Mumbai: Once a scenic jewel of the city, Powai Lake is now in crisis. Overrun by water hyacinth and ignored by civic authorities, the lake’s deteriorating condition has sparked outrage among residents and environmentalists, who have launched the #SavePowaiLake campaign to restore the lake and its rich biodiversity.
Frustrated by years of neglect, citizens have written to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging immediate intervention to clear the invasive plant species and investigate possible sewage inflows feeding their growth.
“We’ve reached out to civic officials multiple times, but there’s been no action,” said Pamela Cheema, a resident of Jal Vayu Vihar. “The lake is suffocating—and so is our patience.”
Experts warn that unchecked hyacinth growth severely harms aquatic life by blocking sunlight and depleting oxygen levels. “Powai Lake is home to crocodiles, fish, and numerous bird species. The invasion of hyacinth is destroying this delicate ecosystem,” said B N Kumar, Director of NatConnect Foundation, in his letter to the CM.
Kumar also criticized the authorities for turning a blind eye: “Anyone driving past can see the shocking state of the lake. Why hasn’t it triggered action from elected representatives or civic officials?”
Despite announcements in the past about beautifying the area, no real work has been done, activists allege.
Photographic evidence of the lake’s sorry state, captured by activist Shabbir Tambawala, was shared with government officials along with an online petition now gathering momentum.
“Powai Lake is not just a waterbody—it’s a living legacy,” said Milan Bhat, a resident of Hiranandani Gardens, who has taken the campaign online. “We’re calling on every Mumbaikar to share why this lake matters. Your voice can help us revive it.”
To build ground-level support, residents have also begun a signature drive. “This is about protecting not just a lake, but a piece of our city’s natural heritage,” said Gitanjali Dhulekar from Jal Vayu Vihar.
As the campaign gains traction online and offline, residents hope their collective voice will push authorities to act—before it’s too late for Powai Lake.
