KATHMANDU: Phewa Lake, located in the heart of Pokhara, Nepal, is one of the country’s most iconic and picturesque natural landmarks. Located at the base of the Annapurna Mountain range, the lake covers an area of approximately 4.4 square kilometers and is renowned for its stunning beauty and tranquil waters. It is the second-largest lake in Nepal, after Rara Lake, and serves as a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The lake has significant cultural, historical, and ecological importance. It is believed to have been formed due to geological movements and the gradual accumulation of water over thousands of years. Historically, Phewa Lake was a critical resource for the local community, providing water for irrigation, fishing, and transportation. Today, it remains central to the livelihood of many in the region, especially those in the tourism and fishing industries.

1.Phewa Lake: The Jewel of Pokhara

Phewa Lake, also referred to as Phewa Lake, is one of the most significant and picturesque natural landmarks of Nepal, located in the city of Pokhara. Nestled at an altitude of 827 meters above sea level, this serene freshwater lake has long been a symbol of the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region. Phewa Lake covers an area of approximately 4.4 square kilometers and is the second-largest lake in Nepal after Rara Lake. The lake’s pristine waters and the panoramic views of the Annapurna Mountain Range make it one of the country’s most photographed and celebrated tourist destinations.

The lake has cultural and historical importance as well. On the center of the lake sits the Tal Barahi Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Barahi, which attracts numerous pilgrims every year. It is also an important site for boating activities, fishing, and recreational activities that are enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike. For decades, Phewa Lake has been a source of livelihood for thousands of Pokhara’s residents, providing essential water resources for agriculture and daily consumption. The lake also contributes significantly to the city’s tourism sector, offering a tranquil escape for visitors and playing a central role in the local economy.

Pokhara, a city known for its spectacular views of the Himalayas, has thrived as a key tourist destination, and Phewa Lake is at the heart of this development. Along its shores, there are numerous hotels, restaurants, and cafes, catering to tourists who come to experience the area’s natural beauty and engage in various water sports. The lake has gained recognition globally for its picturesque landscape, reflected in the calm waters that mirror the surrounding hills.

In addition to its economic importance, Phewa Lake also supports a rich ecosystem, with a variety of fish species and aquatic plants that maintain its biodiversity. The surrounding areas of the lake are home to several bird species, both migratory and native, making it an important site for birdwatching. Over the years, Phewa Lake has earned its reputation as a natural sanctuary, both for its scenic beauty and ecological value.

Despite its many attractions and benefits, Phewa Lake faces increasing pressure due to various challenges, including pollution, encroachment, and shrinking water levels. The expanding city of Pokhara and increasing demand for infrastructure development along the lake’s shores have raised concerns about the lake’s long-term health and sustainability. However, efforts to conserve the lake and protect its surrounding ecosystem have been underway, with both governmental and non-governmental organizations playing a role in addressing these challenges.

2. Shrinking of Phewa Lake: The Decline of a Natural Wonder

The shrinking of Phewa Lake in Pokhara is a growing environmental crisis with long-term implications for the region’s ecology, economy, and local communities. Historically, Phewa Lake has been a symbol of serenity and natural beauty, attracting tourists and providing resources to the surrounding area. However, a closer examination of the lake’s historical area measurements, recent surveys, and the effects of encroachment and urbanization reveals a disturbing trend of shrinking. This decline, caused by human and natural factors, poses a significant threat to the region’s environmental sustainability and the livelihoods of those dependent on the lake.

Historically, Phewa Lake was much larger than it is today. The British Survey of India in 1925/26 recorded the lake’s area at 3.46 square kilometers. This measurement, however, was likely an underestimation, given the lack of advanced surveying technology and the incomplete construction of the dam at that time. By 1957, after the dam was completed, the Nepal-India cooperation mission survey reported the lake’s area at 10.36 square kilometers. This report marked a more comprehensive understanding of the lake’s full size, reflecting the changes brought about by the dam. The figures from this survey were widely accepted, but they are now being disputed due to discrepancies observed in later surveys, which show a significant reduction in the lake’s size.

