Home / Environment / Sukhna Lake Oil Spill: Boating Halted Amid Probe
Sukhna Lake Oil Spill: Boating Halted Amid Probe
17 Jan
Summary
- Oil spill detected in Sukhna Lake, prompting immediate boating suspension.
- Steamer boat operation suspected as preliminary cause of the oil leakage.
- Lake's ecological status as a national wetland and 'living entity' is highlighted.

Sukhna Lake is currently grappling with an oil spill, prompting authorities to halt all boating operations indefinitely. The exact source of the contamination is under investigation, though initial findings point towards a steamer boat as a possible cause.
CPCC member secretary Saurabh Kumar has directed a complete ban on oil-powered boats on the lake until further notice. Authorities are examining CCTV footage from the past two days to pinpoint the origin of the oil and identify responsible parties. Sukhna Lake, declared a national wetland in 1988 and recognized as a 'living entity' by the high court in 2020, is a vital ecosystem.
This man-made, rain-fed lake supports diverse aquatic life and is a key focus for conservation. A five-year development plan is in place, overseen by a dedicated wetland authority, to protect its ecological balance and prevent water pollution.



