Pink Waters Return to Senegal’s Lake Retba
(MENAFN) The vivid pink hues of Senegal’s famous Lac Rose have made a striking comeback after nearly three years of discoloration.
The lake had turned green due to persistent flooding and heavy rainfall, altering its iconic appearance.
Positioned roughly 35 kilometers (21.7 miles) from the capital city, Dakar, this body of water is locally referred to as "Retba" in the Wolof tongue. It is recognized globally as one of the most saline lakes on Earth.
The lake's unique coloration is attributed to the algae known as "Dunaliella salina," which thrive in the salty environment.
Lac Rose is not only a visual marvel but also holds substantial significance for Senegal’s tourism sector and economy.
Over the years, it has served as the final destination of the renowned Paris-Dakar Rally and remains one of the most symbolic natural attractions associated with Senegal.
In addition to its visual charm, the lake is a vital center for salt extraction—a crucial asset to the nation's financial framework.
Each year, an estimated 60,000 tons of salt are harvested from its shallow waters, which reach a maximum depth of just 3 meters (10 feet).
This labor-intensive activity supports the livelihoods of around 3,000 individuals.
Salt harvesting is primarily conducted during the arid season, from November through June.
The process is predominantly manual, carried out by temporary workers hailing from neighboring countries such as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.
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