Unkal lake choked again by water hyacinth, sewage blamed

Hubballi: Unkal lake is once again facing a serious problem as water hyacinth has returned and spread across a large portion of the historic water body. The fresh growth of this invasive aquatic plant has affected the lake's appearance and reduced its usefulness for recreation and public enjoyment. The repeated spread of weeds shows that the issue has not been solved at its source.The main reason for the return of water hyacinth is the continued inflow of sewage into the lake. This free-floating perennial plant grows rapidly in nutrient-rich polluted water, especially where untreated wastewater enters regularly. Although the civic authorities and district administration earlier took several measures to remove the weeds and restore the lake, the problem has resurfaced because the conditions that support weed growth still remain.Unkal lake spreads over 240 acres, and nearly 30 acres are now covered by hyacinth. This is a significant portion of the lake and has created both environmental and practical difficulties. Thick weed cover blocks sunlight from reaching the water, reduces oxygen levels, and affects aquatic life. It also slows water movement and creates stagnant patches, making the lake unhealthy over time.The weed infestation has also disrupted tourism and recreational activities. Water sports and other public facilities in the lake area have become unusable because of the dense plant growth. Visitors who once came to enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake are now greeted by a neglected and weed-covered surface. This not only damages the image of the lake but also affects local recreation and tourism potential.Umesh Dushi, a social activist, said that the recurring problem highlights the need for a permanent solution rather than temporary weed-clearing drives. Authorities must stop sewage from entering the lake, improve wastewater management, and carry out regular monitoring to prevent fresh growth. Mechanical removal of weeds may provide short-term relief, but hyacinth will continue to return unless pollution is controlled.Unkal lake is an important landmark, and its restoration requires sustained action. Protecting it from sewage pollution and invasive weeds is essential to preserve its beauty, ecological balance, and public utility, he added.Vittal Tubake, executive engineer north, HDMC, said removing weeds was a routine practice and that this year too, over the past few days, work related to removing weeds was taken up at Unkal lake.A Mysuru-based agency carried out the weed removal at the lake. Because of weeds, water sports activities were also hampered. He said efforts were being made to make the lake free of weeds in another couple of weeks. This year, over Rs 42 lakh is going to be spent on weed removal, including for the maintenance.