The Ramsar lake that gives Kollam town its drinking water
Background
Kerala's wetlands are under pressure as reclamation for development presses on them, and the Kerala Forest Department sets out where the State's best known lakes stand.
The Department names Vembanad-Kole, Ashtamudi and Sasthamcotta lakes as Kerala wetlands of international and national significance designated as Ramsar sites.
Sasthamkotta lake is described as a tributary of the Kallada River, and it provides drinking water to Kollam town.
The Department notes that its water level is declining, raising concerns about future shortages.
Pokkode, Sasthamkotta and Vellayani are named as the notable inland lakes of a State that has few of them.
The Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment has prepared management plans for Vembanad, Sasthamcotta and Ashtamudi.
In plain words
Ramsar site Wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention — A wetland listed under the Ramsar Convention as being of international importance.
KSCSTE Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment — The State council that runs Kerala's research and development centres in science and environment.