Himachal Pradesh: Dal Lake of Naddi, once the cynosure of all eyes and a tourist attraction in Dharamsala, has dried up completely. With no water, the serene look of tall deodar trees that once adorned its lush green waters has vanished. Considered one of the most beautiful places in Mcleodganj, the lake holds immense cultural and religious significance. Recently on September 11, after the rainy season, devotees gathered at the lake for the holy Radha Ashtami bath. Popularly known as ‘Mini Manimahesh’, Dal Lake was a place of religious significance for those who could not undertake the arduous Manimahesh Yatra. It is believed that till the late 1970s, the bottom of the lake was covered with soft, green grass, a fact confirmed by the presence of the Durveshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on its banks.
Prem Sagar, a traveller and historian, threw light on the historical significance of the lake, especially for the Gaddi community. He recalled that the lake water remained clear until the early 1980s. However, construction activities in the surrounding areas led to siltation, although the lake bed remained firm despite heavy rains. Sagar said that in 2010, the lake’s water holding capacity started declining after heavy rains disrupted plans to introduce boating and boost tourism, which locals attribute to an angry Nag Devta (serpent god).
Subsequent attempts to revive the lake, including an unplanned digging by the Public Works Department, caused further damage. Recently, the Jal Shakti Department attempted to plug the lake’s leakage using sand from Rajasthan, but the attempt failed, causing the lake to dry up once again. Adding to the tragedy, Dal Lake was once teeming with a variety of fish, which never caught on due to a local curse. With no water left, the future of the lake’s aquatic life is now grim. The destruction of Dal Lake not only represents a loss of natural beauty but also raises concerns about the dwindling heritage of Dharamshala and its once rich ecosystem.
