The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has asked the Uttarakhand government to submit a detailed response on the pollution of Nainital Lake. The tribunal expressed concern over the lack of clear information in the state’s earlier reply and has now given officials two months to provide a more complete explanation of the steps being taken to address the issue.
The order was passed by the NGT’s principal bench in New Delhi, which includes judicial member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and expert member A Senthil Vel. The bench was hearing a case related to environmental damage to the famous Nainital Lake, a key landmark and water source in the hill town.
In addition to seeking a detailed reply, the tribunal has directed that the principal chief conservator of forests, who is the head of the forest force in the state, be made a party to the case. The tribunal said this step is necessary to ensure that all relevant authorities are involved in resolving the issue.
The case began after a petition was filed by Hemant Singh Gonia and others, who raised concerns about the worsening condition of Nainital Lake. The complaint was initially submitted as a letter in October 2024 and later registered as an official case in December 2024.
The petitioners said that the lake, which is a major tourist attraction, is also an important resource for local residents. However, they alleged that the lake is facing serious pollution due to administrative negligence.
According to the complaint, untreated sewage is being discharged into the lake through a drain that runs from Bhotia Market towards the area near the Naina Devi Temple. This drain reportedly carries sewage, garbage, and plastic waste directly into the water body.
The petitioners argued that this continuous flow of waste is harming the lake’s ecosystem. It is affecting aquatic life and damaging the natural balance of the area. They also pointed out that the lake serves as a source of drinking water for the town after treatment, making the pollution issue even more serious.
During the hearing, the tribunal noted that the additional affidavit submitted by the state authorities did not provide enough details about the projects or plans to tackle the problem. The bench said that the information given was incomplete and did not clearly explain what steps were being taken or proposed.
Because of these gaps, the tribunal has now asked the government to file a fresh and detailed response. This new submission must include clear information about ongoing and planned measures to reduce pollution and restore the lake.
Another important development in the case is the inclusion of the principal chief conservator of forests as a respondent. The tribunal said that the involvement of this senior official is necessary for proper decision-making and coordination among departments.
The tribunal registry has been directed to issue a notice to the newly added respondent and seek a reply within two months. This means that multiple departments, including forest and environmental authorities, will now have to work together to address the issue.
Earlier, the Uttarakhand State Wetland Authority had informed the tribunal that Nainital Lake does not fall under the definition of a wetland as per the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017. According to the authority, these rules do not apply to areas governed by the Indian Forest Act and the Forest Conservation Act.
However, this clarification does not reduce the seriousness of the pollution problem. The tribunal’s focus remains on ensuring that effective steps are taken to protect the lake and prevent further damage.
The NGT has given the state government two months to submit its detailed response. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for July 14. During that hearing, the tribunal will review the new information provided by the authorities and decide on further action if needed.
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Nainital Lake is not only a popular tourist destination but also a lifeline for the town. It supports local livelihoods, provides water for daily use, and plays a key role in maintaining the region’s ecological balance.
Environmental experts have often warned that pollution, unchecked tourism, and poor waste management can harm such fragile ecosystems. If not addressed in time, these problems can lead to long-term damage that is difficult to reverse.
The tribunal’s intervention highlights the need for better planning and stronger implementation of environmental protection measures. It also shows the importance of accountability, as authorities are required to clearly explain their actions and plans.
For residents and visitors alike, the condition of Nainital Lake is a matter of concern. Clean water and a healthy environment are essential for both quality of life and sustainable tourism.
As the case moves forward, all eyes will be on the response from the Uttarakhand government and the steps it proposes to take. The outcome could play an important role in shaping how environmental issues are handled in the region in the future.
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