Context:
Recently, the National Green Tribunal, Eastern Zone, has directed the Odisha government not to go ahead with ‘illegal’ construction in and around Tampara Lake.
About Tampara Lake
- It is one of the largest fresh water lakes in the State of Odisha.
- The beautiful lake & the nearby Chilika Lagoon highlight the ecological diversity Odisha is blessed with.
- It supports at least 60 species of birds, 46 species of fishes, at least 48 species of phytoplanktons, and more than seven species of terrestrial plants and macrophytes.
- It is an important habitat for vulnerable species such as Cyprinus carpio, common pochard (Aythya ferina), and river tern (Sterna aurantia).
- It is already placed in the Wetland Atlas prepared by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2010.
Key facts about National Green Tribunal
- It has been established under the National Green Tribunal Act 2010.
- New Delhi is the Principal Place of Sitting of the Tribunal and Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai shall be the other four places of sitting of the Tribunal.
- NGT is mandated to make disposal of applications or appeals finally within 6 months of the filing of the same.
FAQs about Odisha’s Tampara Lake
Q1: What recent directive has the National Green Tribunal (Eastern Zone) issued regarding Tampara Lake?
The National Green Tribunal (Eastern Zone) has directed the Odisha government to halt any ‘illegal’ construction activities in and around Tampara Lake.
Q2: What is the significance of Tampara Lake in Odisha?
Tampara Lake stands as one of the largest freshwater lakes in Odisha. Together with the nearby Chilika Lagoon, it showcases the remarkable ecological diversity that blesses the state.
Q3: What is the ecological importance of Tampara Lake?
Tampara Lake is home to a rich variety of species, including 60 species of birds, 46 species of fish, over 48 species of phytoplankton, and more than seven species of terrestrial plants and macrophytes. It provides a critical habitat for vulnerable species such as Cyprinus carpio, common pochard (Aythya ferina), and river tern (Sterna aurantia).
Q4: How has Tampara Lake been recognized at the national level?
Tampara Lake was included in the Wetland Atlas prepared by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in the year 2010, underscoring its importance as a recognized wetland.
Read also:- Lakes- Rivers & Dams
