Butwal, Apr. 1: The living creatures at the natural ponds and lakes of Rupandehi district are gradually facing extinction in the absence of any conservation effort.
The ponds and lakes have been limited to giving on contract for pisciculture.
The sprawling Gajedi lake covering an area of about 10 hectares at Jagedi Village Development Committee (vdc) is considered one of the best for various species of fishes, amphibians, reptiles and flora as well.
The Gaidaha Lake surrounded by jungle on all sides is a habitat of various birds, amphibians, reptiles, cranes.
There is a feasibility of developing Gaidaha Lake, which is at a distance of 7 kilometre north-east from Lumbini, as a tourist spot.
The Sagrahawa Lake located at Tenuhawa vdc has been utilised as a source of income by the vdc which has given it on contract for fish farming.
The lake occupying an area of four hectares is renowned for fishes, birds, reptiles and amphibians and has some of the rare flora and fauna on the verge of extinction.
It has been felt that not only the concerned authorities and agencies but also one and all should pay attention to preserve the ponds and lakes close to Lumbini listed as world heritage.
The conservation and management of the area will have positive impact on the natural heritage and means and resources of the district, improve the preservation of the biodiversty and support in the endeavour to conserve the nature, it is believed.