Remove water hyacinth from Ambazari Lake: Fuke to admin

Nagpur: The water quality of Ambazari Lake is deteriorating steadily as large volumes of untreated sewage from areas under the Wadi Municipal Council limits continue to flow directly into the lake. In view of the worsening pollution, steps have been initiated to treat the contaminated water through a sewage treatment plant (STP) and ensure its planned and scientific reuse.An inspection of the project was carried out on Tuesday by MLC Parinay Fuke, collector Vipin Itankar, municipal commissioner Abhijeet Chaudhari, deputy conservator of forests Vinita Vyas, Yash Kale, Wadi Municipal Council chief officer Dhabarde and range forest officer Sheetal Karnate, among others.The issue of pollution in Ambazari Lake had earlier drawn significant attention during a District Planning Committee meeting, following which guardian minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule had directed the administration to take urgent action. In response, the administration has now initiated concrete measures.During the inspection, Fuke stressed that water hyacinth must be removed and systems implemented more effectively. "Discussions alone are not enough. There is a need for concrete, visible action," he said, issuing clear instructions to the concerned officials.Fuke emphasised that Ambazari Lake is not merely a tourist attraction but a crucial component of Nagpur's water management system, biodiversity and environmental health. He called upon all concerned agencies to work in coordination for the protection, cleanliness and rejuvenation of the lake, so that citizens can see tangible improvement.The rapid spread of water hyacinth has almost completely covered the surface of Ambazari Lake, blocking sunlight from reaching the water. This has led to a decline in dissolved oxygen levels, posing a serious threat to fish and other aquatic life.The infestation has also resulted in foul odour and increased breeding of mosquitoes and insects, directly affecting the health of nearby residents and disturbing the ecological balance.Expressing concern over the deteriorating condition and the loss of the lake's natural beauty, Dr Fuke directed officials to prepare a time-bound action plan to remove water hyacinth using mechanical and biological methods.