Petroleum from machines leaking into Naini lake, threatens aquatic life – Pioneer Edge | Uttarakhand News in English | Dehradun News Today| News Uttarakhand | Uttarakhand latest news
AFZAL HUSSAIN FAUJI/Nainital
Petroleum substances and oil leaking from machines being used in the ongoing treatment work along the Lower Mall Road are ending up in the Naini Lake, posing a serious threat to the lake’s environment and aquatic life. A visible oily layer floating on the lake’s surface has raised concerns among local residents and environmentalists.
The Public Works Department is currently undertaking treatment work on the Lower Mall Road. Heavy machinery is being used for the work, and during the process, a significant quantity of petroleum substances and oil is ending up in the lake. Biology lecturer and environmentalist Kamlesh Pandey said that the formation of an oil layer on the water surface affects oxygen exchange, making it difficult for fish and other aquatic organisms to breathe. If the situation continues for a long time, it could even lead to the death of aquatic life.
He further stated that toxic elements present in the oil are deteriorating water quality and disturbing the biological balance of the lake. According to him, increased contamination could also lead to excessive growth of algae, affecting the lake’s cleanliness and natural beauty. Since Naini Lake is a major tourist attraction, such contamination may also adversely impact tourism activities.
Local residents have demanded that the administration ensure strict compliance with environmental norms during construction work and carry out regular monitoring to protect the lake from pollution.
Taking the matter seriously, Nainital district magistrate Lalit Mohan Rayal has issued strict instructions to the executing agency, stating that no chemical or oil should end up in the lake during the construction process. He warned that action will be taken against the agency concerned if any negligence is found.
The DM has also directed the PWD executive engineer to immediately clean the petroleum substances spreading in the lake to prevent harm to the water and aquatic life. In addition, the municipality has been instructed that if thinner used in boats is found floating into the lake from any boat or boat stand, the boat in question should be seized.
