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Ecological Restoration and Management Plan for Pashan Lake Ecological

Society Ecological Restoration and Management Plan for Pashan Lake
Technical Report · December 2017

DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.14897.33128
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Ecological Restoration
and Management Plan
for Pashan Lake
Ecological Society
Ecological Restoration
and
Management Plan
for Pashan Lake
Prepared by
Dr. Swati Gole

Dharmaraj Patil
Dr. Gurudas Nulkar
Revati Gindi
Amol Bapat
Dr. Anagha Athavale
Ecological Restoration and Management Plan for Pashan Lake
December 2017
Published by
Ecological Society
B-2, Jayanti Apartments, Near Ratna Hospital,
Senapati Bapat Road, Pune 411 016. India.
Telephone - 020-25677312
Mail - ecological.society@gmail.com
Website www.ecological-society.org
2 | Ecological Society
Contents
1 | Introduction....................................................................................................................... 4
Rationale of the project ...................................................................................................................... 5
2 | Methodology ..................................................................................................................... 6
2 | Observations ................................................................................................................... 10
Fauna................................................................................................................................................. 13
Roosting and Nesting Sites................................................................................................................ 14
Key species/vulnerable species and threats ..................................................................................... 17
Corridors to sustain the population of species ................................................................................. 17
Habitat diversity ................................................................................................................................ 19
Microhabitats .................................................................................................................................... 19
Slopes ................................................................................................................................................ 19
Perches and corridors ....................................................................................................................... 19
Islands ............................................................................................................................................... 19
Lake Boundary .................................................................................................................................. 20
Observations on the past interventions ........................................................................................... 20
Sources of pollution in the lake ........................................................................................................ 22
Socio-economic survey ..................................................................................................................... 23
3 | Analysis of changing bird life ............................................................................................ 25
Brief review of trend in Bird lists at Pashan lake .............................................................................. 25
Brief review of trend in bird flock size for selected species ............................................................. 26
Brief review of trend in pollution indicator species at the lake premise.......................................... 26
4 | Management and restoration plan ................................................................................... 28
Problems to be addressed by the plan ............................................................................................. 29
Methodology of the Restoration Program ....................................................................................... 32
Using a Stella model for Pashan Lake ............................................................................................... 40
Conclusions ....................................................................................................................................... 43
Limitations of the study .................................................................................................................... 44
Acknowledgements........................................................................................................................... 45
5 | References ....................................................................................................................... 46
6 | Annexure ......................................................................................................................... 48
1 | Introduction
Aquatic ecosystems are particularly rich providers of ecosystem services. They recycle
nutrients, recharge ground water, regulate the micro-climate and create diverse habitats
which begets a thriving food chain. Besides being a source of joy for humans, water has
influenced and shaped cultures all over the world. Lakes, whether man-made like the
Pashan lake, or natural, are therefore an important component of any landscape. When
located within a bustling city, they have the potential to impart a unique value to the beauty
of the city. However, as cities grow, lakes are often neglected for their ecological value and
are developed for their aesthetic value. While this is pleasing to the human eye, it can
impact the non-human life that has also made the lake their home. Ecological degradation is
thus overlooked and over time, the ecological efficiency of the lake diminishes. There are
many such cases in India. On the other hand, many lakes in the US and Europe have been
conserved and protected for their ecological value, and this in turn has benefited their
natural beauty.
Rationale of the project

Pashan lake is a man-made reservoir which is created by the construction of a small dam on
the Ram nadi rivulet. The lake is an important wetland in Pune and even today has good
biodiversity. Birds like waterhens, jacanas, coots, grebes, herons, lapwings and others reside
and breed here. The lake is a significant stopover site (stage-post) for many migratory birds
like the thumb-sized Blyth’s reed warbler to larger ducks. The lake offers a suitable habitat
for many waders and wagtails that breed in Ladakh. They come here to escape from the
harsh winters of Ladakh. Some duck species arrive here from as far as Siberia, Mongolia and
eastern part of Europe. The lake also supports many species of insects and aquatic
invertebrates.
What was once a rich abode for various species has now deteriorated and is not suitable for
many of them today. This is mainly due to pollution and human interventions which have
had a negative impact on the flora and fauna. Between 2008 to 2013, a large-scale
beautification project was undertaken on the lake. This altered many habitats within the
lake and changed its natural character. Over time, successive human interventions have
changed the floral and faunal diversity around the lake. In its current form, the citizens of
Pune do not get to see long distance migratory birds like the Bar headed goose, rare animals
like the Jungle cat and a host of aquatic inhabitants. The sewage and industrial pollutants
constantly being added to the water have reduced the lake’s capacity to foster life. These
conditions have been exploited by some non-native and invasive vegetation and they now
dominate the landscape. Many habitat specific flora have disappeared, and with them,
some of the fauna have gone too. Problems of bad odour and increased mosquito breeding
are evidence of the degradation. It is thus necessary to improve an ecosystem functioning
also for citizens, and not only other life.
Nature has a unique way of restoring itself, if given time and protection. It is possible to
revive water bodies and restore their ecological functions, with a holistic approach towards
its management. There is an urgent need to conserve and restore the Pashan lake
ecosystem, else future generations stand to lose a spectacular natural beauty, forever.
This report is the result of a methodological research and observations conducted over
three months, by the Ecological Society (ES).
2 | Methodology
To make appropriate recommendations, we employed a structured methodology for the
study. This is depicted in figure 1, which was conducted in three stages. In the first phase we
reviewed published literature and compiled previous data and observations of Pashan Lake.
Various researchers and experts have undertaken studies here and these were important
for our analysis. We read case studies and reports of lake conservation and restoration
efforts from other countries, especially the USA. After this, we set about preparing the
objectives of the study, identifying what data needed to be collected and the tools that we
would use to collect the data. The second phase was the actual collection of data and
meeting with experts. The third was data collation and report writing.
Literature review
Compiling data from past studies
Case studies from other countries
PHASE 1
Setting the objectives

