Rara Lake’s natural beauty threatened by encroaching vegetation

Mugu / Dec 29: Rara Lake, the largest water body in Nepal, known for its natural beauty, is facing growing encroachment due to an increase in vegetation around its shores. This rapid spread of vegetation is affecting the lake’s pristine environment and its ecological balance.

Nanda Singh Rokaya, a teacher from Murma in Chhayanath Municipality, believes that the growing vegetation around the lake is damaging its ecosystem. He noted that the once-clear, radiant blue waters and the fresh atmosphere of the lake are now being overshadowed by the overgrowth of plants. “The lake’s water was much clearer when I was young. These days, it has started to smell as well,” he said.

While the Rara National Park Office acknowledges the importance of cleaning the lake, a lack of sufficient resources and budget has hindered efforts to address the issue. Despite this, the office remains committed to preserving the lake’s beauty and essence.

Mahesh Neupane, the Senior Conservation Officer at the park, mentioned that a cleanup campaign is planned for the western part of the lake, including Nijar and other areas. The campaign is expected to be launched soon.

Experts have recommended that the authorities take a strategic, planned approach to control the spread of vegetation, clean the lake area, and protect the region’s biodiversity in a sustainable manner. RSS