Naini Lake of Nainital
Naini Lake is a natural kidney-shaped lake in the heart of Nainital, surrounded by seven hills. It is a major tourist attraction and the main source of drinking water for Nainital city. Daily extraction by Uttarakhand Jal Sansthan: 10 million litres.
Current Situation
- Water level has dropped to 7 feet, the lowest in 5 years.
- The gauge level of the lake is 12 feet.
- The lake may dip below "zero level", affecting the water supply.
- This has raised concerns over summer water scarcity.
Reasons for Decline
- Climate Change & Weather Patterns
- Rise in average temperatures in Uttarakhand by 5°C (1970–2022).
- 2022 saw a good year for precipitation; 2024 experienced a 41% deficit in winter rainfall.
- Lack of snowfall and poor rainfall are key contributors.
- Urbanization & Construction
- Unplanned construction and concretization have reduced recharge areas.
- Encroachment around the lake has reduced natural percolation.
- Waste Management Issues
- Improper solid waste disposal, untreated wastewater, and poor sewage systems lead to stormwater contamination of the lake.
- Reduced Recharge from Sukhatal Lake
- Sukhatal Lake, a major aquifer recharge source, is silted and reduced in capacity due to encroachments.
Environmental Concerns
- 76% of Nainital’s water demand was met from Naini Lake in 2024.
- Increased tourism and commercialization have exerted pressure.
- Local officials and researchers flag the issue of poor water distribution and urban sprawl.
Legal & Conservation Measures
- Petitions since 1993 have sought to stop construction in lake areas.
- 2021: Petition converted into PIL at Uttarakhand HC.
- 2022: HC suspended lake-bed construction; work restarted in 2024.
- Experts demand:
- Assessment of catchment area
- Protection of recharge zones
- Rejuvenation plans for lakes and natural water bodies
