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After six years of petitions, protests, and delays, the long-neglected Lokhandwala Lake in Andheri West is finally set for a clean-up. The semi-wild waterbody, once home to over 150 species of birds and a diverse aquatic ecosystem, has been damaged by invasive species, algae, and illegal dumping. Now, thanks to sustained efforts by local residents and activists, a No Objection Certificate has been issued, a contractor appointed, and machines are ready to begin the desilting work. Environmentalists hope this marks the beginning of serious efforts to restore the lake's biodiversity and prevent further damage from encroachments and neglect.
Lokhandwala Lake in Andheri West,Mumbai, a once-thriving semi-natural lake, is finally going to be cleaned after six years of community protests, petitions, and bureaucratic delays. This long-overdue project was triggered by local residents and environmental groups who raised concerns about pollution, algae growth, and habitat loss due to human negligence. Advertisement
The lake is home to over 150 species of birds and about 10 fish species. Surrounded by mangroves, the area is ecologically sensitive, yet over the years, it has been choked by dumped waste, religious offerings, furniture, and construction debris. Trucks were even seen offloading material directly into the water two years ago, further threatening the ecosystem.
Persistent follow-ups by local citizens, especially the Lokhandwala-Oshiwara Residents Association (LOCA), finally led to action. They wrote emails, held meetings with BMC officials, and even got the Human Rights Commission involved. With pressure mounting, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) was issued to Mhada and a contractor was appointed for cleanup. An official launch ceremony is scheduled shortly, after which machines will begin removing sludge and garbage.
The clean-up plan involves de-weeding the lake, desilting, and installing safeguards to prevent future dumping. Residents have also requested security cameras to monitor the lake and suggested using scientific methods to improve aquatic life, including fish restocking and native plant regeneration.
Notably, the area has been under consideration for protected status. In 2022, Maharashtra's Environment Minister Aaditya Thackeray had pushed to declare the surrounding mangrove zone as forest land. Locals hope this move will eventually help the lake get designated as a biodiversity park or conservation site.
Cleaning up the lake is not just about aesthetics. It is crucial for urban biodiversity, flood control, and providing green lungs in the congested western suburbs of Mumbai. With the project finally taking shape, residents hope this marks a new chapter in the protection of Mumbai's few remaining natural ecosystems.
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