Consider the following statements with reference to Wular Lake:
1. Wular lake has been formed due to tectonic activities.
2. Wular Lake is the largest fresh water lake in India.
3. It has one of the largest deposits of rare Earth minerals in India.
Which of the statements given above are CORRECT?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Answer — Only 1 and 2 are correct.
Explanation —
Wular Lake, located in the Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir, is an extremely significant geographical and ecological entity in India.
Statement 1 is correct: Wular Lake was formed as a result of internal earth movements or tectonic activities. It is situated in a depression within the Kashmir Valley, which was created through processes of tectonic uplift and subsidence.
Statement 2 is correct: It is India's largest freshwater lake. The Jhelum River flows into this lake and subsequently flows through it, thereby ensuring that its water remains continuously clean and fresh.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Wular Lake is not known for deposits of rare earth minerals. It is primarily renowned for its high fish production, biodiversity, and water chestnut cultivation. In India, major deposits of rare earth minerals are found in coastal sands (such as the monazite sands of Kerala).
Additional Points —
Ramsar Site: Due to its ecological significance, Wular Lake was designated as a 'Wetland of International Importance' under the Ramsar Convention in 1990.
Tulbul Project: The 'Tulbul Navigation Lock-cum-Control Structure,' constructed on the Jhelum River, is situated at the mouth of this very lake; it remains a subject of discussion between India and Pakistan in the context of the Indus Waters Treaty.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers —
Question: Near which mountain range is Wular Lake situated?
Answer: It is located in the Kashmir Valley, to the north of the Pir Panjal Range.
Question: Through which lake does the Jhelum River flow?
Answer: Wular Lake.