In strict geographical classification, Chilika Lake should be placed as what?

Coastal lagoon

Chilika Lake is a large brackish-water coastal lagoon on the Odisha coast. A lagoon is a shallow water body separated from the sea partly by a sand bar, barrier, or coastal deposits, while remaining connected with the sea in some way. Chilika’s coastal setting and its connection with marine water make “coastal lagoon” the correct classification. Therefore, option D is correct. It is not a glacial lake, coral island, or volcanic crater.

The important clue is the location and form of Chilika. It lies beside the Bay of Bengal and is separated from the open sea by a sandy barrier, creating a broad shallow lagoon. Its water can contain both freshwater influences and saltwater influences, so it is often described as brackish. The question asks for strict geographical classification, and D gives the precise landform type. The supplied answer and explanation are accurate.

This is a Class 9 Geography question. Chapter: Physical Features of India. Topic: The Coastal Plains and Islands.