National
Govt pledges to protect Fewa and Rupa lakes
The government has drawn its attention towards the increasing pollution and uncontrolled spread of invasive plant species at Fewa Lake in Kaski district, one of the major tourist destinations.The government has drawn its attention towards the increasing pollution and uncontrolled spread of invasive plant species at Fewa Lake in Kaski district, one of the major tourist destinations.
A meeting of concerned representatives held on Sunday at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) decided to direct the concerned ministries including Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation, Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development and Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation to initiate conservation efforts to revive Fewa lake into its natural form by controlling pollution and invasion of water hyacinth.
Authorities are concerned over the degradation of Fewa lake due to various factors including mix-up with water released through flooding and landslide events in recent times.
Over the years, the uncontrolled spread of water hyacinth and increased pollution from unmanaged tourist activities has further deteriorated the water quality and scenic beauty of the lake.
The meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Som Lal Subedi also discussed about the degrading state of Rupa lake in Kaski that is undergoing severe threats from invasive species, causing the lake bed to rise from deposition.
The PMO has further directed the concerned authorities to come up with effective conservation and development measures to improve the environment and biodiversity of Rupa Lake. The PMO office has also asked concerned local bodies and departments to ensure regular monitoring on the status of both Fewa and Rupa lakes.