Identifying primary data collection
Data collection methodology
Sampling methodology
Data collection - Data collection - Data collection -

Fauna Flora Socio-economic
Documenting past interventions

PHASE 2
Identifying sources of pollution
Meetings with experts
Data collation and analysis

PHASE 3
Report writing
Figure 1: Methodology
Our team made eleven field visits in the period between July to September 2017. Data was
collected and wherever possible was supplemented with photo-documentation. The
methodology is described in short.
1. Collection of faunal data
Even in the current state, the lake has a congregation of birds. They come here because of
the food availability and the suitability of the habitat; and hence, many species serve as
indicators of ecosystem health. It is therefore important to record their diversity. We made
three visits for the faunal survey. However, the period of the project coincided with the
monsoon season, which is not a peak birding season. We documented the species and
prepared bird checklists. Because of the reduced activity in the monsoon season, we could
document just about forty species per visit. This includes birds on trees around the lake. The
average count was 32 species (Annexure IV). This list includes only resident birds and not
winter visitors. The winter visitors are the most important indicators of ecological health,
and they are not seen in the monsoon. Hence, we had to rely on past reports and published
data from research papers, articles and from eBird website. The eBird checklist which covers
the period from the website’s launch till today, lists 203 species (Annexure-III) at Pashan
lake. This list compiles species sent in by contributors, thus, there would be more species
which are not recorded on eBird. Yet, it is a fair representation of avifauna of the lake. It is
necessary to undertake a bird survey in the winter season.
2. Collection of floral data
We made five visits to the lake for collection of floral data, where we could document 111
species of plants (Annexure II) at the lake banks. The list includes aquatic plants, plants on
the banks and plantations. Flora checklists of 1981 has a list of 78 species (Annexure I). The
additions are mainly plantations. The flora was studied from an ecological perspective -
aspects such as habitat specific species, identification of aggressive and invasive species,
change in vegetation through time were noted.
3. Socio-economic survey
To understand the human connections with the lake, we conducted a socio-economic

survey. This helped us understand the perception of various stakeholders of the lake. During
the survey, we took their suggestions and noted their observations of the lake. This survey
was done in three visits. The stakeholders include local residents, subject matter experts,
morning visitors to the lake, government staff concerned with the lake and some industries
on the upstream of the lake. Based on our secondary research and discussions with some
experts, we prepared a questionnaire (Annexure V). The questionnaire changed for different
stakeholders. Students of Fergusson College volunteered for the survey and nearly one
hundred responses were collected. The data was then edited and analysed.
4. Documenting past interventions
During each of the survey visits, we noted the past interventions made by the PMC
especially during the JNNURM’s Lake Beautification Project. Some of those interventions
have caused drastic change in the lake ecosystem which has negatively affected aquatic
biodiversity.
5. Documenting sources of pollution
The lake has a huge cover of invasive aquatic flora like Pistia and Water Hyacinth. This
indicates a stage of eutrophication in the lake. It was thus important to document the
sources of contaminants – organic and inorganic matter being added to the lake. Sources
were recorded in our site surveys and plotted on google maps. There are three major
sources of pollution at the lake. 1. Sewage load in Ramnadi itself on which the lake built.
Untreated sewage enters the lake. 2. Outlet from DRDO and nearby industries 3. Vehicle
cleaning and washings at the bund mostly by local people.
2 | Observations
From the eleven survey visits to the site, we recorded our observations of flora and fauna
and photo-documented the important ones. The prominent ones are noted below. The
map of Pashan lake (Figure 2) shows the areas where we conducted the survey.
Figure 2
Flora
1. We have documented 110 plant species of which Climbers-4, Herbs-72, Shrubs-10,

