Demolition Threat Looms Over Newly Constructed Park at Ana Sagar Lake in Ajmer
The future of a recently built park in Ajmer, situated by the beautiful Ana Sagar Lake, hangs in the balance as a demolition threat looms overhead. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) central zone in Bhopal recently passed an order stating that any construction in violation of the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules of 2010 and 2017 at Ana Sagar Lake must be demolished.
The petition that led to this order was filed by Ashok Malik, and now the newly constructed seven wonders park, located on the lake’s banks, is facing the possibility of being torn down. The NGT has emphasized that the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules of 2010 and 2017 apply to Ana Sagar Lake. In accordance with these rules, any permanent construction within the wetland area, as well as its zone of influence, must be removed and demolished.
Furthermore, the order highlights the need for adherence to environmental laws when considering proposals such as cruise boats on the lake. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act from 1974 and other relevant environmental regulations should be carefully observed, and no such activity should be permitted without appropriate permissions in accordance with these laws.
The order also sheds light on the issue of untreated sewage being discharged into Ana Sagar Lake from three nullahs (drainage channels). The future management of sewage in Ajmer is deemed insufficient to address the present discharge, especially since some constructions, including pathways and vendor stands, have already been erected around the lake.
A government report on the matter reveals that out of the 13 nullahs surrounding the lake, two have dried up, while eight have been diverted. However, three nullahs continue to release untreated sewage into the pristine waters of Ana Sagar Lake.
This news raises concerns about the preservation and conservation of one of Ajmer’s most cherished natural treasures. The Ana Sagar Lake holds immense cultural and ecological significance for the region, attracting visitors and locals alike with its breathtaking beauty.
It is essential to strike a balance between development and environmental preservation, and the NGT’s order emphasizes the need for strict adherence to conservation rules. The future of the newly constructed park and the lake’s ecosystem itself hang in the balance, highlighting the need for careful consideration and actions that prioritize the environment.
As the issue unfolds, it will be crucial to keep a close eye on developments and how stakeholders respond. Balancing the preservation of local ecosystems with the demands of development is an ongoing challenge, and it is essential to find effective and sustainable solutions that uphold both environmental and developmental goals.
