‘Lead, cadmium, arsenic detected’: Dal Lake water unsafe as pollution levels exceed WHO safety limits, study finds

Srinagar: A scientific study has revealed very high levels of heavy metal contamination in Dal Lake, one of Kashmir’s most famous tourist attractions. Researchers in May 2024 research found that the lake water contains toxic metals such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, and molybdenum at levels much higher than permissible limits, endangering both human health and the lake’s ecosystem.

According to the study published in the Heliyon journal, the highest concentration of lead (6.82 ppb) was recorded at Hazratbal, while cadmium levels peaked at Brarinambal. The researchers mentioned that heavy metal content in Dal Lake exceeds World Health Organisation (WHO) standards, which poses serious risks of kidney damage, respiratory problems, and other health issues.

The study also examined the economic importance of the lake. Using public surveys and valuation methods, the researchers estimated that Dal Lake generates over Rs 16 crore annually through floating gardens, tourism, and related activities. Nearly 68% of people surveyed expressed willingness to pay for the lake’s restoration.

As per the report, untreated sewage, oil spills from motorboats, and urban waste are the main sources of pollution. The report warns that if immediate conservation steps are not taken, the degradation of Dal Lake will not only damage the ecosystem but also hurt Kashmir’s economy and tourism sector.

The research was carried out by Siraj Yousuf Parray, Simranjeet Singh, Bhupendra Koul, Nadeem A. Khan, Praveen C. Ramamurthy, and Joginder Singh.