Residents of Model Colony in Shivajinagar are voicing alarm over the significant decline in the water level of Lakaki Lake, urging the civic body to implement stronger conservation measures.
Key Issues Highlighted:
- Borewell Proliferation: The proliferation of borewells in the area has led to groundwater depletion, directly impacting Lakaki Lake’s water level.
- Uncontrolled Construction: Unchecked construction activities in the vicinity contribute to water wastage during excavations, exacerbating the problem.
Challenges Facing Lakaki Lake:
The lake, primarily reliant on rainwater and replenishment from underground streams, faces excessive extraction from unmonitored borewells. Escalating evaporation rates due to rising temperatures further compound the issue.
Residents’ Concerns:
Residents note that water encountered during construction is often wasted instead of conserved, jeopardizing the delicate ecosystem of Lakaki Lake. They call for a comprehensive survey by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to assess underground water usage and enforce stricter regulations.
Community Voices:
A person working for Lakaki Park, speaking anonymously, expressed concern over this year’s tremendous decline in water levels. With rainwater being the sole source for the lake, the low levels highlight the impact of insufficient rainfall.
Ongoing Efforts:
Efforts to prevent encroachment around the lake are ongoing, with residents resisting concrete structures near the water body. However, blocked entry points from surrounding hillsides and sewage leaks hinder natural replenishment efforts.
Proposed Solutions:
Residents advocate for mandatory rainwater harvesting and stricter monitoring of water usage. They emphasize the importance of controlled concretization to mitigate the strain on aquifers and preserve Lakaki Lake’s ecosystem.
While the garden department remains committed to ecological preservation, decisions affecting water levels involve multiple departments. Residents stress the need for coordinated efforts and proactive measures to safeguard Lakaki Lake’s water resources for future generations.
