Authorities identify hundreds of violations around Upper Lake, but removal remains slow as Ramsar site faces ongoing pressure

Encroachments Choke Bada Talab

Bhopal's iconic Bada Talab, also known as Upper Lake, continues to face severe encroachment threats, with surveys revealing widespread violations in its buffer zone. Officials have identified numerous illegal structures, including houses, hotels, and boundary walls built perilously close to the Full Tank Level (FTL).

Surveys Reveal Scale of Violations

Recent demarcation drives across zones like TT Nagar and Bairagarh have flagged significant encroachments. In TT Nagar circle, 127 violations were marked, with 59 private and 78 government-related. Bairagarh saw 220 cases, where removal efforts are reportedly underway. Overall, reports point to hundreds of structures within prohibited areas, many within 50 metres of the FTL in urban stretches.

NGT Directives Spark Action

The National Green Tribunal has repeatedly pulled up authorities for delays in protecting the lake, a designated Ramsar site of international importance. Following NGT rebukes and petitions highlighting sewage inflow and boundary violations, fresh surveys gained momentum. In early 2026, revenue teams identified 153 illegal structures within the 50-metre buffer in key areas, prompting a pre-Holi crackdown under Wetlands Rules.

Influential Structures Under Scanner

Encroachments involve private bungalows, swimming pools, farmhouses, and commercial setups. Hotels such as Jahannuma, Sayaji, Wind and Waves, and restaurants near Van Vihar have come under scrutiny. Government constructions, tourism facilities like the boat club, and even slums along the shoreline feature in lists. In areas like Sewania Gond, Bishankhedi, and Surajnagar, fencing, tin sheds, and permanent buildings stand within restricted zones.

Historical Neglect and Multiple Surveys

Past efforts have yielded limited results. A 2016 DGPS survey pegged the lake's area at 38.72 sq km but the report stayed buried. Subsequent checks found missing FTL pillars—only 802 of 943 located, with many submerged or vanished. Despite Supreme Court and NGT directions for demarcation, encroachments persisted. Experts note no construction is permitted within 50 metres in urban areas, yet violations continue unabated.

Sewage and Environmental Risks

Sewage from dozens of drains flows into the lake, worsening pollution. Environmentalists point to land mafia tactics, including fake pillars confusing boundaries and low-priced plot sales. The catchment area sees farmhouses and resorts crowding edges in villages like Bhadbhada and Gauragaon.

Impact on Bhopal's Lifeline

As a vital water source and biodiversity hub hosting rare birds, Bada Talab's degradation threatens Bhopal's ecological balance and drinking water security. Public health concerns rise with untreated inflows, while the Ramsar status demands stricter conservation under Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017.

What Lies Ahead for Lake Protection

Authorities have issued notices and begun some removals, but large-scale action awaits. A task force monitors progress, with demarcation targeted before festivals. MP Alok Sharma has pushed for a master plan, and CM directions emphasise fresh surveys. Sustained enforcement will determine if the lake's lifeline can be reclaimed before irreversible damage sets in.