Source: ETV
Subject: Mapping
Context: Kolleru Lake has gained renewed attention as its traditional black dried fish has emerged as a high-value product in domestic and international markets, supporting hundreds of local families.
About Kolleru Lake:
What it is?
- Kolleru Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India, renowned for its rich biodiversity, fisheries, and role as a critical wetland ecosystem.
Located in: Andhra Pradesh
- Districts: Krishna and West Godavari
Rivers associated:
- Situated in the inter-deltaic plain of the Krishna and Godavari rivers
- Fed by seasonal streams, irrigation canals, and drainage systems connected to both rivers
- Acts as a natural flood-balancing reservoir for Krishna and Godavari
Key geological and physical features:
- Inter-deltaic freshwater basin: Lies between two major river deltas, enabling seasonal water storage and groundwater recharge.
- Shallow wetland system: Characterised by low depth and wide spread, making it ideal for fisheries and bird habitats.
- Flood moderation role: Absorbs excess monsoon flows, reducing downstream flood intensity in coastal Andhra Pradesh.
- Nutrient-rich sediments: Supports high fish productivity and aquatic vegetation due to fertile alluvial deposits.
Significance:
- Ecological importance: Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary (1999) and a Ramsar Wetland (2002), hosting nearly 20 million resident and migratory birds including pelicans, storks and ibises.
- Biodiversity hotspot: Home to around 90 varieties of fish and diverse aquatic flora and fauna.
