Recent reports highlight a series of non-compliances by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) regarding untreated sewage flowing into Powai Lake. In response, a committee mandated by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has recommended imposing a penalty of Rs 5 lakh per month for each inlet that violates the new action plan.
Powai Lake is an artificial lake located in the northern suburb of Mumbai, Maharashtra. Constructed by the British in 1890, it was created by building two dams approximately ten metres high across two hillocks. This was done to enhance the water supply to Bombay. The hillocks at the southern end of the lake are part of the lower slopes of the Western Ghats.
The catchment area of Powai Lake spans 6.6 square kilometers, with depths ranging from 3 to 12 metres. It is home to two prestigious institutions: the Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay (IIT-B) and the National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE). Notably, the Padmavati Devi Temple, located on the bank of the lake within the IIT Bombay campus, dates back to the 10th century AD.
Adjacent to Powai Lake is the Powai Bird Sanctuary, which serves as a crucial habitat for various bird species, both resident and migratory. Among the notable inhabitants and visitors are the Watercock, Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Slaty-legged Crake, Ruddy-breasted Crake, Woolly-necked Stork, Caspian Tern, and Peregrine Falcon.
However, recent developments are concerning; approximately 40% of the lake has vanished. This degradation is attributed to rapid urbanization, as residential, commercial, and industrial areas expand around the lake.
The recommendations from the NGT underline the urgency of implementing effective sewage treatment strategies to protect Powai Lake's fragile ecosystem. Continuous monitoring and strict adherence to environmental regulations are vital in reversing the damage caused by pollution. Efforts to raise awareness about the lake's ecological importance are essential for fostering community involvement in conservation initiatives.
Q1. What actions have been recommended by the NGT for Powai Lake?
Answer: The NGT has recommended that the BMC face a penalty of Rs 5 lakh per month for each inlet if the new sewage action plan is violated, addressing untreated sewage issues.
Q2. Why was Powai Lake constructed?
Answer: Powai Lake was constructed in 1890 by the British to augment the water supply to Bombay, utilizing two dams built across hillocks.
Q3. What is the significance of the Powai Bird Sanctuary?
Answer: The Powai Bird Sanctuary is significant as it provides habitat for numerous resident and migratory bird species, supporting ecological diversity.
Q4. How has urbanization affected Powai Lake?
Answer: Urbanization has led to the deterioration of Powai Lake, resulting in the disappearance of about 40% of its area due to increased residential and industrial development.
Q5. What historical site is located near Powai Lake?
Answer: The Padmavati Devi Temple, dating back to the 10th century AD, is located on the bank of Powai Lake within the IIT Bombay campus.
Question 1: What is the main environmental issue faced by Powai Lake as noted by the NGT?
A) Deforestation
B) Untreated sewage disposal
C) Water scarcity
D) Industrial waste dumping
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: In which year was Powai Lake constructed?
A) 1880
B) 1890
C) 1900
D) 1920
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Which institution is NOT located near Powai Lake?
A) IIT Bombay
B) NITIE
C) IIM Ahmedabad
D) NITIE
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What percentage of Powai Lake has reportedly disappeared due to urbanization?
A) 10%
B) 20%
C) 30%
D) 40%
Correct Answer: D
Question 5: Which bird species is mentioned as a resident of Powai Lake?
A) Sparrow
B) Peregrine Falcon
C) Robin
D) Crow
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: What is the penalty recommended for BMC if they violate the action plan?
A) Rs 1 lakh
B) Rs 2 lakh
C) Rs 3 lakh
D) Rs 5 lakh
Correct Answer: D
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