Maharashtra’s Lonar lake swells 20 foot after months-long inflow, formed by meteorite impact; HC takes cognisance, orders PIL

NAGPUR: The Nagpur Bench of the high court has taken cognisance of reports on the rising water level in Lonar lake and filed a suo motu public interest litigation, following concerns that the lake and surrounding biodiversity are at risk.The lake water has been rising since September, with continuous flow from four sources and springs around the lake surface. The exact reason for the rise in water level is yet to be established, and proper scientific research is awaited. Lonar lake was formed by a meteorite impact on basalt rocks and is considered important for international-level research, attracting tourists and researchers. The water level initially rose during the 2025 monsoon but the water flow that started from September is still continuing.As the water level rose, various temples of Mahadev along the lake submerged. The lamp tower in front of the temple, previously fully visible, is now half underwater. It is estimated that the water level has risen by 15 to 20 foot from the point where the open part was visible. On govt orders, groundwater expert professor Ashok Tejankar from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, along with tehsildar Bhushan Patil, inspected the lake. It was also reported that a survey of the lake will be conducted. Taking cognisance, the HC division bench of Justice Anil Kilor and Raj Wakode court ordered filing of a suo motu public interest litigation. Advocate Mohit Khajanchi has been appointed as amicus curiae and has been directed to file PIL within next seven days.The Kamalja Mata temple first went underwater, and over time water entered the sanctum sanctorum. Devotees visiting the temple said the water level has been rising rapidly for the last 3-4 months. Even fish are seen in this water, destroying biodiversity of the saline water lake, said environmentalists.