Bhubaneswar: The State Wetlands Authority today accorded its seal of approval for the integrated plans as well as sanctioned funds for the overall development of Odisha’s three major wetlands.
A high level meeting of the State Wetlands Authority was held today at the Lok Seba Bhawan (State Secretariat) here. Discussions were held on the three main wetlands of Odisha. They are Chilika Lake, Bhitarakanika and Anshupa Lake. The significant meeting discussed about the safety and security, conservation, integrated management and bio-diversity of the three wetlands.
The meeting was presided over by Odisha Forest & Environment Minister Bikram Keshari Arukh.
Funds were allocated for the development of the three wetlands and the people residing in the respective peripheral areas.
The outcome of the meeting revealed that a five-year integrated plan has been charted out for the development of Chilika Lake. A budgetary allocation of Rs 158 crore was duly approved. The implementation will provide livelihood support to about 2 lakh fishermen residing in 151 villages around Chilika Lake. Besides, the environment of the lake will also be at balance and well protected.
Also a five-year integrated plan has been charted out for the development of Anshupa Lake. A budgetary allocation of Rs 21.23 crore has been approved today for the purpose. This will benefit about 250 fishermen residing in the nearby two villages.
The meeting also passed course of action for the Bhitarakanika area. It will benefit over 2 lakh villagers of 410 villages along the 672 km long patch around it.