Nestled in the serene hills of Meghalaya, about 15 kilometers north of Shillong, lies the breathtaking Umiam Lake also known locally as Barapani, meaning “Big Water.” This man-made reservoir, created by damming the Umiam River in the mid-1960s, is not only a marvel of engineering but also a vital ecological and economic asset to the region. As the first hydel power project in Northeast India, Umiam Lake has played a pivotal role in shaping the development trajectory of Meghalaya while offering a tranquil escape into nature’s lap.
Geography and Hydrography of Umiam Lake
Umiam Lake spans a
catchment area of approximately 220 square kilometers, encompassing Shillong,
its surrounding regions, and parts of the Ri Bhoi district. The lake is fed by
the confluence of two streams Umkhrah and Umshyrpi which merge to form the Wah
Ro-Ro stream northwest of Shillong. This stream eventually joins the Umiam
River, whose waters are impounded to form the lake.
The lake
is surrounded by lush coniferous forests, adding to its scenic charm and
ecological richness. The topography of the region, with its undulating hills
and dense vegetation, contributes to the lake’s hydrological dynamics,
influencing water flow, sedimentation, and nutrient cycling.
Ecological and Economic Significance
Umiam
Lake is a cornerstone of Meghalaya’s infrastructure and natural heritage. Its
ecological and economic contributions span multiple levels:
Hydropower Generation
- The lake was created as part
of a hydropower initiative, marking the beginning of electricity
generation in the Northeast.
- It continues to supply power
to various parts of Meghalaya, supporting both urban and rural
development.
Irrigation and Water Supply
- Umiam Lake supports downstream
irrigation, crucial for agriculture in the region.
- It also provides drinking
water to areas like the Rangmen Cantonment, although pollution has limited
its usability.
Fisheries
- The lake sustains local
fisheries, offering livelihood opportunities to communities around its
periphery.
- Fish diversity, however, is
under threat due to pollution and ecological imbalance.
Tourism
- Recognizing its potential,
the Meghalaya Tourism Department has developed Umiam Lake into a vibrant
tourist destination.
- Activities such as kayaking,
water cycling, scooting, and boating attract visitors from across India
and abroad.
- The lake’s picturesque
setting makes it a popular spot for photography, picnics, and nature
walks.
Ecological Challenges and Environmental Degradation
Despite
its beauty and utility, Umiam Lake faces a growing ecological crisis. The rapid
urbanization of Shillong has led to unchecked pollution, turning the lake into
a receptacle for urban waste.
Pollution and Toxicity
- The Central Pollution
Control Board (CPCB) has declared Umiam Lake polluted due to high levels
of sewage in its feeder rivers.
- The biological nature of the
lake has changed, rendering its water toxic for domestic use without
treatment.
- Only irrigation remains a
viable use without conventional purification.
Siltation
- An estimated 40,000 cubic
meters of silt enter the lake annually, drastically reducing its storage
capacity.
- Causes include
deforestation, upstream encroachments, unscientific mining, and blockage
of natural drainage systems.
- The excessive silt burden
threatens the lake’s longevity and its ability to support hydropower and
irrigation.
Biodiversity Loss
- Pollution and sedimentation
have disrupted aquatic ecosystems, affecting fish populations and other
aquatic life.
- The surrounding forests,
though still lush, are under pressure from human activities.
Conservation and Sustainable Management
The
future of Umiam Lake hinges on coordinated conservation efforts. While the
Meghalaya State Electricity Board manages the lake, tourism and environmental
agencies must collaborate to ensure its sustainability.
Potential Solutions
- Implementing strict waste
management protocols in Shillong to prevent sewage inflow.
- Reforestation and protection
of catchment areas to reduce siltation.
- Promoting eco-tourism that
emphasizes conservation and community involvement.
- Regular monitoring of water
quality and biodiversity by environmental agencies.
Cultural Belief and Folklore
Beyond
its physical and economic significance, Umiam Lake holds a poignant place in
local folklore. The name “Umiam” translates to “water of tears,” rooted in a
legend of two sisters who descended from heaven. One sister lost her way, and
the other, overwhelmed by grief, cried so profusely that her tears formed the
lake. This tale adds a layer of mystique and emotional depth to the lake’s
identity, connecting nature with human sentiment.
A Symbol of Nature and Resilience
Umiam Lake
is more than just a reservoir it is A Symbol of Meghalaya Natural
Beauty, cultural heritage, and developmental aspirations. Its shimmering
waters reflect both the promise and the peril of human interaction with nature.
As tourism grows and urban pressures mount, the lake stands as a reminder of
the delicate balance between progress and preservation.
To
truly honor Umiam Lake, efforts must be made not only to enjoy its beauty but
to protect its integrity. With thoughtful stewardship, this “water of tears”
can continue to inspire joy, sustain livelihoods, and power the dreams of
generations to come.