Ganga Prasad Lake, also known as Ganga Prasad Jheel, is a perennial wetland located in Gopalpur block, Naugachia subdivision, Bhagalpur district, Bihar, India. [1][2] It lies in the Anga region of Bihar.This natural water body maintains water throughout the year and serves as a significant ecological habitat, recognized as one of the premier bird watching destinations in the region, particularly known for supporting migratory bird populations including the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork. The lake is part of the complex network of wetlands that characterize the floodplains of the region, as documented in Bihar's National Wetland Atlas. Its perennial nature makes it particularly valuable for supporting year-round wildlife populations and continuous ecological functions.[3][4]
The lake is situated in Gopalpur block of Naugachia subdivision in Bhagalpur district, Bihar. The wetland is positioned within the fertile floodplains of the Middle Ganga River Basin, approximately 20-25 kilometers from Bhagalpur city center. The area experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, which significantly influences the water levels and ecological dynamics of the lake.
The region is part of the broader Ganga-Kosi river floodplains, which have been recognized for their ecological importance in supporting diverse wetland ecosystems.[5]
Hydrology
Ganga Sagar Lake is a perennial wetland that maintains water throughout the year, making it a reliable habitat for both resident and migratory bird species. While water levels fluctuate seasonally, the lake retains substantial water even during dry months, distinguishing it from many seasonal wetlands in the region. During the monsoon season (June-September), the lake receives additional water from rainfall and possible overflow from nearby rivers and channels connected to the Ganga river system, while maintaining a consistent water body during the dry season (October-May).[6]
Ecology and Biodiversity
Avifauna
Ganga Sagar Lake serves as a crucial habitat for both resident and migratory bird species, making it one of the important bird watching destinations in the Bhagalpur region. The wetland is part of the broader ecosystem that supports the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork (Leptoptilos dubius), locally known as "Garuda".[7]
The region around Bhagalpur, including wetlands like Ganga Sagar Lake, has witnessed a remarkable conservation success story. The Greater Adjutant population in Bhagalpur has increased from 78 birds in 2006-07 to more than 600 in 2023-24, with nesting sites expanding to 125 during the 2024 breeding season.[8]
Conservation Significance
The Bhagalpur floodplains, which include Ganga Sagar Lake, have been recognized as the third-most-popular breeding ground for the endangered Greater Adjutant stork globally, after Assam and Cambodia.[9] The Kadwa Koshi Diara floodplains in Bhagalpur district have been included in the list of "Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures" (OECMs), recognizing their importance for wildlife conservation.
Bird Watching Tourism
Ganga Sagar Lake has gained recognition as an excellent bird watching destination, similar to other renowned wetlands in the region. The lake's perennial nature makes it particularly attractive for bird watching throughout the year, as it consistently supports diverse avian species. The area supports both resident species that depend on the consistent water availability and migratory species, with winter months being particularly rewarding for bird watchers when additional migratory species arrive from northern regions.
The success of community-based conservation efforts in the region has been documented extensively, with local communities actively participating in protecting nesting sites and monitoring bird populations.[10]
Environmental Challenges
Like other wetlands in Bihar, Ganga Sagar Lake faces multiple environmental pressures including overfishing, encroachments, and water quality issues. A NITI Aayog report had identified Bihar among states requiring improved water management systems.[11]
Conservation Framework
The wetland falls under the jurisdiction of the Bihar State Wetland Authority (Bihar Wetland Development Authority), constituted in 2020 to formulate policies for conservation and sustainable management of wetlands in the state.[12] The authority operates under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules 2017, which provide a framework for integrated wetland management.
Bihar has been actively working to expand wetland conservation, with the state government proposing several wetlands including sites in Bhagalpur district for Ramsar designation.[13]
Economic and Social Importance
Livelihood Support
The lake provides livelihood opportunities for local communities through fishing activities and supports agricultural practices in the surrounding areas through seasonal flooding and groundwater recharge.
Eco-tourism Potential
Given its recognition as a bird watching destination and its role in supporting endangered species, Ganga Sagar Lake has significant potential for sustainable eco-tourism development that could provide additional income sources for local communities while promoting conservation awareness.
↑ Mishra, Arvind (2021). "Status and Distribution of Greater Adjutant Storks (Leptoptilos dubius) in the Ganga and Kosi River Floodplains Near Bhagalpur, Bihar". Academia.edu. Retrieved 2025.
This page is based on this Wikipedia article Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply. Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.
