An Assignment on

“The Lakes of Bangladesh”

Course Title: Limnology
Course Code: FMN-121

SUBMITTED TO
Dr. Md. Moazzem Hossain
Professor
Department of Fisheries Management, Faculty of Fisheries,
Patuakhali Science and Technology University,
Dumki, Patuakhali-8602
SUBMITTED BY
Id.No. Reg.No. Name Session
2204017 11392 MD. Ismail Hossain 2022-23

Submission Date:28/11/20244
Patuakhali Science and Technology University
Dumki, Patuakhali-8602
Introduction: Lakes in Bangladesh are vital for maintaining ecological balance, supporting
biodiversity, and sustaining local communities. These water bodies, both natural and man-made,
provide essential services such as freshwater, flood control, and habitats for various species.
However, they face significant threats from pollution, over-exploitation, and climate change.
This study explores the types, ecological importance, and societal roles of lakes in Bangladesh,
while also examining the challenges they face and the conservation efforts underway.
Understanding these factors is key to ensuring the sustainable management and protection of
these crucial resources.

List of Important lakes of Bangladesh:

1. Kaptai Lake

2. Boga Lake

3. Mohamaya lake

4. Foy's Lake

5. Ramsagar Lake

6. Meghla Lake

7. Dhanmondi Lake

8. Gulshan Lake

9. Hatirjheel Lake

10. Sonargaon Lake

11. Madaripur Lake

12.Durga Sagar Lake

Important Lakes of Bangladesh:

Kaptai Lake
Kaptai Lake is the largest man-made lake in Bangladesh, located in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. It
was created in the 1960s by damming the Karnaphuli River to generate hydroelectric power for
the region. The lake spans an area of about 68 square kilometers and is surrounded by beautiful
hills and forests, making it a popular tourist destination.
The lake is not only crucial for power generation but also serves as an important source of
irrigation, fishing, and transportation for the local communities. Its scenic beauty, with clear blue
water and green hills, makes it a serene spot for boating, fishing, and nature walks. The surrounding
Kaptai National Park offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly birds and various plant
species.

The lake also plays a significant role in the local economy, with nearby communities relying on
fishing and agriculture, while tourism adds to its economic importance. It is an essential part of
the region's natural landscape and cultural heritage.

