Ujani Dam Suffers Ecological Collapse

An ecological crisis is unfolding at Maharashtra's Ujani dam, a crucial reservoir and Important Bird Area. Scientific assessments indicate dangerously poor water quality, primarily due to untreated sewage and chemical effluents flowing in through the Bhima river. This pollution has created thick, foul-smelling scum, signaling severe eutrophication and oxygen depletion, which threaten biodiversity.

The reservoir's ecosystem is further stressed by invasive alien species, including water hyacinth and plants like Ipomoea, alongside fish such as Tilapia and African Catfish. These invasives are outcompeting native species, disrupting the food web and accelerating biodiversity loss. The Suckermouth Catfish, in particular, damages fishing nets, causing economic hardship for local fishermen.