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Ooty Resort Fined for Polluting Iconic Lake
1 Feb
Summary
- A private resort was fined ₹10,000 for dumping waste near Ooty Lake.
- Ooty Lake is a vital habitat for diverse bird and mammal species.
- Reserve forests are also being used as illegal dumping sites.
The Udhagamandalam Municipality (UMC) has imposed a ₹10,000 fine on a private resort for illegally dumping waste beside the ecologically vital Ooty Lake. This action comes as part of a broader effort to curb littering around the lake and in nearby reserve forests, which have become open dumping grounds.
Sanitation staff have been instructed to monitor these areas due to the increasing problem of waste disposal by both residents and businesses. Activists have noted that areas like Fern Hill, Gorishola, and Lovedale are particularly affected, with reserve forests also used for illegal dumping.
During an investigation, UMC officials found evidence within the waste, including receipts, that directly implicated the resort located along the Ooty-Gudalur Road. Following an inspection and a meeting with the resort's management, the fine was issued, accompanied by a warning of stricter penalties for future violations.
The municipality is also appealing to the public to practice waste segregation and utilize the door-to-door collection services to manage waste effectively and protect sensitive ecological sites like Ooty Lake.
