Udaipur: Udaipur, known worldwide as the “City of Lakes”, is facing a growing environmental and public health concern, with sewage and wastewater entering its water bodies and the Ayad River. A study conducted by Professor Devendra Singh Chauhan of Mohanlal Sukhadia University (MLSU) has raised serious questions about the quality of water in several major lakes of Udaipur and the impact of untreated wastewater on the city’s water ecosystem. As part of the study, water samples were collected from Fateh Sagar, Pichola, Doodh Talai, Badi Talab, Udai Sagar, Govardhan Sagar and Swaroop Sagar, along with multiple locations along the Ayad River. The samples were tested across 12 parameters, including pH, TDS, turbidity, alkalinity, sulphate, iron, chloride, E. coli and faecal coliform. 🚨 Udai Sagar emerges as the biggest concern Among the major water bodies studied, Udai Sagar emerged as the most polluted and concerning. According to the study, faecal coliform levels in Udai Sagar were found to be more than 1,600, while the permissible level referred to in the discussion is zero per 100 ml of water. The presence of faecal coliform and E. coli indicates contamination and can pose serious risks when polluted water enters the human water cycle. Professor Chauhan said the major concern is the direct movement of sewage through the Ayad River towards Udai Sagar. According to his observations, pollution levels increase progressively as the river moves through the city. 🌊 Ayad River shows increasing pollution The study also examined several points along the Ayad River, beginning near the Chikalwas feeder and extending towards Sukha Naka. The findings indicated a gradual increase in parameters such as faecal coliform, E. coli, TDS and turbidity as the river passes through the urban area. Visible signs of pollution, including soap foam and waste along sections of the river, were also observed during the field study. ⚠️ Swaroop Sagar also raises concern Swaroop Sagar was described as another highly polluted water body. According to Professor Chauhan, wastewater from surrounding colonies is entering the lake, while inadequate drainage and outflow arrangements are contributing to the accumulation of polluted water. During the field visit, dead fish were also reportedly observed in the lake. The study further points towards concerns related to the lake’s catchment area, construction activity and marble slurry dumping. 💧 Fateh Sagar and Pichola comparatively better The study found that Fateh Sagar and Pichola were comparatively better on several of the tested parameters. While some variations, including slightly elevated pH, were observed, faecal coliform was not detected in the samples collected from these two lakes. However, the study highlights the need to look beyond surface water and examine how pollution from lakes and rivers may affect groundwater. 🏠 Groundwater contamination could be the next concern One of the key concerns raised during the discussion was the impact on people dependent on borewells and hand pumps. If polluted water from rivers and lakes is allowed to seep into the ground, groundwater quality could also be affected. This becomes particularly significant in areas where households or buildings depend heavily on groundwater sources. The study therefore points towards the need for regular testing of groundwater in vulnerable areas. 🏛️ A warning for Udaipur’s historic water system Udaipur’s lakes are not merely scenic landmarks. They are part of a centuries-old water management system developed by the rulers of Mewar to secure water for the city and its people. The interconnected network of lakes, channels and rivers played a crucial role in sustaining Udaipur through generations. Today, that historic water system faces growing pressure from sewage, waste, construction and degradation of catchment areas. The question is no longer just about saving the lakes—it is about saving Udaipur’s identity. If the lakes and the Ayad River continue to deteriorate, the ecological and cultural foundation that has made Udaipur famous around the world could face a serious threat. The findings serve as an alarm bell for the administration, policymakers and citizens alike. Udaipur’s lakes need more than beautification. They need protection, scientific monitoring and effective sewage management. The challenge now is clear: Can the City of Lakes save the water system that built its identity?