Jagatpur Lake/Wetland | |
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![]() Jagatpur Lake | |
Location | Bihar |
Coordinates | 25°20′17″N87°02′20″E / 25.338102417172°N 87.03891003519°E |
Type | Freshwater |
Primary inflows | Ganga River |
Basin countries | India |
Settlements | Naugachia,Bhagalpur |
Jagatpur Lake [1] also known as Jagatpur Wetlands is a large natural wetland located about 12 km north-east of Bhagalpur City in Bihar, near Naugachhia . Locals often call it Jagatpur Jheel. It is situated at Jagatpur Village of Naugachhia Block in Bhagalpur . It is a calm freshwater body, surrounded by green fields and trees, and has become an important place for birds, nature lovers, and researchers. For centuries, it has been a source of water and fishing for local communities. [2]
The lake is part of the Ganga floodplain, so during monsoon it gets filled with fresh water.
It's a floodplain wetland with a rich mosaic of aquatic and terrestrial flora. Notable plants include Eichhornia crassipes (water hyacinth) and Hydrilla verticillata, along with trees like Ficus species, Dalbergia sissoo, Acacia nilotica, and Phoenix dactylifera(Date Palm) lining its banks. This mix of water and greenery makes it a perfect home for both animals and plants. [3]
Jagatpur plays host to a staggering 169–170 bird species, thanks to detailed surveys by ornithologists and local birders. Every winter, migratory birds journey from as far as the Trans-Himalayan ranges, Central Asia, and Siberia to find refuge here. Among its most precious residents are the Greater Adjutants and Lesser Adjutants. Openbill storks, egrets, cormorants, ducks, and herons are other common birds. For bird watchers, it is one of the best places in Bihar. [4]
It is a breeding and nesting ground for both local and migratory birds. It helps keep the balance of nature by supporting biodiversity. It also protects groundwater and helps in controlling floods. It helps preserve biodiversity . [5]
Jagatpur Wetland faces several challenges: [6]
Conservation steps:
The lake is being promoted as a future eco-tourism hub . [1]
Jagatpur Lake plays a vital role in the life and economy of nearby communities. Not only is it a peaceful natural setting loved by locals, but it also serves as an anchor for wildlife—and a growing source of livelihoods. Beyond tourism, Jagatpur Lake helps sustain the local ecosystem and economy in more direct ways. The wetland aids in water retention and groundwater recharge, which supports nearby agriculture and helps regulate monsoon flooding. Moreover, the lake acts as a natural community asset—its health is closely tied to the well-being of surrounding villages, whether through fishing, crop protection by insect-eating birds, or employment generated by conservation and tourism projects. [8] [9]
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