Wular Lake Latest News
A carpet of pink and green lotus beds resurfaces in Jammu & Kashmir's Wular lake after nearly 25 years since the catastrophic 1992 floods.
About Wular Lake
- It is the largest freshwater lake in India and the second largest freshwater lake in Asia.
- Location: It is located in the Bandipore district of Jammu and Kashmir.
- It is fed by the Jhelum River.
- The lake lies at an altitude of 1,580 m on the foothills of Haramuk Mountain.
- It is spread over a total area of 200 sq.km., covering almost 24 km in length and 10 km in breadth.
- The lake basin was formed as a result of tectonic activity.
- It is also said to be a remnant of Satisar Lake that existed in ancient times.Â
- This lake also has a small is land in its centre called the ‘Zaina Lank’. This island was constructed by King Zainul-Abi-Din.
- In 1990, it was designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.
Ecological Significance of Wular Lake
- The area is important for wintering, staging and breeding birds.
- Fauna: Terrestrial birds observed around the lake include the black-eared kite, Eurasian sparrow hawk, short-toed eagle, Himalayan golden eagle, Himalayan monal, etc.
- It is an important habitat for fish, accounting for 60 percent of the total fish production within the state.
Source: IE
Wular Lake FAQs
Q1: Which river passes through Wular Lake?
Ans: Jhelum River
Q2: What is the largest saltwater lake in India?
Ans: Sambhar Lake