Why in news?
The Nagpur Municipal Corporation began a large‑scale removal of water hyacinth from Ambazari Lake in May 2026 using hi‑tech harvester machines. The operation aims to clear invasive weeds before the onset of the monsoon and restore the lake’s ecological balance.
Background
Ambazari Lake lies on the south‑western edge of Nagpur and is the largest of the city’s eleven lakes. It was built around 1870 during the Bhonsle dynasty to supply drinking water to the city. The lake takes its name from the mango trees (amba in Marathi) that once surrounded its banks. Ambazari forms the headwaters of the Nag River and is accompanied by a public garden established in 1958, covering about 18 acres.
The water hyacinth problem
Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is an invasive aquatic plant that spreads rapidly across the surface of lakes and rivers. Its dense mats block sunlight, reduce oxygen levels, impede navigation and serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. If left unchecked, it can choke water bodies, harming fish and other aquatic life and making the water unsuitable for recreation or drinking.
Key features of the clean‑up
- Advanced machinery: The city deployed harvester machines that can each remove about 4.5–5 tonnes of water hyacinth per operation and clear up to two acres of weeds per day. Additional excavators (Pokland and JCB machines) assist in cutting and lifting the vegetation.
- Funding: The equipment was procured under the Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana and the District Mineral Foundation scheme, which channel mineral revenue for community welfare.
- Waste management: Removed plants are collected and composted or transported to designated disposal sites to prevent re‑infestation.
Why this matters
- Restoring the lake improves water quality, supports fish and birdlife and reduces mosquito breeding.
- A clean lake enhances recreation and tourism, benefiting local residents and visitors.
- The initiative demonstrates how urban bodies can use technology and government funding to tackle environmental challenges.
Conclusion
Ambazari Lake is both a historic water source and a green lung for Nagpur. The removal of water hyacinth using modern equipment will restore the lake’s ecological health and set a precedent for managing invasive species in urban water bodies across India.