The ecological integrity of Keetham Lake, also known as Sur Sarovar, is under serious threat as the Uttar Pradesh government reportedly plans to reduce the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) surrounding the Ramsar-designated wetland to zero. This alarming development has raised eyebrows among environmentalists and local communities alike, who are already witnessing the adverse impacts of industrialization and urban expansion in the Yamuna basin.

Keetham Lake, formed by the meandering Yamuna River, is not only a significant habitat for diverse avian species but also a crucial natural resource for the region. The wetland was recognized as a Ramsar site in August 2020, emphasizing its importance in global biodiversity conservation. In September 2022, the Supreme Court intervened to mandate an increase in the lake’s ESZ from 403 hectares to 799 hectares, highlighting the necessity for protective measures to safeguard this vital ecosystem.

Environmental advocates fear that the state government’s current proposal undermines these judicial directives, potentially leading to irreversible damage to the lake’s fragile ecosystem. The ESZ is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance, providing a buffer against urban development and pollution. By reducing the ESZ to zero, experts warn that the lake could face unregulated encroachment, jeopardizing both the habitat of countless bird species and the livelihoods of local communities reliant on its resources.

Local activists have expressed their outrage, emphasizing that the government’s plans are a blatant disregard for both environmental regulations and the Supreme Court’s orders. They argue that the reduction of the ESZ would facilitate unchecked industrial and infrastructural projects in close proximity to the lake, further exacerbating water quality issues and habitat loss.

In response to these developments, several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and conservation groups have initiated campaigns urging the government to reconsider its stance. They have called for public awareness programs to educate citizens about the importance of Keetham Lake and the need for sustainable management practices to protect the area.

As debates continue, the fate of Keetham Lake hangs in the balance. Environmentalists are hopeful that increased public scrutiny and advocacy will compel the government to uphold its commitment to conservation and respect the Supreme Court’s ruling. The coming months will be critical in determining the future of this vital ecological sanctuary within the Yamuna basin.