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11th July 2025 (15 Topics)

Revival of Lotus in Wular Lake

Context:

After a 30-year disappearance due to a devastating 1992 flood, lotus flowers have reappeared in Wular Lake, Kashmir, following extensive desilting and restoration efforts by the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA).

Wular Lake:

  • Located in Bandipora district of Jammu & Kashmir, it is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia.
  • It is a Ramsar site and plays a vital role in the hydrology of the Jhelum River basin.
  • The lake serves important ecological functions, including flood control, groundwater recharge, and habitat provision for biodiversity.

1992 Flood Impact:

  • A severe flood in 1992 led to the deposition of large silt quantities, burying lotus seeds and hampering water flow.
  • This caused the disappearance of lotus plants, traditionally harvested for food and income.

WUCMA’s Restoration Efforts:

  • The Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA) undertook desilting and dredging operations beginning in 2020.
  • Around 79 lakh cubic metres of silt have been removed so far.
  • Lotus seed dispersal and natural regrowth have been facilitated, reviving the aquatic plant population.

Ecological and Economic Significance:

  • The lotus stem (Nadru) is a culinary delicacy in Kashmir and supports local livelihoods.
  • The revival enhances biodiversity, water quality, and provides seasonal employment from September to March.
  • Additional initiatives include retention basin construction on tributaries to prevent further siltation.

Conservation Importance:

  • The event underlines the role of wetlands in climate resilience and biodiversity conservation.
  • It demonstrates positive ecological outcomes from wetland restoration projects, making it significant for both environment and economy.

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