Lake Manchar is a notable Lake located in Pakistan. It holds the distinction of being the largest freshwater lake in the country. The lake is in Sindh and covers an extensive area. Due to its size and ecological significance, it has garnered attention from various environmental organisations.

In this blog, Graana.com has gathered information on Manchar Lake.

History

The origin of Lake Manchar dates back to the 1930s when it was formed due to the construction of the Sukkur Barrage on the Indus River. The barrage was built to control the water flow and facilitate irrigation in the region, ultimately creating the lake. Since then, it has become an essential water resource for agricultural purposes in the surrounding areas.

The lake’s banks boast remarkable archaeological sites, such as Ghazi Shah and Wahi Pandhi Al Murad Mound. Along the river’s edge lie the famous Lal Chatto, Lakhiyo, and Mashak Lohri sites, which are among the oldest in the area, dating back to the Harappan culture.

The lake originated when a branch from the Indus River began flowing through Kashmore and later connected with Hamal Lake through the Main Nara valley. In 2010, the lake experienced flooding and overflowed. However, it has also endured challenges, like complete evaporation in 1958 due to a severe drought.

Degradation of the Environment

Despite being the largest freshwater lake in Pakistan, Lake Manchar has faced numerous challenges over the years. One significant issue is the excessive wastewater inflow and agricultural runoff from nearby towns and farming lands. This pollution has had a detrimental impact on the lake’s water quality and ecosystem.

The inflow of contaminated water has resulted in the proliferation of toxic algae and other harmful substances in the lake, leading to a decline in aquatic life and biodiversity. Additionally, the lake’s water level has fluctuated significantly over time due to irregular water management and climatic variations.

The degradation of Lake Manchar has been an ongoing issue, but its effects have become more noticeable only recently. The reduction in available freshwater resources can be attributed to water diversion from the Indus and decreased storm runoff from the Kirthar mountains.

Additionally, the influx of saline drainage water from agricultural fields in Balochistan and surrounding areas has further worsened the lake’s condition. However, between August 10 and August 23, 2009, there was a brief period when 700 cubic feet per second (20 m3/s) of water was added to the lake through the Indus River.

Issues

Lake Manchar was a significant stopover point for Siberian migratory birds along the Indus flyway. However, their numbers have drastically declined from 25,000 birds in 1988 to only 2,800 birds in 2002. This decline is due to the lake no longer being able to support its primary food source, the lake fish. As a result, saline water reeds have replaced the birds’ habitat.

In the past, the lake served as a significant water source for irrigation, but this has also been significantly reduced. As a consequence, the irrigated area around the lake has diminished. To address the issue of contamination, the construction of the Right Bank Outfall Drain is underway to safeguard the lake’s condition.

Efforts have been made by local authorities and environmental organisations to address these challenges and restore the lake’s health. However, the restoration process has been complex, requiring sustainable solutions to combat pollution and manage water resources effectively.

Lake Manchar is fed by several small streams in the Kirthar Mountains and empties into the Indus River. The lake is home to various fish species, including the endangered Indus catfish. It is also an important breeding ground for migratory birds.

Things to Do at Manchar Lake

Lake Manchar is the largest natural freshwater lake in Pakistan and one of the largest in South Asia. The lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and bird watching. It is also home to several villages and small towns.

Here are some of the things you can do at Manchar Lake:

Fishing

Lake Manchar is home to various fish species, including the endangered Indus catfish. Fishing is a popular activity on the lake, and there are several places where you can rent a boat and go fishing. The best time for fishing is during the monsoon season when the fish are more active.

Boating

Boating is another popular activity on Lake Manchar. You can rent a boat and explore the lake at your own pace. Several boat tours are also available that will take you to some of the most scenic spots on the lake. You can also swim in the lake, but be careful of the strong currents. 

Bird watching

Lake Manchar is a vital breeding ground for migratory birds. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded on the lake, including flamingos, pelicans, and spoonbills. Bird watching is a great way to see the variety of birds that live on the lake. The best time for bird watching is during winter when the birds migrate to the lake. 

Camping

There are several places where you can camp on the shores of Lake Manchar. Camping is a great way to experience the lake’s natural beauty and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Hiking

Several hiking trails lead to the shores of Lake Manchar. Hiking is a great way to explore the surrounding area and get some exercise. The best time for hiking is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild.

Visit Sehwan Sharif

The nearby town of Sehwan Sharif is a popular pilgrimage site for Muslims. Sehwan Sharif is home to the shrine of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, a Sufi saint who is said to have miraculous powers. You can visit the shrine and learn about the history and culture of the region. 

Tips

Here are some tips for planning your trip to Manchar Lake:

• The best time to visit Manchar Lake is winter when the weather is mild.
• If you are planning on fishing, be sure to bring your gear.
• There are several hotels and guesthouses in the area, so you should be able to find a place to stay that fits your budget.
• Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the weather can be hot and sunny.
• Respect the local culture and be mindful of your impact on the environment.

How to reach Manchar Lake?

To reach Manchar Lake from Sukkur City, it takes approximately four hours to travel via Indus Highway and Khairpur Rd. If you are coming from Larkana, take the Indus Highway/N-55 route. Alternatively, if you visit cities like Lahore, Islamabad, or Multan, you can opt for a flight to Sukkur, where PIA operates regular flights.

What activities can you do there?

When the lake is filled with rainwater, it becomes a thriving habitat for thousands of fish. This attracts visitors who enjoy fishing, rowing boats, and savouring fresh fish near the lake.

Conclusion

Lake Manchar is an essential natural resource in Pakistan but faces severe environmental threats. Through coordinated efforts and responsible management, hope exists to preserve and revive this vital freshwater ecosystem for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best time to visit Manchar Lake?

A: The best time to visit Manchar Lake is during the winter when the weather is mild. The lake is also a popular bird-watching destination, so the winters are a good time to see the variety of birds on the lake.

Q: What are the activities that I can do at Manchar Lake?

A: There are many activities that you can do at Manchar Lake, including fishing, boating, bird watching, camping, and hiking. You can also visit the nearby town of Sehwan Sharif, a famous Muslim pilgrimage site.

Q: Where can I stay when I visit Manchar Lake?

A: The area has many hotels and guesthouses, so you should be able to find a place to stay that fits your budget. You can also camp on the shores of the lake.

Q: How do I get to Manchar Lake?

A: The nearest airport is the Sehwan Sharif Airport, 18 kilometres from the lake. You can also reach the lake by road from Karachi or Hyderabad.

Q: What are the things to remember when visiting Manchar Lake?

A: Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the weather can be hot and sunny. You should also be respectful of the local culture and be mindful of your impact on the environment.

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