Naini Lake’s Water Levels Hit Record Lows: What’s Behind It?

Naini Lake Crisis: A Struggling Ecosystem

The alarming depletion of water levels in Naini Lake has raised serious concerns, with experts fearing that the lake’s water level could drop below the zero mark. However, this does not necessarily mean the lake will dry up completely; rather, it implies that the water level could fall below its normal gauge level, which is set based on historical data for each body of water. Naini Lake, which has a maximum depth of 89 feet, typically maintains a gauge level of 12 feet. This current decline, though not signaling an immediate dry-out, is still worrisome, as it could severely impact the lake’s ecosystem and the local water supply.

Concerns Over Drinking Water Scarcity:

One of the most pressing concerns arising from the lake’s diminishing water levels is the potential drinking water crisis ahead of the summer season. Naini Lake plays a vital role in supplying water to the city of Nainital. Approximately 10 million liters of water are extracted daily from the lake to meet the drinking water needs of the city. In 2024, over 75% of Nainital’s total water demand was met solely by the lake. As the water levels drop, this vital resource could face increased pressure, leading to a serious scarcity for the residents and visitors alike.

Reasons Behind the Deteriorating Health of Naini Lake:

Several factors are contributing to the poor health of Naini Lake, which is facing significant environmental strain:

• Decreased Snowfall and Rainfall: One of the primary causes of the lake’s deteriorating condition is the reduction in snowfall and rainfall during the winter months. This, combined with long-term neglect in maintaining the lake, has resulted in a concerning water shortage. Additionally, annual mean temperatures in Uttarakhand have increased by nearly 1.5 degrees Celsius between 1970 and 2022. The rise in temperature is affecting both rainfall and snowfall patterns, leading to less replenishment of the lake’s water reserves.

• Man-Made Manipulations: The degradation of the lake’s recharge zones, driven by human activities, has further compounded the problem. Encroachments and illegal construction near the lake have reduced its catchment area, meaning less rainwater can be absorbed and flow into the lake. Furthermore, the construction of concrete structures in the area reduces the ability of rainwater to infiltrate the soil and replenish the lake, especially in years with low rainfall.

• Siltation and Pollution: Another significant issue contributing to the lake’s declining water levels is the increasing siltation caused by debris being dumped in Sukhatal Lake, which serves as a major aquifer recharge area for Naini Lake. This has led to the shrinking of Sukhatal Lake, reducing its capacity to recharge the aquifers feeding Naini Lake. Moreover, the discharge of untreated wastewater, solid waste, and the lack of an adequate sewer system are polluting the lake, further deteriorating its water quality.

• Population Pressure and Commercialisation: Naini Lake also faces significant stress due to the growing population, increased tourism, and the commercialization of nearby areas. These factors place additional pressure on the lake’s water resources and contribute to its environmental degradation.

Calls for Action:

In response to the crisis, several petitions have been filed in both the Supreme Court and the state High Court. These petitions call for a halt to the ongoing concretisation of the lake bed, a revamp of Sukhatal Lake, and a ban on commercial complexes near Naini Lake. However, despite these legal actions, no concrete steps have been taken to address the urgent need for restoration.

As Naini Lake faces its biggest environmental challenge, it is evident that a comprehensive approach is required—one that addresses both the natural and man-made factors contributing to the lake’s distress. Without immediate intervention, the future of Naini Lake, a vital resource for both people and wildlife, hangs in the balance.