Manasbal Lake faces growing ecological pressure from human activity: Study

Srinagar, Sep 16: Manasbal Lake, one of Kashmir’s important freshwater ecosystems, is facing growing ecological pressure from agricultural runoff, sewage, tourism, stone quarrying and expanding human settlements.
A recent scientific review published in the issue of Current World Environment, states that increasing nutrient inputs from household waste, sewage and agricultural activities have contributed to eutrophication in the lake, affecting its water quality and aquatic life.
Researchers from the University of Kashmir’s Department of Zoology examined available studies on the lake’s hydrology, water quality, biodiversity and human-induced pressures and called for comprehensive restoration and management measures.
Manasbal, located in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, is described in the study as a deep freshwater lake with a maximum depth of about 13 metres. It covers approximately 280 hectares, including around 25 hectares of marshland, and receives water mainly from springs, precipitation and an irrigation channel.
The lake has no distinct natural inlet, while excess water leaves through the Nunnyar Nalla and eventually reaches the Jhelum River.
The researchers noted that Manasbal’s catchment covers about 22 square kilometres and includes agricultural land, plantations, settlements and areas affected by quarrying.
“Human settlements, agricultural runoff, tourism, and stone quarrying” were identified among the major pressures affecting the lake.
According to the review, more than 31 per cent of the catchment comprises wasteland and bare-rock areas associated with quarrying sites. Limestone sediments from these areas can enter the lake system, contributing to sedimentation.
The study also points to the role of Kondabal, an area known historically for kilns, quarries and mines. Quarrying activity has been associated with increased calcium entering the lake, which researchers say can contribute to sedimentation and nutrient accumulation.
Tourism is another pressure. The researchers said motorboat activity and oil spills can add to pollution, while increasing human activity around the lake has compounded waste-management problems.
The lake is also known for its aquatic biodiversity, including fish and birds, and for its extensive growth of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) during July and August.
The review said Manasbal is an important habitat for aquatic birds and has been recognised as one of Kashmir’s major bird-watching sites. Its fisheries and other resources also support local economic activity.
The researchers warned that eutrophication, driven by excess nutrients, can promote algal growth and eventually deteriorate water quality and the wider aquatic ecosystem.
The study noted that Manasbal has a water residence time of about 1.2 years and a reported sedimentation rate of 0.44 centimetres per year, factors that are important for understanding how pollutants and sediments move through the lake.
The review also highlighted changes in land use around the lake, including agriculture, plantations and built-up areas, and recommended reducing erosion and sediment inflow through measures such as reforestation of degraded areas with native species.
The researchers called for better regulation of human activities around the lake, improved waste and sewage management, control of pollution sources and restoration of degraded areas.
They said protecting Manasbal was important not only for biodiversity but also for fisheries, tourism, local livelihoods and the cultural value associated with the lake. (KNO)