In recent years, a government committee tasked with assessing the current state of Phewa Lake reported a dramatic reduction in its area. According to the committee’s findings, the lake’s current area has shrunk to just 5.726 square kilometers, roughly 11,255 ropanis, marking a near 50% reduction in its size compared to the 1957 assessment. This loss of area is critical as it impacts the lake’s ecosystem, its capacity to support aquatic life, and its role in local tourism. The committee’s report, published in 2020, set the lake’s perimeter at around 18 kilometers and identified its boundaries, including Damsite in the east, Morebagar in the west, Damkilo between Khapaudi and Chakharpur in the north, and Chisapani Raniban in the south.

A primary factor contributing to the shrinkage of Phewa Lake is encroachment. Over the years, urbanization around the lake has led to the illegal conversion of lake areas into private property. In 2012, a report led by Bishwa Prakash Lamichhane, the former chair of the Pokhara City Development Committee, highlighted the alarming extent of human encroachment. The report stated that around 1,692 ropanis (86 hectares) of the lake’s area had been illegally developed into private property after the 1974 dam breach. Although the dam was repaired in 1984, nearly 500 ropanis of the encroached land were submerged in the lake’s waters, but much of the damage had already been done.

The Lamichhane report also pointed to the conversion of wetlands and cultivated land around the lake into private properties, significantly reducing the space available for the lake’s natural ecosystem. The report recommended that the government take action to address these illegal land transactions and restore the encroached areas. In 2018, the Nepal Supreme Court issued a ruling that directed the Ministry of Land Management and the Department of Survey to cancel the illegal land titles and reintegrate the encroached areas into the lake. Despite the ruling, full implementation of this decision has been delayed, leaving many areas still encroached upon.

Apart from encroachment, pollution is another significant factor contributing to the lake’s shrinking. As Pokhara has become a popular tourist destination, the increase in tourism has placed greater pressure on the lake’s water quality. Waste from boating activities, resorts, and local settlements has resulted in severe pollution, leading to sedimentation and eutrophication, which accelerates the lake’s shrinking. Increased waste runoff, including plastics and organic matter, further degrades the water quality, leading to an unhealthy environment for aquatic species.

In addition to human activity, climate change has exacerbated the lake’s shrinking. The changing climate has caused more erratic rainfall patterns, leading to extended dry spells and reduced snowmelt from surrounding mountains, which traditionally fed the lake. During the dry season, the lake’s water levels significantly decrease, making the shrinking effect even more pronounced. The reduced rainfall during the monsoon season further compounds the lake’s struggle to maintain its natural water volume.

Another contributing factor to the lake’s reduction in size is the increased water extraction. The growing demand for water from both local populations and the tourism industry has placed significant pressure on the lake’s resources. Phewa Lake is used for various purposes, including drinking water, agriculture, and tourism-related activities, all of which have led to unsustainable water extraction. Reports suggest that if this demand continues to increase without proper management, the lake could eventually face severe depletion.

3. Encroachment on Phewa Lake: Development vs. Conservation

Encroachment around Phewa Lake has become one of the most pressing environmental issues in Pokhara, as rapid urbanization and development projects continue to infringe upon the lake’s protected buffer zone. This phenomenon, in which buildings, resorts, and infrastructure are constructed within the lake’s ecological boundaries, has significant consequences for the lake’s natural environment, water quality, and overall ecosystem. The ongoing conflict between development and conservation has raised questions about how to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.

Historically, the areas surrounding Phewa Lake were sparsely developed, with agricultural lands and small settlements lining the shores. However, as Pokhara grew in popularity as a tourist destination, the demand for land around the lake surged. This resulted in a series of construction projects, many of which encroached upon the lake’s buffer zone—an area designated for environmental preservation. This unauthorized construction disrupts the natural flow of water, restricts access to the lake’s shores, and introduces pollution from construction materials and waste into the water.

