Navi Mumbai’s iconic DPS Lake, located in Nerul, has recently come under scrutiny as concerned locals and environmentalists raise alarms over the emergence of cracks in its dried-up portion.
The development has sparked widespread shock and concern among residents, who attribute the phenomenon to the prevailing intense heatwave conditions exacerbated by recent environmental changes. Central to the concerns is the perceived impact of construction activities undertaken by the City and Industrial Development Corporation (Cidco), particularly the construction of a passenger water transport terminal that effectively blocked access to Thane Creek. The separation of the lake from its natural water source has disrupted the ecological balance, leading to adverse consequences such as the drying up of the lake bed and the death of surrounding trees. Environmentalists have also drawn attention to the presence of two inlets feeding into the lake, one situated beneath the road leading to the passenger terminal and the other from the fishing area. However, the closure of the latter by local fishermen for fishing purposes has impeded the flow of water into the lake, exacerbating the existing water scarcity issues.
The situation at DPS Lake underscores the delicate balance between development and environmental conservation, with stakeholders emphasising the need for sustainable urban planning and ecological preservation. The emergence of cracks in the lake bed serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of human activities and their impact on the natural environment. Moving forward, addressing the environmental challenges facing DPS Lake requires a concerted effort from government authorities, environmental agencies, and local communities. Measures such as restoring water flow, mitigating heatwave effects, and implementing sustainable land-use practices are essential to safeguarding the ecological health of the lake and its surrounding ecosystem.
Green activist Sunil Agarwal alleged, “The inlet under a minor bridge that connects the passenger water transport terminal has been blocked for over a year. All the three authorities – Cidco, NMMC and the forest department should look into the issue. Soon this water body will be history unless action is taken.” Cidco PRO Priya Ratambe said, “We need to examine the issue and hence cannot comment on the same. The development at DPS Lake, Nerul, highlights the urgent need for proactive measures to address environmental degradation and promote sustainable development practices. By prioritising environmental conservation and adopting holistic approaches to urban planning, stakeholders can work towards preserving the natural heritage of Navi Mumbai for future generations.
