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Haleji Lake

Pakistan / Sind / Thatta /
 lake, reservoir, birdwatching area, bird sanctuary

Haleji originally was a salt-water lake which was formed by seasonal water, collecting in a depression. During World War II, additional water was required for troops stationed at Karachi. Salt water was drained out and an embankment was constructed around the lake which was fed by fresh water through a canal. Resultantly, Haleji became one of the major sources of water supply to the increasing population of Karachi as well as an exquisite refuge for waterfowl.
Complete circuit of Haleji is about 12 miles. The main water reservoir covers an area of 6.58 Sq. miles and the maximum depth being 17 feet. Shady trees surround it. Phragmites, Typha, Hydrilla and Lotus cover parts of the lake in swaying patches of colours.
The rocky out crops which jut out of the lake at various points are home of a number of migratory and resident waterfowl. One of them is known as Pelican Island and the other as Cormorant Island. On both these islands, hundreds of these birds can be seen resting and enjoying the sun. Evening is the best time for them, for then they all come home. There are marsh crocodiles too.
Haleji is a bird watcher's paradise. As many as 223 bird species have been recorded in the environs of Haleji lake. For instance, osprey, Pallas's fish eagle, Buzzards, Harriers, falcons, Wigeon, coot, shoveller, pintail, Teals, Mallard, heron, Jacana, flamingos and some times Bewick's swan, all form a marvellous sight for a bird watcher.
Nearby cities:
Coordinates:   24°48'0"N   67°46'27"E

Comments

  • onlooker
    Can you kindly provide more precise information about this place? Thank you.
  • salman atif (guest)
    regarded as one of the most important wintering areas of migratory waterfowl in Eurasia. It is located at 240 48 N and 600 47'E, and is within easy motoring distance, 88 Km, of Karachi. A sanctuary for birds and an outdoor attraction for humans. Haleji, a salt-water lake was formed by seasonal water, collecting in a depression. For additional water needed for troops stationed at Karachi, during world war II, salt water was drained out and an embankment was constructed around the lake which was fed by fresh water through a canal. Resultantly, Haleji became one of the major sources of water supply to the increasing population of Karachi as well as an exquisite refuge for waterfowl.(Sindh wildlife department)
This article was last modified 11 years ago