J&K’s Mansbal lake starts hosting migratory birds again
Manasbal Lake in Kashmir is experiencing an ecological revival, evidenced by the return of various migratory bird species. Conservation efforts, including dredging and weed removal, have significantly improved the lake's water quality.
Why it matters
The recovery of the lake demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted environmental restoration projects in preserving local biodiversity.
Manasbal Lake, the country’s deepest freshwater lake in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, is on the path of ecological recovery with the return of migratory birds.
The lake is 43-feet deep with a length and breadth of 3.5 km and 1.5 km, respectively. Locals are upbeat about the uptick in the migratory birds between December 2025 and January 2026.
“The return of migratory birds prompted the Wullar-Manasbal Development Authority (WMDA) to hold a bird watching festival in the winter. Many rare species were sighted by the birdwatchers,” said Chief Executive Officer of the WMDA Ahsanul Haq Chishti.
According to official data, the Mansbal lake was home to more than 46 species of birds belonging to 23 families, including Mallard, White Headed Duck, Eurasian Hoopee, Eurasian Collared Dove, Lesser Pied Kingfisher, Golden Eagle, Grey Backed Shrike, Tickell’s Thrush etc.
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