Water-quality findings reported from Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya have raised concerns over pollution, prompting authorities to work on measures to address the deterioration.
Nuwara Eliya District Coordinating Committee Chairman and MP Manjula Suraweera Arachchi said findings presented by the Central Environmental Authority showed significant changes in several water-quality indicators.
The findings were reported publicly this week.
What did the reported tests show?
According to the CEA data cited by Suraweera Arachchi, the lake recorded a phosphate level of 1.04 mg, compared with a cited normal level of around 0.20 mg.
The reported nitrogen level was 3.70 mg, compared with a cited normal level of approximately 0.50 mg.
Biochemical oxygen demand was reported at 9.72 mg.
These findings indicate deterioration in water quality.
However, individual measurements should be interpreted in the context of the relevant water-quality standards, sampling methods and intended use of the water.
Possible sources of pollution
Suraweera Arachchi said silting of smaller reservoirs and runoff containing fertilisers, pesticides, other chemicals and waste from surrounding agricultural areas had contributed to changes in the lake's water quality.
These explanations are attributed to the District Coordinating Committee chairman based on information presented to the committee.
Authorities plan response
The Ministry of Environment, Urban Development Authority and Irrigation Department are reported to be working through a joint committee to plan measures addressing the problem.
Gregory Lake is one of Nuwara Eliya's best-known landmarks and has environmental, recreational and tourism importance.
Key facts
- Location: Gregory Lake, Nuwara Eliya
- Reported phosphate: 1.04 mg
- Reported nitrogen: 3.70 mg
- Reported BOD: 9.72 mg
- Planned response: Joint work involving environment, urban development and irrigation authorities