Kanwar lake, Asias largest freshwater oxbow lake and Bihars only Ramsar site, located in Begusarai district, is facing threat of running dry.
Originally spread over 6,786 hectares, the lake has been a preferred destination for migratory birds and Home to several rare aquatic species. In 1986, the notified it as a protected area. Later, the central government declared it as a sanctuary to stop poaching of birds.
The lake, also known as Kabartal jheel, was declared a Ramsar site in July last year following a sustained campaign by environmentalists from across the world, who hoped that the state government might step in to conserve the wetland once it was designated as a wetland of international importance.
The huge stretch of wetland also absorbs considerable amount of water during the flooding and offers land for cultivation during the summers. About 165 plant species, 394 animal species, including 221 varieties of birds, were recorded to be present around the lake, which is also home to 53 migratory birds, including some rare ones.