Boga Lake
Boga Lake, one of the most well-known lakes in Bangladesh, is situated in RumaUpazila inthe
hilly district of Bandarban. Its popularity comes from multiple reasons – getting thererequires a
formidable ascent of 1,246 feet in addition to having to navigate the deep, steepforests of
Bandarban. The lake’s origin story also makes the place more attractive. It isbelieved that the
villagers of Khumi village killed a deity and in response, the deity cameback as a dragon causing
an earthquake. Hence, the village disappeared into the earthand the lake was formed. Boga Lake
is a nature refuge that is home to a wide variety of flora and animals, including some of the most
endangered species, in addition to its stunning beauty and captivating origin story. You engage in
a wide variety of recreational activities like boat rides, camping and spend a few days with the
tribal community to experience their lifestyle.
Mohamaya lake
Mohamaya Lake is located in the Mirsharai Upazila of Chittagong (now called Chattogram). It is a smaller,
picturesque, and serene lake, surrounded by lush green hills and forest areas. The lake is a popular tourist
spot, offering tranquil views, boating, and an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Mohamaya is often less crowded than Kaptai, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Foy's Lake
Foy’s Lake is almost a century old. The lake’s primary function was to supply the residents of the
railroad colony with fresh water. Due to its breathtaking beauty, it quickly gained popularity and
began to draw tourists from around the nation. The administration made the decision to create an
amusement park around the Foy’s lakes after realising their potential for development. The lake
and the park offer a variety of enjoyable activities throughout the day to keep its guests entertained.
Leisurely boat trips offer the chance to soak in the lake’s tranquil surroundings. If somebody wants
to stay overnight, there is a resort with the same name, Foy’s Lake Resort.
Ramsagar Lake
Ramsagar is the largest man-made lake in Bangladesh situated in the village Tejpur eight kilometer
south of the Dinajpur town. The lake-wide is about 1079 m north-south and length 192.6 m in
East-West. Ramsagar was established in the mid-1750s by Raja Ram Nath. The lake is full of
different types of fishes. Moreover, the lake is a safe place for migratory birds.
Meghla Lake
Meghla Lake is located in the scenic hill district of Bandarban, in southeastern Bangladesh. It is
part of the Meghla Tourist Complex, a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty,
waterfalls, and panoramic views of the surrounding hills. The lake, with its serene water and lush
green surroundings, offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Visitors often enjoy walking along
trails or exploring the nearby forests, making it a serene getaway in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Dhanmondi Lake
Dhanmondi Lake a significant depression within Dhaka metropolitan area. It is situated in the
middle of Dhaka City. Originally Dhanmondi Lake was an abandoned channel of the 'Karwan
Bazar Nadi' ('Karwan Bazar' is commonly spelled and pronounced as 'Kawran Bazar'), previously
known as the 'Caravan River,’ whose alignment was possibly along Begunbari Khal-Green Road-
Kalabagan-Dhanmondi Lake to the Turag river. The lake is about 16% of the total area of
Dhanmondi and has been playing a vital role in maintaining the only drainage system of
Dhanmondi and adjacent areas. It is 3 km in length, 35-100m in width, with a maximum depth of
4.77m, and the total area of the water body is 37.37 ha.
Gulshan Lake
Gulshan lake is located in Dhaka city and is one of the most well-known lakes in Bangladesh. The
city corporation has declared this lake as being an “ Ecologically Critical Area” in 2001. Direct
dumping of sewage and water runoff had increased the lake’s pollution. It’s a tourist attraction to
the people for natural beauty.

Hatirjheel Lake
Hatirjheel is a man-made lake located in the heart of Dhaka, Bangladesh's capital. It was developed
to ease traffic congestion and improve drainage in the city. The lake is an urban oasis, surrounded
by a scenic walkway, and is popular for evening strolls, boating, and enjoying the city's skyline. It
serves as both a recreational space for residents and an environmental project that has enhanced
the urban landscape of Dhaka.
Sonargaon Lake
Sonargaon is not a single lake, but a historical region in the central part of Bangladesh, which
includes several water bodies and lakes. Historically, it was the ancient capital of Bengal. The area
is rich in cultural heritage, with the Panam City ruins and the Folk Art Museum. Though not
specifically known for one large lake, Sonargaon is home to various small lakes, ponds, and water
channels that contribute to its charm, especially near the historical sites.
Madaripur Lake
Located in central Bangladesh, Madaripur is known for its rural landscape and numerous rivers,
ponds, and small lakes. The region is primarily agricultural, and the lakes and ponds serve as vital
water sources for irrigation and local livelihoods. While not a major tourist destination, the natural
water bodies in Madaripur play an important role in the local economy and are essential for the
community's daily activities.
Durga Sagar Lake
Durga Sagar, known locally as Madhabpasha Dighi, is the largest lake in southern Bangladesh. It
has a total area of about 25 hectares (62 acres). The lake is about 11 kilometers (6.8 mi) away from
Barisal city. Rani Durgabati, the mother of Raja Joy Narayan, had the pond excavated in 1780.
There is a small island in the middle of the lake; this island was originally not part of the lake – it
was created artificially to beautify and increase tourist attraction.
Conclusion: The important lakes of Bangladesh, including They provide essential resources for
agriculture, fishing, and recreation, while also contributing to the country's cultural and ecological
heritage. These lakes not only enhance the beauty of Bangladesh’s landscape but are integral to its
environmental and economic sustainability.
References:

Banglapedia

Wikipedia

Government reports on water resource

Local and international environmental organization.