Trees-25. It is important to note that very few aquatic species like Nymphaea spp.
and Nymphyoides spp.
2. We recorded aquatic floral species, however, there is an alarming drop in the
diversity compared to the 1981 report1. This is a matter of concern, which has been
addressed in our recommendation plan.
3. One section of the bank has Nilgiri plantation. The understorey in this area is
dominated with aggressive weeds like Senna uniflora, Parthenium associated with
Cosmos, Tithonia and few associates like Alysicarpus, Indigophera, Macroptalium,
Grewia, Sida, Cullen etc. The entire plantation area has a ground cover of these
plants. This is a matter of concern, since the regeneration of native flora is
threatened.
4. The sloping edges of the lake are an ecological interface between the water body
and land. Sunlight reaches the shallow submerged soil and supports a variety of
aquatic flora and fauna. This is an important zone of a lake and provides a habitat for
lower fauna and fish spawning. This attracts the wading birds. This zone, at Pashan,
has been removed partially by construction of a pitching wall. The wall has reduced
the shallow edge and removed the habitats for aquatic flora. The ecological relation
between the water body and its upland has been changed completely by the pitching
wall. Consequently, vegetation associated with aquatic and marshy areas like
Ammania baccifera, Eleocharis spp., Cyperus spp. and Veronica have reduced, and
some are absent today.
5. In the area near the edges of Water body, and Bund wall, we observed proliferation
of Water hyacinth, Alternanthera, Pistia, Lemna, which forms a thick mat over the
surface of water. Edges are an important component of the lake. These invasive
aquatic species have aggressively dominated the edges and do not allow the
regeneration of aquatic plant diversity. Their thick cover prevents any sunlight from
reaching the shallow submerged soil. The reduced diversity is confirmed by the
1
Vartak V.D., Ghate, H. (1981) Assessing Impacts of Habitat Modification on Plant Diversity of an urban
wetland.
absence of seasonal aquatic species like Hydrilla Vallisneria, Ceratophyllum and

Ottelia. These are new comers to the Pashan lake as they were not recorded the
earlier studies. They are indicators of deterioration in the ecosystem.
6. The upland areas around the Pashan lake have been modified by plantations and
constructions of jogging track. This has created a new habitat which fosters the
growth of aggressive weeds like Eupatorium. This weed is highly invasive and difficult
to control. Moreover, it does not allow the regeneration of other species, and over
time, the diversity reduces, as is evident in our study.
7. At the edge of the Eucalyptus plantation area one part of the pitching wall is
removed for allowing boat movement. This is to remove water hyacinths. This year’s
high rainfall in September and October the water entered in Eucalyptus plantation
area through this zone and created a new wetland like habitat. Earlier it was a large
open area having inland herbs and shrubs dotted with Eucalyptus trees. But this area
too is dominated with water hyacinths.
8. Dr. Ghate and Dr. Vartak (1981) have noted 78 aquatic plant species. Their report
shows that Pashan Lake was rich in its floral diversity. There are very few documents
available for reference, after this period. On the other hand, there are ample studies
of fauna in and around the lake, which offer reference material for this study.
9. An important characteristic of wetlands is its fluctuating water levels. This was seen
in Pashan lake when there was monsoon flow of water from the Ramnadi. However,
today, this is replaced by a continuous supply of sewage from Ramnadi.
Consequently, the difference in the low and high-water levels in Pashan lake has
decreased. This has affected the vegetation in this area. Species like Gnaphalium,
Stemodia, Centella asiatica, and Eriocaulon etc are no longer seen. They have been
replaced by Alternanthera philoxeroides and Alternanthera sessilis. This has
affected the fauna as plant and animal species are dependent on each other.
10. Ground orchids like Zeuxine, Eulophia, Habenaria marginata which were recorded on
upland areas in earlier studies did not show up in our survey.
Fauna
Pashan lake supports a variety of fauna, not limited to birds. There is rich diversity of
butterflies, dragonflies, damselflies, beetles, bugs and other insects. Mammals like Palm
squirrel, Grey Mongoose, Indian Fruit Bats are commonly seen in the vicinity. Butterflies like
Plain Tiger, Striped Tiger, Danaid Eggfly, Hedge Blue, Glassy Tiger, Common Pierrot, Lemon
Emigrant, Lemon Pansy, Chocolate Pansy and
others are seen here. Many of them breed around
the lake. However, the bird diversity is what the
lake is most popular for. Many species are resident
while some spend their winter here. As our
comparison with previous records shows, the
species richness is declining and so are the
migratory birds. Some of the specialist species are no longer seen and the generalists are
growing in numbers. This calls for immediate action to conserve their habitats, protect some
of the special zones and improve others. We note some of the important observations that
we made during the survey, regarding the avian diversity.
Roosting and Nesting Sites

