Kanchanpur. The lakes within Shuklaphanta National Park have started drying up and getting buried due to climate change, water hyacinth and weeds. The lack of adequate budget has added to the challenges in conservation, officials said.

According to Park Information Officer Purushottam Wagle, the major natural lakes including Rani tal, Sikari Lake, Babatal, Kalital, Taratal, Salgaudi Lake have been buried in water hyacinth and shrubs and are drying up. These lakes are a source of water for wildlife.

“We have only Rs 3.4 million in capital budget. This amount has to be spent on the construction of tourism roads and other tourism infrastructures within the park,” said Information Officer Wagle. Apart from natural lakes, there are also 40 artificial lakes in the park area.

Shuklaphanta is considered an attractive destination for domestic and foreign tourists as it is a place full of biodiversity. There are numerous animals and plants found in the reserve. There are also many small lakes here. Information Officer Wagle stressed the need of allocating adequate budget for the conservation of this wetland.