PONDA: The picturesque Moingal Lake, also known as Moingal Tollem, located in Shiroda, Ponda, is on its way to being officially declared a Wetland.
This proposed designation comes as part of the government’s initiative to safeguard the lake’s ecological balance, preserve biodiversity, and maintain its role as a habitat for migratory birds and various wildlife.
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If approved, Moingal Lake will join the ranks of Udden, Dhulpe (Chicongal), and Tarvalem lakes, all from the Shiroda village, with Tarvalem already finalised as a Wetland.
The lake is the main source of irrigation and drinking water in the Taravalle ward of Shirodaward and also the nearby Chunnat ward of the village. “Though most people in Shiroda have tap connections, the lake is beneficial as it charges the water table and our wells do not go dry in summer, when there is less water supplied by the PWD,” said Amit Shirodkar, chairman of the Shiroda Biodiversity Mangement Committee.
Sunil Naik, Deputy Sarpanch of Shiroda, highlighted the majestic beauty of Moingal Lake, surrounded by hillocks on three sides and a constructed bundh on the fourth side for water regulation.
“The lake which is believed to be around seven metres deep never goes dry; hence, it has to be preserved and protected,” he said while adding that the lake irrigates various bhagayats and kulaghars as well.
“This lake is also visited by many beautiful migratory birds which is so wonderful to see, and a lot of animals depend on it for their survival,” said Naik.
The proposed notification specifies that Moingal Tollem covers an area of 2,717 sq mts, with a Zone of Influence extending over 64,129 sq mts, including a Buffer Zone of 50 mts.
The Buffer Zone comprises 22 survey numbers covering 35,516 sq mts, including roads and a nullah.
Additionally, there is a Zone of Influence beyond the Buffer Zone, covering 28,613 sq mts, including roads and nullah, with 40 survey numbers.
