Comprehensive management action plan for conservation of Ousteri lake, Puducherry
This is Comprehensive Management Action Plan (CMAP) for Conservation of the Ousteri lake prepared by Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) details various conservation and management interventions to be taken up for long-term sustainability of this lake.
Wetlands in the urban areas have always been exploited for several purposes due to anthropogenic activities. However, such activities may lead to alteration of wetland characteristics and thus cause changes in species composition and density. The Ousteri Lake (Oussudu Eri in Tamil) is the most important fresh-water lake of Puducherry region. Located approximately 10 km west of Puducherry town, the lake is a major wintering wintering ground for a large number of migratory birds. The lake is rich in flora and fauna and is known to provide several ecological services including recharging
underground aquifers and providing several livelihood options for the local community. However, recently the lake and its surrounding are facing threats and pressures from several anthropogenic activities (encroachment, poaching and pollution) including rapid
urbanizations and infrastructure developments in the immediate vicinity of the lake. Considering the importance of this wetland ecosystem, Government of Puducherry requested Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) to prepare a Comprehensive Management Action Plan (CMAP) for Conservation of the Ousteri lake so that various conservation and management interventions can be taken up for long-term sustainability of this lake.