One of the most high-profile cases of encroachment occurred with the development of the Park Village Water Front Resort, a project owned by tourism entrepreneur Karna Bahadur Shakya. The resort was constructed within the protected area of the lake, violating the regulations meant to safeguard Phewa Lake. The issue came to a head in 2011, when a writ petition was filed by environmentalists Bal Krishna Bhandari and Advocate Khagendra Subedi, challenging the legality of the resort’s construction. The Supreme Court of Nepal intervened and ordered the government to demolish all structures built within 65 meters from the lake’s high flood point.

In its ruling, the Supreme Court identified that the resort was built on barren public land and that it had been illegally granted construction permits. The court ordered the complete demolition of the resort, including all associated structures such as the swimming pool, garden truss, and vehicle parking area, all of which were within the lake’s protected area. The ruling also directed the government to remove any other private or government-built structures within this 65-meter zone and to engage in plantation efforts to restore the natural buffer zone. This landmark verdict highlighted the growing conflict between development and conservation in Pokhara, where economic interests often clash with the need to protect the environment.

Encroachment around Phewa Lake is not limited to large-scale resorts like the Park Village Waterfront Resort. Smaller, informal settlements have also sprung up along the lake’s shores in recent years. These settlements often lack proper planning and environmental assessments, resulting in poor waste management practices, deforestation, and soil erosion. This type of unregulated construction contributes significantly to the pollution of the lake, as waste from these settlements ends up in the water, accelerating the process of sedimentation and eutrophication. This makes the lake’s water more contaminated and reduces its capacity to support aquatic life.

In addition to encroachment from construction projects, the broader issue of urbanization is also a major factor contributing to the lake’s degradation. As Pokhara becomes increasingly urbanized, the demand for land, infrastructure, and resources grows, placing further pressure on the environment. The unchecked expansion of roads, hotels, and other buildings near Phewa Lake disrupts the delicate ecological balance that the lake requires to remain a viable habitat for fish and other aquatic species.

The debate over encroachment in Phewa Lake highlights the need for a more sustainable approach to development. While development, particularly in the tourism sector, can bring economic benefits, it must be balanced with efforts to conserve and protect the lake. The growing number of tourists visiting Pokhara has fueled the construction boom, but this should not come at the cost of the lake’s ecological health. Local government officials, in collaboration with environmental organizations, must enforce stricter regulations and ensure that construction projects around the lake are environmentally responsible.

Moreover, community involvement is essential in fostering a sustainable relationship between development and conservation. Local residents and businesses must be educated about the importance of preserving Phewa Lake and its surrounding ecosystem. As a vital part of Pokhara’s tourism industry and local economy, it is in everyone’s best interest to protect the lake for future generations.

In conclusion, the encroachment of Phewa Lake represents a significant challenge that requires immediate and effective action. While development is necessary for economic growth, it must not come at the expense of the environment. Striking a balance between development and conservation is crucial for ensuring the long-term survival of Phewa Lake, and this can only be achieved through strict enforcement of environmental regulations, public awareness, and sustainable urban planning. If left unchecked, the continued encroachment and degradation of Phewa Lake will result in a loss of one of Nepal’s most iconic natural landmarks.

4. Pollution of Phewa Lake: A Growing Environmental Crisis

Pollution is a major issue for Phewa Lake, and it is a direct consequence of both urban growth and tourism activities in the region. Over the years, Phewa Lake has become increasingly polluted, with a significant rise in the amount of waste, sewage, and industrial pollutants entering the water. The lack of an effective waste management system in Pokhara has compounded the problem, leading to the contamination of the lake’s water and the degradation of its aquatic ecosystem.

One of the primary sources of pollution is untreated sewage. As Pokhara has grown, so has the amount of sewage generated by the population, particularly in areas near Phewa Lake. Many households and businesses around the lake lack proper sanitation facilities, and wastewater is often dumped directly into the lake, polluting the water with harmful bacteria and chemicals. Additionally, the increase in the number of hotels and resorts around the lake has led to a rise in wastewater discharge, further exacerbating the pollution problem.

