Shikaripalya Lake, Maragondanahalli village, Hullimangala panchayat,which is close to Electronics City, has been saved from extinction.A group of 11 citizens formed a conservation committee and petitioned the revenue authorities to save the lake. Though a survey was ordered in 2021, no progress was made till the National Green Tribunal (NGT) took up the matter, on January 2022 the gram panchayat engaged a firm to rejuvenate the lake with CSR funding from a private company and restored later the year,But all of the stories have gone vain in recent times as the residents complain about the sewage/Drainage water is pumping to the lake through rajakaluve; Need for a long term sustainable solution in terms and here are some key principles and practices for promoting the sustainability of lakes:
- Water Quality Management:
- Regular monitoring of water quality parameters such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, nutrient levels, and pollutants is essential.
- Implementing measures to prevent or mitigate pollution from agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and urban areas.
- Biodiversity Conservation:
- Protecting and restoring natural habitats around the lake to support a diverse range of flora and fauna.
- Preventing the introduction of invasive species that can disrupt the ecosystem.
- Watershed Management:
- Managing the storm water drainage and is crucial, as activities upstream can significantly impact the lake’s health.
- Implementing soil conservation practices to reduce erosion and sedimentation.
- Sustainable Fisheries:
- Implementing responsible and sustainable fishing practices to ensure the long-term health of fish populations.
- Establishing and enforcing fishing regulations to prevent overfishing.
- Habitat Restoration:
- Undertaking initiatives to restore degraded or lost habitats, such as wetlands and riparian zones.
- Planting native vegetation to stabilise shorelines and prevent erosion.
- Community Involvement:
- Engaging local communities in lake management and conservation efforts.
- Promoting awareness and education about the importance of sustainable practices among residents and stakeholders.
- Climate Change Adaptation:
- Considering the potential impacts of climate change on the lake ecosystem and developing strategies to adapt.
- Promoting water conservation practices to address changing precipitation patterns.
- Regulatory Framework:
- Establishing and enforcing regulations and policies that promote sustainable lake management.
- Incorporating zoning and land-use planning to prevent inappropriate development around the lake.
- Integrated Water Resource Management:
- Considering the interconnectedness of water resources and managing them holistically.
- Balancing the needs of agriculture, industry, and municipalities with the preservation of aquatic ecosystems.
- Water Use Efficiency:
- Encouraging efficient water use practices in agriculture, industry, and households.
- Implementing water-saving technologies and promoting water conservation.
- Economic Viability:
- Integrating economic considerations into lake management plans to ensure the sustainability of local livelihoods.
- Exploring eco-friendly tourism opportunities that generate income without compromising the lake’s health.
By adopting a holistic and integrated approach that addresses ecological, social, and economic aspects, lakes can be managed sustainably, ensuring their long-term health and the well-being of surrounding communities. Collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and environmental organisations, is crucial for the success of sustainable lake management initiatives.
