

Several organizations and the government are working towards the conservation of Loktak Lake. The government has initiated the Loktak Lake (Protection) Act, 2006, to protect the lake and its biodiversity.

After reading 10 facts about loktak lake, In conclusion, Loktak Lake is a unique ecosystem with significant ecological and cultural importance. It is an essential source of livelihood for the fishing community, a habitat for endangered species, a source of hydroelectric power, and a vital part of Manipuri culture. However, the lake is facing several challenges, including pollution and human encroachment, which threaten its biodiversity and ecological balance. It is crucial to take measures to protect and conserve Loktak Lake for future generations.

• Kangla Fort, Manipur.

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