Solid waste is another major pollutant. Tourist activities, including boating and fishing, generate large amounts of plastic waste, which is often discarded improperly. Plastic bottles, bags, and wrappers litter the shores of the lake, contributing to the degradation of its water quality. Furthermore, motorized boats that run on fossil fuels pollute the water with oil and fuel spills, which have long-term negative effects on the lake’s aquatic life.

The pollution has led to eutrophication, a process in which excess nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, accumulate in the lake’s water, causing algae blooms. These blooms deplete the oxygen levels in the water, making it difficult for fish and other aquatic organisms to survive. As a result, many fish species have either disappeared or significantly declined in numbers. The algal blooms also make the water murky, detracting from the lake’s aesthetic appeal and reducing its attractiveness to tourists.

The government and local authorities have taken some steps to address the pollution problem. Initiatives such as better waste management, public awareness campaigns, and efforts to regulate boating activities have been implemented. However, these measures have not been sufficient to curb the ongoing pollution crisis. For Phewa Lake to remain a healthy and sustainable water body, stronger enforcement of environmental regulations, improved infrastructure for waste disposal, and greater community participation in conservation efforts are essential.

5. The Impact of Climate Change on Phewa Lake

Climate change has emerged as one of the most significant threats to Phewa Lake, exacerbating many of the challenges the lake already faces, including pollution, encroachment, and shrinking water levels. The changing climate has led to altered weather patterns in the Pokhara region, with higher temperatures, increased variability in rainfall, and reduced snowmelt from the surrounding mountains. These changes have profound effects on the lake’s hydrology, water quality, and ecosystem.

One of the key impacts of climate change on Phewa Lake is the reduction in rainfall during the monsoon season, leading to lower water levels. Reduced rainfall means that the streams and tributaries feeding the lake carry less water into it, resulting in lower overall water volume. During dry spells, the lake’s water level drops significantly, making it more prone to the issues of pollution and eutrophication. The increased evaporation rates caused by higher temperatures also contribute to the shrinking of the lake.

Additionally, climate change affects the snowmelt from the surrounding Himalayan range, which traditionally served as a natural source of water for Phewa Lake. As global temperatures rise, glaciers and snowpacks are melting at an accelerated rate, which could disrupt the natural replenishment of water in the lake. With less snowmelt, the lake’s water supply is diminished, leading to lower water levels and increased vulnerability during periods of drought.

The ecological consequences of climate change are also severe. Warmer temperatures and erratic weather patterns affect the aquatic species living in the lake. Some fish species that are native to the lake are unable to adapt to the warmer waters, leading to a decline in biodiversity. Moreover, altered weather conditions create conditions that promote the growth of harmful algae, further degrading the lake’s water quality.

The effects of climate change are making it harder for local authorities and communities to manage the lake’s water resources effectively. As the climate continues to change, efforts to protect and conserve Phewa Lake must include adaptive measures that account for these shifting conditions. This could involve implementing climate-resilient water management strategies, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and restoring natural water sources that feed the lake.

6. The Role of Tourism in Phewa Lake’s Decline and Preservation

Tourism has always played a significant role in the economy of Pokhara, and Phewa Lake is at the heart of this sector. The lake attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists every year, who come to enjoy its natural beauty, serene environment, and a variety of recreational activities. However, the very tourism that has boosted the local economy has also contributed to the lake’s environmental degradation, particularly in terms of pollution, over-exploitation of resources, and the expansion of built-up areas around the lake.

Boating on Phewa Lake has long been one of the main attractions for tourists. While boating provides a peaceful and scenic way to experience the lake, it has also resulted in pollution from motorized boats, which contribute to the contamination of the water. Many tourists and locals alike engage in recreational boating, but unfortunately, many of these boats use fossil fuels instead of cleaner alternatives. The result is a deterioration in the water quality due to the release of oil, gasoline, and other chemicals. Additionally, the physical act of boating causes damage to the lakebed, disturbing aquatic plants and sediment, which exacerbates the sedimentation issue.