The lake is a good nesting site for many of the resident birds. It includes aquatic birds like
Pheasant-tailed Jacana, White-breasted waterhen, Common Coot, Little Grebe, Bronze-
winged Jacana, Black-crowned Night Heron, Indian Pond Heron, Red-wattled Lapwing, Cattle
Egret, Eurasian Spoonbills, Little Cormorants etc. Besides these, shorebirds and forest birds
also breed here. Kingfishers, Tits, Fantails, Babblers, Parakeets, Bulbuls, Cuckoos, Baya,
Wagtails and others have been noted to breed around the lake. The southern bank of the
lake has more aquatic vegetation and this makes it ideal for nesting sites. Other nesting sites
are located on trees and in the bushes surrounding the lake.
These areas also offer roosting places for birds (Figure 3). These are roosts for the migratory
birds too. They include, Northern Shoveller, Common Sandpiper, Green Sandpiper, Grey
Wagtail, White Wagtail, Yellow Wagtail, Lesser whistling Teal, Common Teal, Ashy Drongo,
Barn Swallow and others. Furthermore, some of the local migratory species like River Terns,
Bee eaters, Rollers, Grey Herons and Purple Herons have been seen using the roosting sites.
Broadly, there are seven zones of diverse habitats for birds (refer figure on next page).
1. Plantation area - Roost of Forest birds which includes, Spot-breasted Fantail, Tickell’s
blue flycatcher, Laughing dove, Green Bee eaters, Large grey babblers, Sunbirds,
Munias, Sparrows etc.
2. Post-bund stream – Roost of Red-wattled Lapwings, White-breasted Waterhen,
White-browed Wagtail, Reed Warblers, Indian Pond Heron, Sandpipers, Spot-billed
Ducks, Cattle Egret, Little Egret.
3. Old Ficus Tree – Seasonal Roost of Little Cormorants, Cattle Egrets, Rose-ringed
Parakeet, Common Myna, Jungle Myna etc.
4. Marshland – Roost of Gray-headed Swamphen, Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Wagtails,
Cormorants, Woolly necked Storks, Grey herons etc.
Nesting – Little Cormorants, Eurasian Spoonbills, Jacanas, Waterhen, Swamphen
5. Rich area with combination of habitats – Marshaland, Trees and bushes
Roost of Kingfishers, grey herons, cormorants, swamphens, waterhens, coots,
Painted stork, Asian Openbill, Spoonbill etc
Nesting of Black-crowned Night heron, Coots, Little grebe, jacanas, lapwings etc
6. Islands banks- seasonal roosts of Night herons, Painted storks, Spot-billed ducks,
River terns.
7. Mudbanks, adjacent soft soil and trees – Roosts of Grey wagtail, yellow wagtail,
white eagtail, Common sandpiper, Tree Pipit, Ashy drongo, nest of red-rumped
swallow.
These are representative species and not the only ones at a habitat. Most of these habitats
have been disturbed.
Figure 3
Key species/vulnerable species and threats

The unintended consequences of successive interventions in the last two decades have
resulted in the Pashan lake ecosystem being under severe threat. Moreover, the pollution
entering the lake has taken gigantic proportions and furthers contributes to the rapid
degradation. These interventions have led to loss of critical habitats while the pollution has
triggered widespread eutrophication in the lake. This has taken a toll on some species which
are vital components of the lake ecosystem; especially the waders who forage in the muddy
banks of the lake - Sandpipers, Snipes, Plovers, Stilts, Stints, Greenshank, Redshank.
Corridors to sustain the population of species

No population of species can survive in isolation. Created fences and uncontrolled
construction activity around the lake has cut off the connection of Pashan lake’s biodiversity
with the other biodiversity in the neighbourhood. This is especially detrimental to the
movement of insects, frogs, snakes, mammals and ground birds like waterhens and
moorhens. There is an urgent need to reconnect green patches which act as corridors for
the animals, to be created and protected. The main movement corridors are marked on the
map in Figure 4.
Figure 4
Habitat diversity
The habitats around the lake can be broadly classified into three types - the wetlands,
woodlands and the islands. For a comprehensive conservation and management plan of
aquatic ecosystems, all the three types must be protected on priority. The other habitats are
shown in the map.
a. Woodland , the plantation area

b. Post-bund stream
c. Marshland
d. Combination of marsh, acacia trees and bushes. Rich habitat
e. Deep water
f. Wading habitat/Mudbank
Microhabitats
The various components of the landscape make up many different microhabitats. They are
formed by clusters of shrubs and bushes, rocks or stone piles, puddles, bamboo clusters and
many other such components. The presence of microhabitats is critical and they lend their
support to the macro habitats by harbouring niche species.
Slopes
The lake ecosystem has been developed because of natural depression in the landscape.
This would have gradually sloping edges, which are of great importance, as stated in the
earlier section. They should be free from any kind of construction or intervention. The
natural slopes support life which will cease to be there if there is any intervention.
Perches and corridors

