Global Fisheries Congress Addresses Urgent Need to Tackle Vembanad Lake Degradation

by Fishery News
Published: Last Updated on

The upcoming International Fisheries Congress and Expo at the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (Kufos) from January 12 will feature a dedicated session addressing the degradation of the Vembanad lake ecosystem. Urgency surrounds the issue, as highlighted by Kufos Vice-Chancellor T. Pradeepkumar, emphasizing the need to tackle the century-long decline.

A recent five-year study led by V.N. Sanjeevan and his team at the Centre for Aquatic Resources Management and Conservation at Kufos revealed an alarming 85% reduction in the lake’s water retention capacity over the past 120 years. Massive encroachments and ecosystem destruction are identified as primary factors contributing to this decline. The carrying capacity at Mean Sea Level in the lake’s south and central sectors has seen an 85.63% decrease, dropping from 2677.50 MCM in 1930 to 384.66 MCM in 2020.

The lake, once spanning 365 sq. km in 1900, has now shrunk to 206.40 sq. km, accompanied by a drastic reduction in average depth. In the south and central sectors, depths have plummeted from 8-9 meters in 1930 to 1.8 meters (Thanneermukkom to Kuttanad – 78.82% depth loss) and 2.87 meters (Thanneermukkom to Kochi Port – 66.34% depth loss). Heavy siltation and direct sediment-laden water reaching the lake, along with wetland filling, are cited as contributors to this decline.

The study also highlights a concerning drop in fish species, from 150-200 identified species in the 1950s to below 100 today. Iconic species like pearl spot, freshwater prawn, mullet, crab, anchovy, salmon, silver belly, sole fish, and shellfish are particularly affected due to silt accumulation, causing a significant decline in the fishery wealth of Kerala’s backwaters.

Vice-Chancellor Pradeepkumar believes that a combination of regulatory measures, community engagement, and sustainable practices can reverse the degradation trends and secure the future of Vembanad lake. He stresses the crucial need for collaboration among international bodies, government agencies, local communities, and environmental organizations to implement and sustain measures that will preserve the lake’s biodiversity and ecological integrity.

You may also like

Leave a Comment

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

Shares