Daijiworld Media Network - Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai, Apr 12: Environmentalists have raised serious concerns over sewage contamination at the DPS Flamingo Lake in Nerul, declaring a wetland emergency across key waterbird habitats within the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary, a globally recognised Ramsar site.

Environmental groups have demanded the immediate reopening of the lake’s main southern water channel from the creek, which they allege was blocked during construction of an access road to a water transport terminal.

According to a statement by the NatConnect Foundation, expert opinion suggests that the lake water has turned toxic due to organic waste, rendering it unsuitable as a feeding ground for water birds.

Highlighting the ecological impact, NatConnect director B N Kumar said flamingos have not arrived at the lake this season, indicating a serious disturbance in habitat conditions.

The situation has worsened with thick layers of algae covering the water surface, turning the lake into sludge-like conditions. Experts noted that such algae growth makes it unsuitable for flamingos to rest or roost.

Environmentalists also reported froth and traces of oil on the water surface, suggesting possible inflow of urban or industrial sewage. A major drain reportedly connects to the lake, allowing contaminated water to enter during tidal movements.

Conservationist Jyoti Nadkarni said stagnant water that is not flushed out during low tide is contributing to the algae bloom. She warned that polluted water disrupts the ecosystem, affecting microorganisms and small fish that form the primary food source for flamingos.

Sandeep Sareen of the Navi Mumbai Environment Preservation Society expressed shock over the presence of froth on the wetland, while Rekha Sankhala, convenor of the Save Mangroves & Flamingos Forum, called for urgent ecological restoration and continuous monitoring.

Water sample tests conducted earlier by SSAS Laboratory revealed severe ecological stress, with key indicators such as TDS, pH, BOD and COD far exceeding safe limits, pointing to heavy organic and chemical pollution.

NatConnect had earlier escalated the issue to the Prime Minister’s Office on World Water Day, following which the Centre referred the matter to the Maharashtra State Wetland Authority.

Environmentalists have urged immediate intervention to restore the fragile habitat and revive its famed flamingo population.