Aquatic birds find a perch on rocks jutting out of the water,
dead trees sticking out of the lake or islands. Simple sticks
or rocks places on the sloping edges would create such
perches for birds. Installation of such components require
expert advice and we suggest consulting some experts for
this.
Islands
The islands within Pashan lake offer a refuge for water birds. There could be nesting sites
here when the water level is high. But, in the dry season when there is a direct access to the
island, stray dogs reach here to hunt for eggs, chicks and birds. There are some non-native
trees growing here. There is a potential to significantly improve the islands and we
recommend a deeper study of the created islands, its sloping, habitats, nesting/roosting on
it, vegetation etc.
Lake Boundary
The lake is guarded by a wall from the side of DRDO. However, there are access points from
where people enter the lake, most probably for fishing. The flora diversity is particularly rich
on the DRDO side of the lake. Consequently, this zone has several nesting and roosting sites.
This side is thus very important for avifauna and therefore the access from here must be
sealed. There is need of regular vigilance at the lake to stop illegal activities well. Media
reports of illegal gambling dens in this area.
Observations on the past interventions

1. Plantations – There has been a mass plantation drive on the East bank of the lake.
Similarly, there is older plantation on the South-east bank. This was undertaken in the
beautification program. Nilgiri trees have been planted in the entire zone. This tree was
introduced in India for its economic value. But it has subsequently proved to be an
ecological hazard. So much so that the Karantaka High Court has asked the state Forest
Department to consider a ban on its plantation2! On February 2011, the Karnataka
Forest Department banned the plantation of eucalyptus in Western Ghats and
surrounding districts. Similarly, on February 27, 2014 the Madras High Court (Madurai)
Bench ordered the Tamil Nadu Forest Department to take action to “annihilate”
eucalyptus plantations along the Western Ghats3. The effects of Nilgiri in the Indian
region have been well researched4. There was no reason for this tree to be selected for
plantation here. The undergrowth in this area is dominantly non-native, which too
poses a threat for the lake ecosystem.
2
The Hindu 1st April 2016. http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/changes-in-law-needed-to-ban-
eucalyptus-plantations/article7440926.ece
3
Proceedings of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Chennai.
https://www.forests.tn.gov.in/tnforest/app/webroot/img/document/news/news/WR1-7028-2014-
%20proceedings.pdf
4
“Impact of eucalyptus plantations on groundwater availability in south Karnataka” by Mukund Joshi,
University of Agriculture Sciences-Bengaluru, and K. Palanisami of International Water Management Institute,
Hyderabad.
Along the nature trail, there trees like Khair, Kate sawar, Pangara and some other
native species. However, these are not specifically aquatic species. These trees have
attracted birds like fantails, flycatchers, orioles, mynas and others, which are forest
birds and not wetland birds. For conservation of the lake ecosystem, we must attract
aquatic or wetland birds as these birds directly contribute to the health of the lake
ecosystem.
2. Bamboo plantations on the banks – These are fast growing vegetation along the bank,
which has removed the open areas around the banks. This makes it unsafe for birds.
Waders need to be able to see any threats along the banks, if there is excessive growth
on the banks, then they avoid such places. This is particularly relevant to the Bar
Headed Geese, which have been recorded here, when the banks were open. However,
since the vegetative growth, this species have not been sighted here in the last few
years.
3. Jogging tracks, walkways and roads – The jogging track on the East side (near the
Expressway) has not been significantly disturbing to the lake. However, the walkways
and the dirt road along the Nort bank (near the Nilgiri plantations) was previously a
good habitat for Grey and Yellow Wagtails. Flocks of these species have been recorded
here previously. However, because of the access and the trampling which leaves no
vegetative cover on the walkways, the number of wagtails has significantly reduced.
4. Rock pitching covering almost entire lake – Rock pitching was undertaken under the
beautification program and has significantly damaged the lake ecosystem. As
mentioned in the earlier sections, the rock pitching has disturbed the natural shallow
sloping banks, which in turn has affected flora and fauna.
5. Created islands – These have created new habitats for the aquatic birds, especially roost
sites which are protected from human interference. The islands were not too far away
from the banks, and in summers, stray dogs and people can walk across to them. This is
a problem. Furthermore, there has been a proliferation of non-native trees on the
island, and if they are not controlled, there is a possibility of them being invasive.
6. Excavation and desilting – The lake underwent a desiltation program, in which, instead
of removing silt from the middle portion of the lake, the banks and the surrounding
areas were desilted and deepened5. This effectively destroyed the shallow water
habitats. The wading birds can no longer stand in the deep waters. With that, the
marshy areas, which are natural transit zones between the soil and the water were
removed too. This destroyed the valuable plant and animal species in the area6.
7. Access for boating – Excavation was undertaken to allow boats to get into the lake. This
has changed the bank character in that zone and formed a breach on the bank.
Sources of pollution in the lake

