Project Title: Assessment of Selected Endangered Lakes and Formulation of Evidence-based Rejuvenation Plans in the South and West Districts of Sikkim
1. Project Details
Sanction Date: 20.03.2025
Project Category MG
Year 2024-2025
Project Duration 3 Years
BTA : WRM
Project Site/ State/ Districts/ Villages Covered:

Sikkim

Organization/ Implementation Agency: Sikkim University, Gangtok, Sikkim
Project Partners: S.No. Name
1. GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, Sikkim Regional Centre, Gangtok, Sikkim
1. Rural Management Development Department (RMDD) Government of Sikkim.
1. Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA), Government of Sikkim.
Lead Proponent:

Prof. Anil K. Misra
Sikkim University Gangtok, Sikkim

Project Brief Description: Lakes in Sikkim are crucial for providing water to local communities, supporting agricultural practices, and promoting tourism. Traditionally, many of these lakes were perennial, serving as reliable water sources. However, since the 2011 earthquake, a notable shift has occurred, with many lakes transitioning to seasonal bodies of water, especially in the South and West Sikkim regions. These areas are primarily located within seismic zone IV, and some portions in zone V, indicating a significant seismic activity. A seismic micro-zonation study indicates that regions such as Namchi in South Sikkim and Gyalshing and Soreng in West Sikkim frequently experience microtremors and earthquakes (Nath, 2004). These seismic events likely contribute to the development of fractures and joints in the subsurface geology, which can affect water retention in lakes. Research suggests that such frequent seismic activity may enhance water seepage in these lakes, altering their hydrological status significantly. For instance, a detailed case study of the "poison lake" in West Sikkim uncovered substantial subsurface fractures that act as major conduits for water seepage (Misra et al., 2022). This highlights the urgent need for comprehensive geophysical studies across other lakes in the region to evaluate the extent of these fractures and their impacts on lake hydrology. Further, it is also necessary to investigate the correlation between microtremors and earthquake activity with the density of fractures in and around the lakes, to better understand the geological stability and depletion of lakes and springs in the region. In response to the alarming decline in lake water levels, the Sikkim government has implemented various measures aimed at replenishing these vital water bodies. Initiatives include piping spring water from remote sources, covering lake surfaces with impermeable geo-membranes, and undertaking concrete work on lake surfaces, alongside constructing check dams. Despite significant financial investment amounting to several crores of rupees, these efforts have largely proven ineffective due to the persistent issue of lake water seepage. The primary challenge lies in the untreated subsurface fractures that accelerate the drying of lakes over a short period. Without addressing these underlying geological problems, meaningful restoration efforts remain severely impeded. This not only threatens local ecosystems but also jeopardizes the livelihoods of communities that depend on these water bodies for agriculture and tourism. To effectively tackle these challenges, a thorough geophysical investigation is essential. The present study will focus on mapping the depth, orientation, and density of existing subsurface fractures and also try to understand the correlation between fracture density and seismic activities in the region. The insights gained from such investigations could inform the development of an evidence-based lake replenishment plan. This plan will address the root causes of water loss, and will also bolster tourism, thereby supporting the local economy and enhancing ecosystem restoration efforts. Ultimately, a proactive approach combining scientific research with community engagement could pave the way for sustainable management of Sikkim’s precious lakes.
Beneficiaries/ Stakeholders:

• Local Communities:
Local residents, particularly those dependent on agriculture and tourism, will benefit significantly from enhanced water availability. The project aims to restore lakes and springs, ensuring a reliable water supply for farming and recreational activities, thus improving livelihoods.
• Farmers:
Farmers in the region will experience increased crop yields due to better access to water resources, supporting sustainable agricultural practices, enhancing food security and economic stability for farming families.
• Tourism Industry:
The revitalization of lakes will boost the tourism sector in Sikkim. Tourists are attracted to healthy, vibrant ecosystems, and improved lake conditions can lead to increased visitation, benefiting local businesses and the economy.
• Local Governments and Authorities:
Sikkim government departments will gain valuable insights and data that can inform policy decisions and resource management strategies. This project provides a scientific basis for developing effective water management plans and responding to environmental challenges.
• Researchers and Academics:
Scholars and scientists will benefit from the project’s findings, which contribute to the body of knowledge on hydrology, geology, and sustainable management practices. Collaborative opportunities may arise for further research and development in the region.
• Environmental Organizations:
Non-governmental organizations focused on environmental conservation will gain valuable information for advocacy and conservation efforts. The project aligns with goals to protect natural resources and promote sustainable development.

Activity Chart
2. Financial Details
Total Grants (in Rs.) Rs. 23,504,160/-(Rupees Two Crore Thirty-Five Lakh Four Thousand One Hundred Sixty Only)
3. Project Objectives, Deliverables and Monitoring Indicators
Project Objectives Quantifiable Deliverables Monitoring Indicators
• To analyze the spatial distribution, depth, orientation, and density of fractures, joints, and vulnerable zones by surface and subsurface geoelectrical mapping in selected lakes.
• To establish a correlation between microtremors and earthquake activity with the density of fractures in and around the lakes, towards better understanding the geological stability and depletion of water bodies.
• To develop an evidence-based, holistic strategy for the rejuvenation and sustainable management of lakes, ensuring ecological health and resilience.
• To conduct the Capacity-building programs for local communities, stakeholder and researchers for water security, spring shed management, and thus overall sustainable development of natural resources.
• High-resolution geoelectrical maps indicating fracture networks, structural weaknesses, and potential recharge/discharge areas of the lakes.
• Data-driven analysis on geological stability and hydrological shifts due to seismic activities.
• A strategic lake rejuvenation and water conservation plan incorporating geological, hydrological, and ecological factors.
• Training sessions and workshops on sustainable lake conservation strategies. • Policy recommendations for local authorities.
• No. of lakes surveyed and mapped.
• No. of seismic vulnerability assessments conducted.
• Identification of critical zones requiring intervention.
• Implementation feasibility of rejuvenation plans.
• No. of workshops and participants trained.
• No. of research papers, technical reports, and policy documents published.
S.No. Name (Sanctioned) Salary (Sanctioned)
1. 02 SRF @ Rs.42,000/- + 9% HRA
2. 02 JRF @ Rs.37,000/- + 9% HRA
3. 02 Project Assistant @ Rs.20,000/- + 9% HRA
S.No. Name of Equipment (Sanctioned) Cost (in INR)
1. Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) Equipment @49,00,000/-,Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) @26,00,000/-. 7,500,000/-
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