A belching lake

The pollution of lake water poses a grave threat to both environment and public health in the city. However, the lakes are listed waterbodies, which ought to have been under spotlight and constant care. These lakes are not supposed to be treated as open and uncared for channels which could become the dumping places for all kinds of toxic and harmful wastes. Gulshan-Baridhara Lake is situated in a premier residential area. So it is really surprising that the lake has been allowed to degenerate into a water channel that has been polluted to the extent that it is no longer considered safe for human contact. Regrettably, our oft-expressed concern for environment is far from reflected on the ground.

It has been reported that hundreds of drains carry a huge load of waste into the lake every day. This is, of course, highly undesirable from the environmental standpoint, but what is quite outrageous is how the city bosses could allow such a scheme of waste disposal that would pollute a beautiful lake.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

The hazards associated with this kind of lake management are too many. Now it is clear why the fish epidemic breaks out in Gulshan-Baridhara Lake from time to time. The lake is also a health concern as it is a potent source of water-borne diseases. The presence of such a filthy water channel pollutes the environment in the entire locality.

The environment department's findings should help the decision makers assess the true extent of pollution of city lakes. The corrective measures have to be taken as a matter of priority as environmental degradation is a major worry in this city of more than 10 million people. The authorities concerned should also ensure that our sensitivity to environmental issues does not remain confined to holding seminars and discussion meetings. It is time something tangible was done to save the lakes.