Pashan lake is a lentic water ecosystem, which is nearly a closed ecosystem. Sewage and
pollutants entering the lake reside permanently in it. The pollutants change the character of
the water, seep into the soil and affect the flora in the ecosystem. As their concentration in
the lake increases, it manifests as explosive growth in aquatic weeds and algal blooms. This
is one of the most significant disruptors of the Pashan ecosystem. In our socio-economic
surveys, we noted the decline in fish diversity and quantity. The major pollution enters the
lake through Ramnadi. Some of the sewage which comes in to Ramnadi is outside the
jurisdiction of Pune Municipal Corporation. Other sources are garbage and debris dumps
around the water body and human use of lake – like washing clothes, vehicles and cattle
and the untreated water from DRDO and other industries which enters the lake. The
following photograph shows hyacinth covering the water and a part of the pitched rock wall.
5
http://www.indiawaterportal.org/articles/threatened-urbanisation-doomed-restoration
6
http://www.indiawaterportal.org/articles/threatened-urbanisation-doomed-restoration
Rock pitching walls and Eutrophication
Ramnadi sewage entering the lake
Socio-economic survey
In the context of Pashan lake, ecosystem management is more about managing human
activities in the vicinity of the lake and within the lake. For this reason, we considered it
important to conduct a survey of the stakeholders of the lake.
For this, we identified three categories of stakeholders. We prepared questionnaires for

each category and made four visits to the lake, throughout the period of the study. Students
from Fergusson College and Ecological Society volunteered for the data collection activity.
They were given a short training on the objective of the survey, how to administer the
questionnaire and how to compile the data. Sample respondents were selected randomly,
irrespective of gender, age and education levels, at different times of the day. The number
of respondents by category are shown in the table below.
Category of respondents Number of

respondents
1 Residents of Sutarwadi 60
2 Visitors and exercisers at Pashan lake 25
3 Residents of Ramnagar colony, Bawdhan 5
The residents of Sutarwadi have witnessed the Pashan lake since its birth. They have
childhood memories of swimming, fishing and playing within the lake. There were sorghum
and paddy fields and cattle were brought here to wash. Women washed clothes here. This
was a small village near Pune and Pashan lake was their source of water. There was an
absence of tree cover around the lake, as seen today. The present generation has lost touch
with the lake – there is no swimming and fishing and they usually do not visit the garden.
41% of the respondents felt the water was bad while 20% considered it in a worst state.
53% of the respondents were not happy with the state of the lake, but surprisingly 30%
were happy. Residents were unhappy that the mosquitoes have increased in the last few
years and the number of birds have decreased. Some of their suggestions and concerns are
listed in the Annexure.
3 | Analysis of changing bird life

With such dramatic interventions and excessive pollution, it is evident that the bird life in the lake
will change over the years. Certain species of birds will abstain from coming to their usual areas
when either the food availability at a place changes or when they feel threatened by some activity or
change. Unfortunately, Pashan lake has seen both these situations. We compared our observations
with the fauna check lists from past years.
Brief review of trend in Bird lists at Pashan lake

Sr Checklist Year Number of Birds Comment
No species reported in a
single list
1 1982 69 Least disturbance
2 1993 62 Least disturbance
3 2008 46 Start of the Beautification Project
4 2009 39 During the Beautification Project
5 2015 48 Post project Eutrophication
6 2017 32 Eutrophication continues
Brief review of trend in bird flock size for selected species

Sr Bird Species Count in Count in Count in
No 1991 2009 2016 Comment
1 Northern Pintail Anas acuta 325 30 15 Drastic decline during and

