Naini Lake

Five-Year Low Water Level: Naini Lake recorded a water level of 4.7 feet, the lowest in five years.

Water Extraction: The Uttarakhand Jal Sansthan extracts 10 million liters of water daily from the lake for the city’s drinking water supply.

Increased Pressure: Population growth, tourism, and commercialization are impacting the lake’s health, with the lake meeting 76% of the city’s water demand in 2024.

Aging Infrastructure: Nainital’s aging water distribution network struggles to meet the demand.

Man-Made Manipulation: Naini Lake faces the greatest man-made pressures compared to other Kumaon lakes, including unplanned construction, encroachment, and degradation of recharge zones.

Siltation and Encroachment: Dumping debris in Sukhatal Lake and encroachments reduce the lake’s catchment area.

Pollution: Untreated wastewater, improper solid waste disposal, and sewage overflow pollute the lake.

Climate Change Impact: Rising temperatures affect rainfall and snowfall patterns, with decreased precipitation and snowfall days.

Increased Zero Level Incidents: The lake has reached zero level more frequently since 2000 compared to the 1900s due to intense rainfall and reduced land seepage capacity.

Construction Concerns: Construction continues despite bans, including homestays and construction on wetlands.

Sukhatal Lake Project: Concerns regarding the concretization of Sukhatal Lake’s bed led to a temporary suspension of construction.

Need for Ecosystem-Based Approach: Conservation plans lack an ecosystem-based approach, and rejuvenation of natural processes should be prioritized over tourism.