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Nainital: Nainital’s famous Naini Lake, the pride of Uttarakhand’s Lake city, is now in danger. The lake is facing an environmental crisis due to careless tourist behavior, pollution, and harmful feeding practices. Experts and officials are raising alarms as the lake’s ecosystem begins to suffer.
Every day, hundreds of bread packets, plastic wrappers, and other garbage are found along the lake’s banks. Tourists often feed bread, biscuits, and stale food to the fish, believing it to be a kind gesture. However, this practice is causing serious harm to the lake’s water quality and aquatic life.
Bread and biscuits contain chemicals and fungi that damage the fish’s digestive system
Dr. H.S. Bisht, professor in the Zoology Department of DSB College, explains that bread and biscuits are not natural food for fish. “These items contain chemicals and fungi that damage the fish’s digestive system,” he said. “Sometimes, spoiled food thrown into the lake spreads infection, which can even lead to fish death.” He added that the lake already provides enough natural food for the fish, and they should be allowed to rely on that.
Oxygen levels in the lake are decreasing
Due to these feeding habits, the oxygen levels in the lake are decreasing. This is affecting not only the fish but also other aquatic creatures. Recently, dead fish were seen floating on the lake’s surface, causing concern among locals and officials.
Administration has taken steps to stop this harmful practice
Municipal Corporation CEO Rohitash Sharma said that the administration has taken steps to stop this harmful practice. “We have placed warning signs around the lake and are issuing fines to those who litter or feed the fish,” he stated. “Feeding fish is a legal offense. We’ve also formed a special team to clean the lake and are considering bringing back the lake warden system.”
Members of the Naini Lake Conservation Committee are also worried. They say the growing amount of garbage is increasing bacteria and viruses in the lake. “If strict action is not taken soon, the lake’s beauty and biodiversity could be lost,” a committee member warned.
Lake is struggling to maintain its natural balance
The lake, once known for its clear waters and vibrant aquatic life, is now struggling to maintain its natural balance. Experts believe that if the pollution continues, the entire ecosystem could collapse in the coming years.
Locals and environmentalists are urging tourists to be more responsible. Visitors are requested not to feed the fish or throw garbage into the lake. Maintaining cleanliness and respecting nature is the only way to preserve Naini Lake for future generations.
