Sri Lankan authorities have established a special management committee to tackle deteriorating water quality at Lake Gregory in Nuwara Eliya, with immediate and long-term interventions planned to protect both the environment and the region's tourism economy.
Government officials have initiated a coordinated response to address worsening pollution in Lake Gregory following a high-level inspection and meeting convened by Deputy Minister of Environment Anton Jayakody. The meeting at the Nuwara Eliya District Secretariat brought together representatives from multiple agencies including the Central Environmental Authority, Sri Lanka Navy, Municipal Council, and several national water and development bodies to develop an integrated action plan.
A dedicated Management Committee has been established to oversee both immediate and sustained interventions aimed at preventing further ecological damage to the lake. Officials identified the reactivation of a 13-pond natural treatment system as a priority, designed to filter agricultural runoff and urban wastewater before they reach the lake. The committee will also explore strengthening natural aeration and introducing filtration methods to address odour issues and improve overall water quality.
Specific technical concerns were highlighted during discussions, particularly the need to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations that can trigger excessive nutrient enrichment and ecosystem deterioration. Authorities emphasised preventing wastewater discharge from Nuwara Eliya's municipal sewerage network and other pollution sources as a critical measure. Long-term infrastructure proposals are being expedited to provide sustainable solutions to the pollution problem.
Government officials stressed that protecting Lake Gregory extends beyond environmental stewardship, recognising its significance as a major tourist attraction for Nuwara Eliya. Authorities indicated that prompt implementation of agreed measures would be essential to restore ecological health while preserving the lake's scenic value and economic importance to the region.