Waste generation from tourism also contributes significantly to the pollution of Phewa Lake. The rapid increase in the number of tourists has led to more litter and solid waste being deposited around the lake, particularly in the form of plastic bottles, wrappers, and food packaging. Many tourists fail to properly dispose of waste, and as the lake is often a popular destination for short-term visitors, waste management infrastructure has struggled to keep up with the rising demand. Though some measures have been implemented, such as designated garbage bins and cleaning drives, these have proven inadequate in the face of the scale of waste generation.

Despite these challenges, tourism also has a key role to play in the conservation of Phewa Lake. With proper management, tourism could become a tool for environmental preservation. Sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-tourism, can help reduce the negative impacts of tourism on the lake. The use of solar-powered boats, for example, could significantly reduce the pollution caused by motorized boats. Additionally, promoting responsible tourism and public awareness campaigns can help encourage visitors to adopt waste-free practices, such as disposing of trash properly or reducing plastic usage.

In recent years, there have been calls for regulated tourism around Phewa Lake. This could involve limiting the number of boats operating on the lake or promoting the use of non-motorized boats such as paddle boats or kayaks. Moreover, tourism development projects must be aligned with environmental sustainability goals, ensuring that new infrastructure around the lake does not encroach upon its buffer zone or contribute to its environmental degradation. As the largest industry in Pokhara, tourism has the potential to lead conservation efforts if managed properly.

Tourism is also a major contributor to local livelihoods, with many people employed in the tourism sector. The development of eco-friendly tourism infrastructure and more rigorous regulations for businesses around the lake could create new opportunities for economic growth while also ensuring the lake’s preservation. By integrating the principles of sustainable tourism into local policies, it is possible to strike a balance between preserving Phewa Lake’s natural beauty and promoting the region’s economic development.

7. Phewa Lake’s Economic and Cultural Importance

Phewa Lake has long been an integral part of the local economy and culture in Pokhara. As one of the most visited tourist destinations in Nepal, the lake contributes significantly to the region’s revenue from tourism. Its scenic beauty, serene environment, and recreational activities attract both domestic and international visitors, boosting local businesses and providing employment opportunities. It is a crucial source of income for the local community, particularly those involved in the hospitality industry, including hotels, restaurants, and boating services.

In addition to tourism, Phewa Lake plays a vital role in the local agricultural economy. The lake’s water is used for irrigation purposes by farmers living in the surrounding areas. The water from the lake supports the cultivation of crops such as rice, vegetables, and fruits, which are important for the food security of the local population. The surrounding wetlands also serve as habitat for various plant and animal species, some of which have medicinal value and contribute to the biodiversity of the region.

Culturally, Phewa Lake holds a special significance for the people of Pokhara and the wider region. The lake is deeply intertwined with local traditions, rituals, and religious practices. Tal Barahi Temple, located on a small island in the middle of the lake, is an important religious site for both locals and visitors. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Barahi and is a center for pilgrimage. Annual festivals, rituals, and celebrations take place at the lake, reinforcing its role as a cultural and spiritual landmark.

However, the lake’s economic and cultural importance also makes it a highly contested space. As development pressures increase, the competition for land around the lake has grown. With the rise of tourist-centric businesses and luxury resorts, much of the surrounding land is being rapidly developed, often without sufficient regard for environmental conservation. As a result, the very characteristics that make Phewa Lake so attractive—its natural beauty and ecological health—are being eroded by over-development and encroachment.

Efforts are being made to protect the cultural and economic integrity of Phewa Lake through various conservation initiatives. Local authorities, environmental groups, and stakeholders in the tourism industry are collaborating on strategies to safeguard the lake’s future. These include increasing the awareness of the cultural significance of the lake, promoting eco-friendly practices among tourists and locals, and enforcing regulations that preserve its ecological health. By ensuring that future development around the lake prioritizes sustainability, Phewa Lake can continue to serve as a cultural and economic asset for generations to come.

