On eastern coasts of Odisha, Chilika Lake is heaven and the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia. This hotspot of biodiversity is home to a whole world of rare plants and animals, along with cultural, ecological, and economic riches. Through centuries, this lake has endowed its own ethnographic beauty and mystery. It is what has currently drawn researchers and visitors.
Special Features of Chilika Lake
Stretching over 1,100 square kilometers and covering three Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam districts, it runs into the Bay of Bengal. Thus, it harbors a unique blend of saline and freshwater ecosystem. It is now declared as Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, which endows countless life forms, hence the world’s treasure.
Main Highlights of Chilika Lake
1. Endangered Wildlife Haven
Here, at least 160 different species of birds are found in this winter migration season. Flamingos, herons, and sandpipers collectively give the lake the reputation of a stronghold of bird-watching sites.Besides that the lake is home to the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins, sighted mostly around Satapada. They tell the wits of mankind.
2. The Kalijai Island Enigma
Kalijai Island enhances the sacred meaning to Chilika because it has the famous temple of the Goddess Kalijai. According to legend, a young girl named Jaai perished in a storm while traveling to the island, and her spirit is said to watch over fishermen and visitors.
3. The Hidden Sea Mouth: Muhan
At a small distance southwards to Satapada lies a narrow canal called Sea Mouth, beyond which the lake enters the Bay of Bengal. It changes position as per tidal flow and deposition of sand, thus adding dynamism to the ecosystem of the lake.
4. Unique Ecosystem
The distinct ecosystem of Chilika is Attached with numerous aquatic life forms ranging from fishes, crabs, and even prawns, and directly or indirectly benefits the local livelihood of many people around it. It acts as a natural filter for maintaining the quality of the waters as well as preventing coastal erosion.
5. Mangalajodi: Paradise for Birding
Mangalajodi presents a case of the best sustainable tourism, as the place is a little village on the northern edge of Chilika where local villagers enthusiastically take up the role of guides and conservationists for birdwatching visitors.
Cultural Importance
Traditionally, Chilika is woven into the fabric of the people. The lake is the lifeblood of Fisher communities that celebrate festivals such as Makara Sankranti with great zeal along its waters. Kalijai Temple at the isle is one such example that forms part of the spirituality of the Odia community.
Challenges for Chilika Lake
Pollution and Encroachment: Different types of effluents, industrial and agricultural runoff, degrade the lake’s biodiversity. Salinity Changes: Human and natural phenomena make a disrupted saline-fresh balanced state that negatively affects that ecosystem’s delicate balance. Tourism Pressure: The unregulated tourism heavily damages the habitat, especially in sensitive zones like Satapada.
Chilika Lake is being preserved by different ways:
The Chilika Development Authority (CDA) has been actively working to preserve and rejuvenate the lake through habitat improvement, pollution control and community engagement initiatives.
Best Time To Visit
November to February, bird migration season. Ways to Reach: For the nearest railway station and the airport, Bhubaneswar is about 120 km away from this lake.
Visitors Must: Birdwatching at Mangalajodi Dolphin Spotting at Satapada Visiting the Kalijai Temple Exploring the villages for some local seafood and handicrafts.
