Unchecked sewage flow, filth threaten ecology of Futala Lake

Nagpur: Futala Lake, an iconic water body in the city, continues to grapple with untreated sewage inflow and mounting filth along its banks. The issue is also currently being heard by the western zone bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) following a report by TOI that flagged the deteriorating condition of the lake. Currently, efforts are underway to revive the musical fountain project at the lake. Replacement cables for the fountain are expected to reach Nagpur shortly, with a French technical team likely to visit the city to supervise installation as part of MahaMetro's restoration plan. The project is a key step towards reviving Futala as a public attraction.But the unresolved sewage discharge and contamination raise questions about the lake's long-term ecological health. In an earlier assessment, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) declared the lake water unfit even for bathing due to high contamination levels, underscoring the gravity of the situation.In its affidavit before the NGT, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) admitted that sewage flowing into the lake originates from Kashmiri Vasti, an adjoining old settlement where the underground sewer pipeline network weakened over time. The NGT ordered NMC to provide a proper timeline for the sewage line's repair.According to the civic body, the ageing and damaged sewage line resulted in continuous discharge into the lake. NMC proposed laying a new diversion pipeline estimated to cost Rs23.6 lakh to prevent further inflow. Officials informed the tribunal that the tendering process for the project is underway, but execution is likely to take time.Heaps of plastic waste, discarded food packets and other debris line the periphery of the lake. A senior official from the Dharampeth zone told TOI that regular cleaning drives are being carried out along the lake's periphery. "We are conducting routine cleaning and took measures to prevent garbage dumping from outside. Efforts are on to maintain the surroundings," the official said.Despite these measures, visible waste and murky water conditions persist, drawing attention from residents and environmental observers.