8. The Role of the Government and NGOs in Conservation Efforts

The Nepal government, local authorities, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have increasingly focused on the conservation of Phewa Lake, recognizing its critical importance for both environmental sustainability and local livelihoods. Over the years, various measures have been taken to preserve the lake, address its shrinking size, and tackle the growing issue of pollution.

One of the key challenges has been enforcing environmental regulations. Although there are laws in place to protect the lake’s natural habitat and buffer zones, illegal encroachments and unsustainable development continue to threaten its integrity. To address this issue, the government has issued various directives, including a Supreme Court ruling, which ordered an investigation into the development of construction projects like the controversial Park Village Resort. This ruling signifies a step towards ensuring that future developments around the lake adhere to established environmental guidelines and that encroachment is minimized.

NGOs, environmental activists, and community-based organizations also play a significant role in raising awareness about the importance of preserving Phewa Lake. Organizations such as the Pokhara Tourism Development Council and environmental advocacy groups have been at the forefront of efforts to promote eco-tourism, improve waste management systems, and educate the public about the consequences of pollution and illegal construction. These organizations work alongside local communities to implement sustainable practices, such as clean-up drives and educational campaigns aimed at reducing the use of plastic and encouraging responsible tourism.

Another important aspect of the conservation effort is collaboration with international organizations. With its global significance as a tourist destination, Phewa Lake has attracted the attention of international environmental groups who are working to support local initiatives. Financial and technical support from such organizations has helped fund various conservation projects, including wetland restoration, water quality monitoring, and the establishment of eco-friendly infrastructure around the lake.

Furthermore, the local government of Pokhara has launched regulatory measures such as restricting building in the buffer zone and introducing sustainable water management practices. Efforts have also been made to improve the management of waste generated by tourism and local communities. Despite these efforts, enforcement remains a challenge, and much work remains to be done to ensure that the lake is preserved for future generations.

9. The Future of Phewa Lake: Sustainable Management and Preservation

The future of Phewa Lake largely depends on how well it is managed and how effectively the challenges of pollution, encroachment, and shrinking water levels are addressed. With continued urbanization and increased tourist activity, Phewa Lake faces significant environmental and ecological pressures. However, with appropriate planning, policy implementation, and community engagement, the lake’s long-term sustainability is achievable.

Sustainable management practices must be at the core of future efforts. This involves creating regulations that restrict encroachment, promote environmentally friendly tourism, and regulate the use of water from the lake.

Additionally, the introduction of climate-resilient solutions to mitigate the effects of changing weather patterns will help safeguard the lake’s water supply. For example, implementing water conservation measures, reforestation around the lake’s catchment area, and strengthening flood control systems will all contribute to the lake’s long-term health.

One of the key factors in ensuring the future of Phewa Lake is the collaboration between stakeholders. This includes local government authorities, tourism operators, environmental NGOs, and the communities that live around the lake. It will require a concerted effort to balance the economic and cultural benefits of tourism with the need to protect the lake’s natural resources. Investment in eco-friendly infrastructure, such as sustainable hotels, waste management systems, and green public spaces, will help to minimize the ecological footprint of tourism while ensuring that Pokhara remains a top tourist destination.

As the demand for water resources and urban development around the lake continues to increase, managing the lake’s buffer zone and surrounding environment will be crucial to maintaining its ecological balance. Public-private partnerships could play an essential role in financing conservation efforts and promoting sustainable development practices.

In conclusion, the future of Phewa Lake depends on the active participation of all stakeholders in preserving its beauty and ecological health. By adopting sustainable management practices, promoting eco-tourism, and investing in conservation, it is possible to secure the lake’s future as a natural and cultural asset for Nepal.

