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News– A Rs. 188.25 crore five-year rejuvenation plan, inspired by Namami Gange, has been proposed by the Alappuzha District Administration to restore the shrinking Vembanad lake.
About Vembanad Lake
- Description:
- It is the longest lake in India and the largest in the state of Kerala, stretching approximately 96.5 km in length and covering an area of around 2,033 square kilometres.
- It spans across three districts—Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam.
- Local names: The lake is known by various local names: Vembanad Kayal, Vembanad Kol, Punnamada Lake (in the Kuttanad region), and Kochi Lake (in the Kochi region).
- Hydrological importance: Vembanad plays a crucial role in Kerala’s hydrology. It is fed by six major rivers, including the Meenachil, Achankovil, Pamba, and Manimala, and discharges into the Arabian Sea on its western side.
- Ecological significance:
- It forms part of the Vembanad-Kol Wetland, designated a Ramsar Site in 2002 in recognition of its international ecological value.
- The lake supports rich biodiversity and sustains the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, located along its eastern bank. This sanctuary provides a habitat for numerous resident and migratory bird species..
- Cultural significance: Culturally, the lake is renowned for hosting the Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race (Vallam Kali), held annually in August in the Punnamada segment.
