Nainital’s iconic Naini Lake is facing a severe drop in dissolved oxygen levels, putting fish and other aquatic life at risk. The artificial aeration system installed on the lakebed nearly 18 years ago has deteriorated, with disc diffusers now damaged, pipes leaking, and several lines no longer supplying oxygen.

The issue came to light after Principal Secretary (Housing) R. Meenakshi Sundaram sought a status report from the Nainital Development Authority. Officials confirmed that a Rs 5.7 crore estimate and DPR for repairing the aeration system have been prepared and forwarded to the government. The Housing Department has initiated the budget approval process. Officials say that once funds are sanctioned, repair work will begin immediately, bringing “fresh oxygen bubbles” back to the dying lake.

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NDA Secretary Vijaynath Shukla said a survey for repair needs has already been completed. “As soon as the budget is approved, work on the discs will start. This will revive Naini Lake’s ecosystem,” he added.

The aeration system, installed in 2007, was meant to be repaired every five years. However, no major repairs have taken place since 2012, leading to:

- 6 pipes from two flow meters are failing completely

- Several pipes supplying oxygen at extremely low pressure

- Reports of burst pipes and oxygen leakage

Why Aeration Is Critical

- Maintains dissolved oxygen levels

- Supports fish and aquatic organisms

- Controls algae growth

- Improves water quality and prevents foul odour

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Currently, the lake receives artificial oxygen 24×7, but measurements show dissolved oxygen levels ranging from 3.8 to 8.8 mg/L, with dangerously low readings in deeper zones.

The compressor pumps air into diffusers placed on the lakebed. These diffusers release air as microscopic bubbles, which rise through the water, increasing oxygen levels, especially in the deeper depths where natural oxygenation is insufficient.

Officials hope that once repairs begin, Naini Lake’s declining health can be restored, protecting one of Uttarakhand’s most famous natural landmarks.