Bajura, February 3

More than a dozen lakes with religious, historical and touristic significance are reeling under crisis due to the lack of conservation measures in remote Bajura district.

Khaptad Daha, Chhede Daha, Budhinanda, Kailash Tal, Rakshyas, Tribeni, Kalajagra, Gufa and Daune, among other lakes, are on the verge of extinction for want of protection, thanks to apathy on the part of the concerned authorities.

The district administration has failed to take any initiative to ensure the protection and promotion of these lakes.

There are no fences or tress to guard the lakes, lamented Amar Rawat, 80, of Kolti.

“Earlier, we used to drink water from the lakes as it was deemed holy. But now the lakes are completely polluted.

The number of wild animals and birds that inhabited the area around Chhede Daha, Daune and Budhinanda lakes is depleting due to lack of lake conservation,” regretted Rawat.

Though conservation and promotion of the lakes are inevitable for development and economic prosperity of the district, the administration has taken no significant initiative in this direction, said locals.