Navi Mumbai residents seek Conservation Reserve status for lake

Residents of Navi Mumbai are calling for DPS Lake to be designated as a Conservation Reserve. They submitted a letter with over 1,200 signatures to the forest department, emphasizing the need to protect the area's biodiversity and limit development. The lake, part of a wetland ecosystem, has faced issues due to blocked pipes that have dried up much of its water. Environmentalists say this has harmed local wildlife, including flamingos that rely on the lake for food and rest. A state committee previously recommended the Conservation Reserve status and reopening blocked pipes to restore the lake. However, no action has been taken by the City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra Ltd. The forest department is reviewing the residents' request.