2 Garganey Spatula querquedula 500 10 5
after the project
3 Common Pochard Aythya farina 225 10 31
4 Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula 075 2 0 interventions.
5 Eurasian Coot Fulica atra 200 27 19
6 Cotton Pygmy-Goose Nettapus 050 13 7
coromandelianus (Beautification Project
Duration was 2008 to
7 Common Sandpiper Actitis - 2 5
2013)
hypoleucos
8 White-browed Wagtail Motacilla 8 2 3
maderaspatensis
9 Pheasant-tailed Jacana 5 2 2
Hydrophasianus chirurgus
Brief review of trend in pollution indicator species at the lake premise

Sr Bird species Count in Count in Count in
No 1991 2009 2016
Comment
1 House Crow (Corvus splendens) 6 19 9 Increasing trend in
2 Large-billed Crow (Indian Jungle) - 6 15 nuisance species is
(Corvus macrorhynchos) indication of degradation
3 Common Myna (Acridotheres 5 3 16 of ecosystem. It is further
tristis) replacing other species in
4 Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus 2 15 12 the ecosystem.
himantopus)
Black Drongo
Red wattled Lapwing
Spot billed ducks
Little Egret
4 | Management and restoration plan

While ‘change’ is the normal course for all ecological systems, the changes brought about by
man are rapid in the time scale of an ecosystem. This does not allow life to adapt towards
them and those that are unable to respond make way for other species which can adapt.
Often, these are non-natives or invasive species. What we see at Pashan lake today is this
phenomenon. An improvement in the lake ecosystem is possible with an ecological
management and restoration program. In this program, it is essential to control the source
of the problem. For some lakes, control of human interventions and stopping pollution
ingress can result in an improvement, but in cases like the Pashan lake, there have been
major changes in flora, loss of habitat, physical changes to the lake its hydrology. This would
need a comprehensive management program.
We strongly believe that the goals of lake improvement and restoration program must be
clearly defined, if not, it is difficult to judge the degree of success. Therefore, we define the
objectives of the management and restoration program, based on the ‘desired future state
of the lake’.
1. To recreate the habitats to improve and restore the bird activity at the lake.
2. To restore the natural aquatic and upland vegetation in the lake ecosystem.
3. To improve the aquatic life in the water.
4. To turn the lake into a place of natural beauty and a source of joy for citizen.
Besides these objectives, clearly, the most important one is the revival of the ecosystem
services of Pashan lake. These include air purification, micro-climate regulation, rainwater
drainage, groundwater recharge, sustaining the food chain and the recreational and cultural
values that the lake bestows on the residents of Pune. This necessitates that restoration and
rejuvenation programs must promote a self-sustaining and stable ecosystem.
One of the greatest challenges is to find a balance between economic and social
developments and ecosystem and natural resources management. We believe that in the
case of Pashan lake, it is important to prioritize nature over human value. For this reason,
we considered the economic output of the lake – drinking water, fish, medicinal flora and
others – relatively a less important objective in the management plan.
Problems to be addressed by the plan

With our documentation of all the threats to the lake, we clubbed them into four major
categories. These are shown in the figure 5.
Excessive Physical &

nutrients and hydrological
organic matter changes
Pashan lake
ecosystem
Proliferation of Construction and

exotic species beautification
interventions
Figure 5: Four major threats to Pashan Lake
Excessive nutrients and organic matter
We observed that there are point sources of nutrients and an ingress of urban and
agricultural run-off entering the lake. The input of nutrients, especially phosphorus, can be
beneficial to blooms of algae (especially blue-green algae), leading to a loss of water clarity,
a build-up of organic and nutrient-rich sediments, loss of oxygen at the lower parts of the
lake. All this has changed the lake's food chain.
In one study of water in the lake, it was found out that sodium and potassium are above
permissible range. The major source of potassium is polluted water. The lake is used for
washing clothes, animals and vehicles7.
7
Pimpale, N. & Amrujkar, (2015) P.Physico-chemical analysis of surface water sample from pashan lake, Pune.
Physical and hydrological changes
The landscape surrounding the lake and the entire watershed of Pashan lake has altered
dramatically over the last few decades. This area was once a largely open land with some
inhabitation clusters. The hills to the North East of the lake were draining in directly to the
lake. However, today, the Mumbai-Bangalore highway has changed the water drainage into
the lake as has the building activity which has proliferated. There has been a grave neglect
of the recharge zones and consequently, the underground water stocks have been affected
over the years. Between the dry and wet seasons, the area of the lake varies substantially.
But if the watershed flows change, this variation is changed, as is evident on Pashan Lake. At
the edges, the variation in water levels and the variation of water depth towards the centre,
causes a variation in the biota. This has now changed with the changed water regime.
Proliferation of exotic species
As described in the earlier section, the entire vicinity of the lake and the water, today, host
several exotic floral species. These are not native to the region, but have adapted well to the
changes in the lake. Some of these species are deliberately introduced – trees like the
Nilgiri, Gulmohur, Subabhul have been planted for reasons of increasing tree cover. Other
species like the Water hyacinth, Alternanthera, Pistia, Parthenium, Senna uniflora, Cosmos,
Tithonia and others have germinated, perhaps, on their own. They are now aggressively
occupying the territory and have turned into a nuisance for the original inhabitants of the
lake ecosystem. This is a serious threat.
Construction and beautification interventions
Construction activities like pitching walls, bunds, embankments have changed the natural
water flows in the lake catchment. These constructions have neglected ecological
importance of the lakes components and the recharge zones. The construction has also
changed the habitats of flora and fauna which has in turn modified the food chain in the
ecosystem.
In our management and restoration plan, we intend to correct these four major issues. The
outcome of these corrections would be improved biodiversity, especially birdlife and aquatic
fauna, and the lake can be thus restored to offer a huge recreational and cultural value to
human beings.
As is evident from many cases in India, revival of common property ecosystems is a

