Loktak Lake

Infobox lake
lake_name = Loktak Lake
image_lake =
caption_lake =
image_bathymetry =
caption_bathymetry =
location = Manipur
coords = coord|24|33|N|93|47|E|region:IN_type:waterbody|display=inline,title
type = fresh water
inflow = Manipur river & many small rivulets
outflow = "none"
catchment =
basin_countries = India
length = 35 km
width = 13 km
area = 287 km²
depth = 2.7 m
max-depth = 4.6 m
volume =
residence_time =
shore =
elevation = 768.5 m
islands = Thanga, Ithing, Sendra islands. Also many floating islands called phumdis
cities = Imphal

Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in northeastern India. It is also called the only "Floating lake" in the world due to the floating Phumdies on it. It is located near Moirang in Manipur state. It was designated as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention on March 23 1990.

It is an ancient lake and plays an important role in the economy of Manipur. It serves as a source of water for hydropower generation, irrigation and drinking water supply. The lake is also a source of livelihood for the rural fisherman who live in the surrounding areas and on "Phumdis" - floating islands, which are actually heterogeneous mass of vegetation, soil, and organic matters at various stages of decomposition.

The Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is the last natural refuge of the Manipur brow-antlered deer ("Cervus eldi eldi") locally known as the SANGAI, is situated in the southeastern region of this lake.The KEIBUL LAMJAO NATIONAL PARK is the only floating National Park in the world.It is situated on phumdies. It is also the home of other endangered species including a species of python ("Python molurus molurus").

Human activities have led to severe pressure on the lake ecosystem.

The lake is managed by the Loktak Development Authority (LDA), which was established in 1987. The LDA produced a management plan in 1993, which emphasized the development of fisheries, agriculture, and tourism.

References

* http://www.loktak.org/Atlas/link.htm