Manchar Lake: Major tourist attraction in Sindh needs attention

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The largest shallow fresh water lake of the country, Manchar Lake is situated at a distance of 18 kilometers from Sehwan Sharif on west side of the River Indus, in District Jamshoro. 

Acclaimed as one of the largest lakes of South Asia, it is one of the major tourist attractions in the province of Sindh. The area of the lake rise and fall with the change if seasons from little as 350 kilometers to as high as 520 kilometers. 

The lake accumulates water from numerous brooks in the Kirthar Mountains and empties them into the Indus River. Manchar is synthetic lake, created in 1930, when the Sukkur barrage was constructed on River Indus. It is sustained by two canals, the Aral and the Danister from the river Indus. 

The lake plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and economy. It not only provides water for drinking and agriculture in nearby villages but is also home to 30-40 species of fish, supporting the livelihood of local fishermen. 

Additionally, during the winter months, it attracts migratory birds from around the world, particularly Siberia, making it a key habitat for wildlife and a destination for bird watchers. 

There have been media reports of the Manchar Lake water having converted from fresh water to toxic saline water leading to destruction of all species. The nearby agricultural lands are reportedly losing fertility while the lake water could no longer be used for drinking and domestic purposes. 

The authorities are being urged to take care of the lake whose aquifer has been polluted due to penetration of sewerage, urea and other chemicals in sub soil water which has caused health hazards for the area population.