10. New Tourism Initiatives at Phewa Lake: Dragon Boat Racing and Cultural Festivals

In recent years, new tourism initiatives have been introduced at Phewa Lake to boost the region’s tourism sector while promoting cultural exchange and preserving the lake’s significance. One of the most exciting additions to the tourism calendar is the Nepal-China Friendly Dragon Boat Race Festival, which was first launched in 2019. This event has gained popularity as a way to enhance tourism and promote cultural relations between Nepal and China, and it also brings attention to the importance of preserving Phewa Lake.

The Dragon Boat Race features teams from Nepal, China, and Singapore, making it an international event that attracts a global audience. The festival provides an exciting and visually spectacular experience, with traditional dragon boats racing across the lake’s surface. The event helps highlight the lake’s beauty and cultural significance, while also raising awareness about the environmental challenges that the lake faces.

By incorporating cultural and sporting events like the Dragon Boat Race, Phewa Lake has become a venue not only for tourism but also for cultural exchange. These events have contributed to the diversification of tourism activities, attracting a broader range of tourists and increasing the lake’s global profile. The festival helps to shift focus from mere sightseeing to active participation in traditional and cultural activities, enhancing the sense of pride among the local community.

However, such events must be managed responsibly to ensure they do not negatively impact the lake. This includes proper waste management during festivals, minimizing damage to the water quality, and promoting the use of eco-friendly materials. By integrating sustainable tourism practices into these events, the lake can continue to thrive while accommodating new forms of tourism that contribute to the economy.

In the future, Phewa Lake can continue to benefit from innovative tourism initiatives that promote conservation, community involvement, and cultural exchange. By leveraging its natural beauty, cultural significance, and growing international interest, Phewa Lake has the potential to remain a beloved destination for tourists from around the world while preserving its unique ecological and cultural heritage.

The Future of Phewa Lake: Can It Be Saved or Will It Vanish?

The future of Phewa Lake, one of Nepal’s most iconic natural landmarks and a vital resource for the city of Pokhara, is increasingly uncertain. With the ongoing threats of encroachment, pollution, and environmental degradation, the lake’s survival hangs in the balance. However, there are still possibilities for its restoration and preservation if urgent and comprehensive actions are taken. The question remains: Can Phewa Lake be saved, or is it destined to vanish as it continues to shrink due to human activities?

Historically, Phewa Lake was much larger than it is today, and recent surveys have shown a dramatic reduction in its size. According to a government committee formed in 2020, the lake now covers just 5.726 square kilometers, compared to the 10.36 square kilometers reported by the Nepal-India cooperation mission in 1957. This is a nearly 50% reduction in the lake’s area. The shrinkage of the lake is primarily attributed to encroachment, with construction projects and the conversion of land for agricultural and residential use contributing to the loss of its natural habitat. Illegal land conversions around the lake’s perimeter, particularly after the dam breach in 1974, have compounded the problem. In 2012, a report revealed that as much as 1,692 ropanis (86 hectares) of the lake’s area had been converted into private property, and despite a Supreme Court ruling in 2018 to reclaim the land, full implementation of this decision remains pending.

Beyond encroachment, pollution has become a significant issue for Phewa Lake. Rapid urbanization and the surge in tourism have led to increased waste generation, including sewage, plastic waste, and chemicals from nearby hotels and boat operations. These pollutants, coupled with the natural sedimentation process, have contributed to the deteriorating water quality and ecological health of the lake. The increasing pressure from tourism, while economically beneficial, has exacerbated the strain on Phewa Lake, making it more susceptible to further degradation.

Despite these challenges, Phewa Lake is not without hope. Recent legal developments have provided a glimmer of optimism. In 2023, the Supreme Court issued an order for the demolition of all buildings within 65 meters of the high flood point of the lake, including the Park Village Water Front Resort, a major encroachment project. This ruling underscore the commitment to preserving the lake’s natural heritage and the recognition of its environmental significance. Additionally, the court mandated that the government implement measures to restore the buffer zone around the lake, including reforestation efforts and the removal of illegal structures. If these legal decisions are fully implemented, they could provide a crucial step toward reversing some of the damage inflicted on the lake.