Srinagar, Mar 6: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has raised serious concerns over the deteriorating water quality of Dal Lake, following a widespread cyanobacterial (Microcystis) bloom that has covered large portions of the lake.

Based on field observations and scientific analysis, EPG has rejected claims attributing the bloom to seasonal temperature changes or reduced water inflow. The bloom began two weeks ago, when temperatures were relatively low, and about 30% of the lake’s inflow comes from subsurface springs, making natural causes unlikely.
EPG points to recent mechanical deweeding operations conducted by a contractor under the Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) as a likely trigger. Unlike previous years, the deweeding was carried out without scientific evaluation or ecological monitoring, leading to excessive disturbance of nutrient-rich lake-bed sediments. This released phosphorus and nitrogen into the water, fueling rapid cyanobacterial growth.
The bloom is visible as thick green scum across the lake, accompanied by foul odor and water discoloration. Laboratory examinations have confirmed the presence of Microcystis, a toxic cyanobacteria. Exposure to the toxins can cause skin rashes, respiratory issues, gastrointestinal distress, and long-term liver or neurological effects. Ecologically, such blooms reduce biodiversity, block sunlight, and deplete oxygen, further degrading the lake.
EPG has criticized the LCMA for downplaying the issue through selective media messaging instead of acknowledging procedural lapses. The group stressed that while water treatment plants are monitoring and treating water for municipal supply, reactive measures cannot replace preventive ecological management.
The group has called for:
An independent scientific inquiry into the recent deweeding operations
Immediate public disclosure of water quality and toxin data
A permanent multidisciplinary oversight mechanism for lake management
EPG emphasized that Dal Lake, a key ecological, economic, and cultural resource, must be managed with scientific integrity, transparency, and long-term sustainability.