Lonar Lake’s rising water levels have submerged several ancient temples in Maharashtra’s Buldhana district. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay is investigating the phenomenon. This situation raises significant concerns about the preservation of these historical structures and the unique ecosystem.
Lake Water Levels Rise
The water level at Lonar Lake has continuously increased over the past five to six years. This rise has submerged temples located on the lake’s lower rim. Among these is the Kamalja Devi temple , a popular site for devotees, especially during Dussehra.
Arun Malik, Superintending Archaeologist for the Nagpur circle of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), stated that 15 temples fall under ASI’s purview. Most of these structures, some over 1,200 years old, are now underwater due to the rising levels.
Investigation Underway
Buldhana District Collector Kiran Patil confirmed that experts from IIT Bombay have collected water and soil samples from Lonar Lake. They are working to identify the precise causes of the rising water and to assess its environmental impact on the unique crater ecosystem. Several other scientists have also taken samples for independent studies.
The district administration engaged these experts to find definitive answers. Researchers aim to understand if the water level changes are entirely natural or influenced by specific environmental factors.
Proposed Causes for Rising Waters
Several theories have emerged regarding the increased water levels in the landlocked lake, which has no natural outlet:
- Reserve Forest Impact: ASI official Arun Malik suggests the surrounding reserve forest contributes to the rise. He found, through historical images and archives, that increased plantation and vegetation growth around the crater might enhance water retention in the micro-environment. Earlier Google Earth images showed significantly lower water levels before the forest matured.
- Increased Spring Flow: District Collector Kiran Patil highlighted the Gaimukh temple complex, which features a natural spring flowing directly into the lake. The flow from this specific spring has demonstrably increased. Patil also noted that several other springs are now more active around the crater rim, potentially adding to the lake’s volume.
- Changing Rain Patterns: Patil observed a shift in local rain patterns. Lonar experienced localized cloudbursts and unusually heavy rains this year. To better monitor these conditions, an automatic weather station has been installed at Lonar.
Local researcher Sachin Kapure described the submergence of the Kamalja temple as a “matter of great concern.” Environmentalist Suresh Chopne also confirmed awareness of the continuous water level increase, stressing the need for immediate action.
Conservation Efforts and Lake Significance
The ASI is taking steps to protect the Kamalja temple. Arun Malik announced plans to construct an apron wall and a raised platform around the temple. This measure aims to safeguard the structure from further submergence and ensure continued accessibility for devotees, particularly during Dussehra festivities.
Lonar Lake holds international significance as a Ramsar Site . Formed approximately 50,000 years ago by a high-velocity meteor strike, it is the world’s largest basaltic impact crater. Its unique saline-alkaline waters and surrounding ecosystem are subjects of extensive research worldwide.
Strict Monitoring and Future Research
District Collector Kiran Patil emphasized that there is no artificial intervention within the crater. No water is pumped into or out of the lake. Strict regulations prevent activities like bathing, and the entire area remains under constant CCTV surveillance. Although the lake water is saline, a well near the Kamalja temple, which contains sweet water, is also now submerged.
Patil encouraged universities, students, and researchers to conduct further studies at Lonar. A dedicated laboratory is available to support scientific investigations. A specific study will now be carried out to determine any botanical or soil impacts caused by the reserve forest on the lake’s water levels.