Himachal Pradesh

This freshwater wetland, also called ‘the lake of the moon’ because of its crescent shape is located at an altitude of 4290 m asl, near the Kunjam Pass which connects the Great Himalayan and Pir Panjal Ranges. It has been designated as a ‘Wetland of International Importance’ under the Ramsar Convention, due to the presence of rare plants and a wide variety of unique animal species. The problems that Chandertal is facing are:

• Dumping of garbage and sewage in the pastures near the lake by visitors, during the tourist season 
• High pressure on pasturelands and overgrazing by livestock owned by shepherds 
• Unchecked number of vehicles allowed in the area
• Unmanaged and unregulated tourist activities
• Tourist camps on both sides of the lake during summer months

This oval-shaped lake is found at an altitude of 3,604 m asl, in the arid zone of Himachal Pradesh also called a ‘cold desert’, in the northwestern Himalayas. The dry hill soil is thick and fertile and the lake thus supports a wide array of floral, as well as, faunal species, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the region. However, Nako is facing the following threats:

• Solid waste left behind by visitors and tourists, particularly non biodegradable materials
• Huge construction activities on all sides of the lake
• Sewage from the Nako village entering into the lake