A vision for Nepal’s sustainable ecosystem

Nepal is blessed with breathtaking landscapes with scores of serene lakes spread over her terrain. As a matter of fact, each body of water, whether nestled in the bustling heart of Kathmandu, adorning the tranquil Pokhara Valley, or gracing the sacred lakes of the Tarai, harbor unique narratives.

In this context, a recent report from the National Lakes Conservation Development Committee serves as a revealing testament to the extensive expanse of this aquatic realm—a staggering 5,358 lakes, including 2,323 glacial gems, interspersed throughout the nation.

Rich aquatic beauty 

The captivating tapestry of aquatic beauty gives a vivid picture that Nepal has myriad lakes with natural wonders, radiating a distinct charisma. Take, for instance, the enchanting Phewa, Begnas and Rupa, with their mirrored surfaces reflecting the surrounding Himalayan splendor.

In Pokhara, the pristine Maidi, Deepang and Knaste add to the allure, creating a mosaic of tranquil oases amidst the hills. Further afield, the mystical Gosaikunda and Syapru in Rasuwa beckon with their mystical ambiance, captivating all who venture into their high-altitude embrace. These are but a few examples among the multitude that captivates visitors, embodying the ecological and cultural diversity of Nepal.

Lakes such as Beeshazari in Chitwan and Ghodaghodi in Kailali are not merely bodies of water; they are sacred sites revered by local communities. The Newar community, deeply rooted in their heritage, cherishes lakes like Boje Pokhari, Boke Daha, Godavari Kunda, Lagankhel Pokhari, Naag Daha, and Pimbahal Pokhari. These water bodies, embedded in the cultural fabric, stand as integral components of Nepal's identity, each ripple echoing the tales of generations past.

Global economic driver

Highlighting this treasure trove of natural wonders, among others, Nepal Tourism Board had envisioned attracting one million tourists in 2023. The tourism industry, constituting Nepal’s fourth-largest employer according to the Central Bureau of Statistics, hinges substantially on the allure of these shimmering waters.

The lakes of the Tarai, with their special significance during the Chhath festival, contribute to the religious and cultural tapestry of the nation, drawing in visitors from around the globe. These aquatic marvels, woven into the economic fabric of Nepal, are not merely destinations but economic pillars, sustaining livelihoods and contributing to the nation’s global appeal. Chhath advocates for cleanliness of waters because it’s a festival celebrating the sanctity of waters.

Emerging threats

Harmful algae blooms (HABs) have surged, causing ripples of concern that reverberate not only within the nation but across the global environmental consciousness. These rampant algal growths, fueled by a complex interplay of climate change, pollution and nutrient runoff, pose a threat to both the delicate ecosystems and human health.

The lakes around the hilly regions and the Tarai, particularly susceptible to the warming temperatures, now find themselves in the midst of ecological challenges that transcends borders.

Global implications

In the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, Nepal’s economy found itself grappling with challenges. The exacerbation of harmful algae blooms only serves to intensify the economic strain. HABs release toxins like microcystin, cylindrospermopsin, Anatoxin-a, and saxitoxin that infiltrate the nervous system, unleashing a foul, pungent odor and distorting the natural beauty of these once-pristine lakes.

The impact extends beyond the visual, affecting aquatic life and posing health risks to humans and animals upon contact. As a delicate ecosystem falters, water quality plummets, and the laborious and expensive cleanup efforts take a toll on Nepal’s economy, the global implications of such environmental degradation cannot be ignored.

Technological strides

Advanced testing methods, such as the chlorophyll test, phosphorus test, QPCR technology and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry, provide critical tools for identifying cyanotoxins globally. Investing in training for laboratory technicians and researchers, a shared responsibility, strengthens our collective ability to detect these harmful substances. Cutting-edge approaches, such as the use of photocatalyst nanoparticles for efficient cyanotoxin decomposition, offer a promising avenue for a sustainable future.

Striking the delicate balance between progress and conservation remains a daunting yet crucial task for the entire world.

In 2019, the US Environmental Protection Agency established water quality standards for microcystins and cylindrospermopsin, emphasizing legal compliance and setting a global precedent. Nepal, along with nations worldwide, must follow suit by implementing strict regulations to protect water resources. Local initiatives worldwide, such as the Lake George Association and the Lake Hopatcong Foundation, stand as inspiring examples of how communities can collectively tackle environmental challenges, providing a template for global cooperation.

Way forward

It’s high time to invest in strategies and action measures for preserving our shared global heritage. Early detection, recognized as a global imperative, could stand as the first line of defense.

One key strategy in the fight against harmful algae blooms could be the control of nutrient runoff originating from agricultural activities — a challenge shared not only by Nepal but by nations worldwide.

The dissemination of knowledge and capacity-building training to farmers about responsible agricultural practices could appear as a magic stick for reducing the influx of nutrients into the water, subsequently stifling the growth of harmful toxins.

The utilization of cutting-edge technology, such as membrane filtration and chemical treatments, could be taken not just as a national initiative but as a beacon of hope for water bodies worldwide. Investments in water treatment facilities, which is essential for both developed and developing nations, could become instrumental in purifying the waters that quench our collective thirst and sustain our global ecosystems.

Algicides, when applied strategically at the initial stages of bloom development, have the potential to significantly enhance treatment effectiveness and lower toxin concentrations globally. The method of toxin adsorption, employing materials like activated carbon, emerges not only as a national solution but as a blueprint for global water quality management. 

Nepal’s lakes are not just serene bodies of water; they are cultural symbols, economic pillars and environmental treasures. Their protection is not just an environmental obligation but a cultural and economic imperative that resonates globally. Through a combination of legislative action, technological innovation and global collaborative efforts, Nepal can protect her lakes for generations to come, setting an example for the world. The choice is clear: Safeguard these gems or risk their loss forever. It’s a wake-up call to every global citizen to rally for safeguarding Nepal’s aquatic treasures, ensuring their beauty remains unspoiled, their cultural significance endures, and their economic potential flourishes for generations to come.

The author is pursuing a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, US