File:Loktak Lake 01.png

English: The Keibul Lamjao Conservation Area is of superlative natural beauty and provides some of the most spectacular scenery on earth. It is located in the state of Manipur which is also called the Switzerland of east and is famous for many peculiar features. Adding more to its beauty like a sparkling diamond amongst the pearls, a beautiful lake known as “Loktak Lake” is situated in the north of Keibul Lamajo Conservation area. Loktak (LOK = stream + TAK = the end) is the journey end of several streams and rivers. Loktak looks like a vast sheet of water reflecting light like a mirror. It is the largest fresh water lake in North Eastern India. The Keibul Lamjao Conservation Area represents an extraordinary story of natural antiquity, diversity, beauty and human attachment. Keibul Lamjao Conservation Area (KLCA) comprises of a core area of Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP) (40 sq km) and a buffer of Loktak Lake (140 sq km) and Pumlen Pat (43 sq. km). KLCA is still under the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There are 14 hills varying in size and elevation, appearing as islands, in the southern part of the lake. The most prominent of them are Sendra, Ithing and Thanga islands. The lake is rich in biodiversity and has been designated as a wetland of International Importance under RAMSAR Convention in 1990. People of Manipur are socially, economically, culturally and ecologically connected with the Loktak Lake and Keibul Lamjao National Park. The lake has been the source of water for domestic generation of hydro-electric power, irrigation, habitat for several plants used as food, fishing ground for local people, fodder, fuel, medicines, biodiversity, recreation, etc. Hence, Loktak Lake has been referred to as the ‘lifeline of Manipur’. But the lake is facing problems relating to Eutrophication and other issues due to many reasons including anthropologic sources. Lastly it's really a great opportunity for letting me express my interest on this wetland. It really needs our eyes mostly from outside our state and country in conserving such a wonderful wetland. Thank you!