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Vellayani Lake: A Lifeline for Our Community
Vellayani Lake: A Lifeline for Our Community
One morning at Vellayani Lake, I walked along the banks and saw people from the local community gathering lotus and water lily leaves. They were busy collecting these leaves, which are used in everyday life—as a natural option for food packaging, in flower shops, and even in temples for devotional offerings. Vellayani Lake is more than just a body of water. It is a natural resource that many in our community depend on for their daily needs. The lotus and water lily leaves are an important product. They offer a sustainable alternative to plastic, and local vendors use them to make a living. I spoke with a few of these women, and they explained how the leaves are sold in local markets and used by small businesses. Their work is a part of a long tradition that ties the community to the lake.
The lake also supports other local livelihoods. It is home to fish and other aquatic life that many families rely on for income and food. Fishermen in the area depend on the lake’s healthy ecosystem. The water, the plants, and the animals form a cycle that supports both nature and the local economy.
For me, spending time by Vellayani Lake brings back memories of how nature and people share a common bond. When the lake is healthy, the community thrives. But there are challenges. Pollution and development sometimes threaten the lake. When these natural resources are harmed, the effects are felt by everyone—especially by those who depend on them every day.
One way to ensure its long-term protection is by having Vellayani Lake recognized as a Ramsar site. Ramsar designation would bring international attention and support, ensuring that proper conservation measures are put in place. This recognition would not only protect the unique flora and fauna of the lake but also preserve the traditional livelihoods that depend on it. A Ramsar status would provide a framework for sustainable management and serve as a reminder of our commitment to nature and community.
The idea of a Ramsar site is appealing because it emphasizes both ecological significance and practical benefits for local people. It is a call to protect the natural processes that keep our wetlands healthy, from water purification and flood control to the support of biodiversity. By achieving Ramsar designation, Vellayani Lake would receive the legal and institutional support needed to maintain its ecological integrity and ensure that its resources continue to benefit future generations.
I often return to Vellayani Lake, not just for its peaceful water, but for the life it supports. It reminds me that our environment and our communities are deeply connected. If we look after the lake, it will continue to look after us, providing resources and a way of life that has sustained generations.
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