Water Quality, Biodiversity and Livelihood Issues: A Case Study of Chilika Lake, India

The water quality and ecosystem characteristics of Chilika Lake of India deteriorated drastically consequent to diverse human-induced and natural phenomena affecting severely the species composition and fish landing. The series of ecorestoration measures undertaken to mitigate hydro-biological challenges and restore a sustainable fishery has enhanced the fish yield considerably and culminated in exclusion of this highly productive Ramsar site from the Montreux Record (sites in danger). Enforcement of a holistic and effective management strategy would further enrich water quality, conserve biodiversity and provide sustainable livelihood to the fisher folks of this largest brackish water lagoon of Asia in future years.