Lonar Crater Lake - Threats To Lonar Lake

Threats To Lonar Lake

Lonar lake of faces anthropological and environmental problems as listed below:

• Use of fertilizers, pesticides and toxic materials in the agriculture field around the lake results in pollution of lake water.

• One of the water sources for the lake is small river stream Dhara, Sita Nhani. The household effluents containing detergents are regularly disposed off here.

• Deforestation is illegally carried out in the surrounding and cattle grazing inside or near the rim of crater creates fecal pollution.

• Excavation activities are often carried out illegally thus disturbing the lake's underground water source.

• The government is unable to raise funds needed for preserving this crater and often tourist activities continue to cause environmental damage to nearby land.

• During local festival such as Kamala Devi festival, large number of pilgrims enter the crater. Small shops, food-stalls are often established near the crater or along its rim.

• Among the frequent visitors are the religious visitors from nearby towns and villages who are not adequately educated by the means of signboards and attending officials about littering and maintaining the beauty of this nationally important destination.

Crater is protected as a geological landmark and authorities have recognized the role of the historical and archaeological heritage in the lake, nevertheless action is needed to prevent the adverse impact of settlements and religious festivities on local ecosystem. Various civic activities (e.g. "Save Lonar") in protection of Lonar crater are on-going.