The proposed rejuvenation and beautification of Aarey Lake, also known as the picturesque Chota Kashmir Lake, has stirred up a heated controversy between environmentalists and the government. The Public Works Department (PWD) has issued a tender worth Rs 10.58 crore for the project, which includes desilting work and other improvements.
However, this plan has faced strong opposition from environmentalists, who argue that the project is unnecessary and could have detrimental effects on the lake’s ecology. Stalin D, an environmentalist from the NGO Vanashakti, has raised concerns about the proposed project. He pointed out that there have been no idol immersions in the lake for the past two years, rendering the desilting work unnecessary. Moreover, he argued that the project could violate the Wetland Rules of 2010 and 2017, as well as court orders protecting wetlands. Stalin emphasized that Aarey Lake is a natural water body located within the ecologically sensitive Sanjay Gandhi National Park.
He highlighted the need to maintain a distance of at least 50 meters from the lake’s high flood line to protect its ecology and hydrology. He also questioned whether the eco-sensitive zone management committee had approved the project, urging the PWD to avoid legal battles by taking corrective action. The PWD officials were unavailable for comment when contacted, leaving the fate of the project uncertain. The conflict between environmentalists and the government over the Aarey Lake rejuvenation plan underscores the ongoing challenges in balancing development with environmental conservation in urban areas. As the debate intensifies, it remains to be seen whether the PWD will reconsider its plans or proceed with the project despite the opposition.
