- The Odisha Wetland Authority has approved the implementation of an integrated management plan for two of its largest lakes namely Chilika and Ansupa lake.
- The plan is intended at strengthening livelihood of thousands of fishermen relying on the two water-bodies.Besides,tourism promotion and conservation of ecology will also be taken up.
- Chilika Lake is India’s largest brackish water lagoon.It lies on the east coast of India in the state of Odisha and is located at the mouth of the Daya River and flowing into the Bay of Bengal.
- The lake is also the second largest coastal lagoon in the world after the New Caledonian barrier reef in New Caledonia.
- Chilika lake was also designated as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention in 1981.It is also home to endangered Irrawaddy dolphins and migratory birds during winter.
- Ansupa lake is Odisha’s largest freshwater lake.The lake is shaped like a horseshoe and is situated on the banks of River Mahanadi.
- Ansupa is famous for its sweet water fish especially labeo bata locally known as pohala.The lake also acts as a shelter for migratory birds in the winter season.
