A detailed scientific study on how to retain ecological balance and develop biodiversity of the Chilika lake in the perspective of the natural changes and dynamics on its opening mouth to the sea should be conducted, Chief Secretary GC Pati has advised the concerned authorities.
He was discussing restoration and management activities of the lake, which has been declared as “Destination Flyway” by the United Nation’s World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), at a meeting here. The discussions, in which Chief Executive of Chilika Development Authority (CDA) Ajit Kumar Pattanaik presented the updates and proposed action plans, revealed that at present there are four mouths in the Chilika including the old Palur mouth. The other three moths are Gabakunda inlet, Dhalabali inlet and new Phailin inlet (opened after the cyclone Phailin).
The lake is home to about 211 bird species, largest Irrawaddy dolphin population, 217 fish species and more than 30 migratory species. It was stated that specific interventions have been undertaken by the Government during the last few years for understanding the complex ecosystem, modeling of hydrodynamics to retain the optimum salinity gradient of the lake and adaptive restoration planning through wide consultative processes.
Management of the wetland with micro watershed ecological units and empowerment of local communities through capacity building have also been taken up. Strategic partnerships have been made with a number of voluntary and community-based organisations and a close monitoring system has been put in place.
Because of these interventions, there has been a seven-fold increase in the annual fish and prawn landing. At present, the lake is yielding fisheries of worth Rs110 crore per annum. There has been expansion of sea grass meadows and increase in dolphin population and avian fauna.
There has been reappearance of hilsa and other native fish species. Alternative sources of livelihood for local community have also emerged because of biodiversity and livelihood interventions. At present, about Rs40 crore per annum is earned from community-based ecotourism activities.
About 850 boats are being used for dolphin watching and 400 boats used to ferry tourists for bird watching, the meeting was informed. Pati advised the CDA to scale up fishery resources to the tune of Rs200 crore in coming year. Forest & Environment Principal Secretary Raj Kumar Sharma along with senior officers from the concerned departments participated in the discussions.