Tuesday, August 7, 2012

Know More About The Crocodiles in Powai Lake

Around it a set of posh buildings have emerged and the Lake was thought to be beautified. The lake will also be cleaned and desalted, which by itself is a good thing. But people who matter have not thought of the crocodiles that inhabit this lake.
The beautification of the lake and its surroundings must take into account the welfare of the original inhabitants of this lake, the crocodiles. These number about 70 in all and have been home here for many decades. There is no doubt that the crocodile life style will be affected adversely after the entire beautification plan is gone through.
Firstly the crocodiles may not have access to the shores of the lake. The crocodiles use these shores every day to bask in the sun. The culprit is the constructed parapet walls which will be too steep for the crocodiles to climb and come onto the land. It is matter of regret that nobody thought of the crocs in the lake, so intent they were in trying to beautify the lake for man.
The crocodiles are a precious commodity and in the present environment, where wild life is at a premium, their survival is in the interest of everybody. The lake itself needs to be cleaned and is still dirty with sea weeds and garbage floating around. In fact during the immersion festivals during Ganpathy pollute the Lake to no end. This also needs to stop. Surely no God wills continence destruction of any natural habitat.
It should not be forgotten that along with the crocs, the lake is a habitat for several bird species, who will also be disturbed with the water fountains in the lake at a number of places. It is a matter of regret that no wild life expert was consulted for this beautification drive. It is still not late and it is hoped that the natural habitat of the crocs in Powai Lake will not be destroyed.