Source: IE
Context: Wular Lake, India’s largest freshwater lake in Jammu & Kashmir, is facing shrinkage and siltation, raising serious flood risks for the Kashmir Valley.
About Wular Lake:
- Located in: Situated in Bandipore district of Jammu & Kashmir, approximately 50 km northwest of Srinagar.
- River fed: Fed by the Jhelum River, playing a vital role in the hydrology of the Kashmir Valley.
- Lake formation: Formed due to tectonic activity and believed to be a remnant of the ancient Satisar Lake.
- Unique features of the lake:
-
- Largest freshwater lake in India and the second largest in Asia, spanning 200 sq. km.
- Lies at an altitude of 1,580 m at the foothills of Haramuk Mountain.
- Hosts Zaina Lank, an artificial island built by King Zainul-Abi-Din.
- Acts as a natural flood absorption basin for the Kashmir Valley.
- Home to rich biodiversity, including Himalayan monal, short-toed eagle, black-eared kite, and many migratory birds.
- Contributes to 60% of total fish production in the region.
- Recognition: Declared a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 1990.
