Lake Cheleleka at risk of drying up

It was the area where formerly known for being centre of recreation by traditional and motor boats and giving astonishing landscape to walk all around the edge of the lake. But, now almost nearly 80 percent of the land formerly constituted by water body of the lake is dried and serving as farming plot. Especially on the north and eastern part of the lake, vast farming activities are being taken place. There are also unrestricted cattle grazing areas. Lake Cheleleka was among eight lakes of Bishoftu city, which is believed to be formed by the rain waterfalls from the surrounding hills. Particularly this lake is well known for being seasonal home from September to March, for thousands of birds and flamingos, which are known for their recycling migration in eastern Africa. It gives amazing view to see a group of flamingos, flying together and settling here for some periods. Bishoftu City Administration, Culture and Tourism Bureau said that, even though the bureau has observed the critical problem and could guess some major causes.“ Regarding to exerting efforts in solving the problem are beyond our capacity and we have written letter to the State culture and tourism bureau." Read more...