herculean task. Even if the administration duly fulfils its role, there are other actors who
must contribute to make it successful. Rejuvenation programs thus requires cooperative
efforts of various agencies and civil society. City planners and administrators, ecological
experts, activists and citizen have a role to play in the entire program.
This study was conducted in a period of three months, which is, at best, a dip-stick method
of assessing any ecosystem. We recommend two measures to be taken immediately. (i)
Conduct an environmental audit of the past ‘Lake Beautification project’ implemented
under JNNURM scheme. This is to assess the impact of the interventions which is required
to identify the corrective steps. (ii) Undertake an on-going, long term survey of the lake. This
is to assess the periodic changes in the floral and faunal diversity at the lake. That database
would be vital in assessing the rejuvenation program and for future decisions.
Methodology of the Restoration Program

In the following section we outline some of the important aspects of ecological restoration,
specific to Pashan lake. We recommend that the methodology outlined in Figure 6 be used
to undertake the Pashan lake rejuvenation program.
Administrative, regulatory and enforcement backup
Execution Team
Social awareness Community participation
Measures to Measures to reduce Measures to control

improve flora, fauna pollution & control human
and habitats invasive aquatic interferences
flora
Continuous Pashan Lake

Continuous
Program ecological
Ecosystem
monitoring restoration and
monitoring
management
Figure 6: Ecological restoration and management plan

for Pashan Lake
Administrative, regulatory and enforcement backup
This is the most important step in the implementation methodology. The success of any
ecosystem restoration program depends on a strong will and clear focus of the
administrative stakeholders – Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), in this case. They must
not only be aligned and in agreement to the objectives of the program, but must make it a
declared ‘Key Result Area’ in their administrative policy. Formulating and implementing the
rules and regulations is critical to the success.
The interventions being recommended in this plan are not capital intensive (other than STP),
but need enforcement machinery to support the efforts. Decisions involving capital and
operating expenses (STP, fencing, security personnel etc) must be facilitated by the PMC.
Community restoration program of Lake Kaikondrahalli8 in Bengaluru and Hauz Khas9 in
Delhi have seen success when the administrative bodies facilitated and backed up their
efforts.
Execution team
We recommend a team of 5 to spearhead the restoration efforts. This team should include
one botanist, one fauna expert, one ecologist, one member of the PMC and one Project
Manager. The objective of this team is to build social awareness and community acceptance
of the project, liaison with the administrative body, NGOs, community participatory
organizations, schools and colleges. They will be responsible for monitoring and execution
of the project.
The two steps of Continuous Program Monitoring and Continuous Ecosystem Monitoring
will be undertaken by this committee and they would recommend corrective steps when
required. The committee will evaluate the options available for implementation and take a
decision. For example – choice of methods of weed removal, aeration, selection of STP
capacity, selecting zones for plantation removal etc.
This team will prepare the project time-line and milestones and monitor the
implementation based on the project charter.
Measures for improvement in flora, fauna and habitats
1. The first step is a complete clean-up of the entire lake premises. This includes removal
of garbage and plastic litter in the water and on banks; and the debris which is lying
8
http://www.vikalpsangam.org/static/media/uploads/Resources/kaikondrahalli_lake_casestudy_harini.pdf
9
https://hal.archives-ouvertes.fr/hal-00739984/document
around. The upstream and downstream areas of the lake must also be cleared of all
litter. The entire lake vicinity should be made into a ‘Zero litter Zone’. This is of utmost
importance to prevent what can be prevented in the first place. Signages which declare
this must be put up at the entrances. We strongly recommend CCTV cameras to be
placed around the lake, with warning signs.
2. Removal of portions of the pitched rock wall surrounding the lake. This can be done in a
phased manner and is of great importance for improving the banks to attract the
wading birds. To start with, the wall on the western and southern side of the lake
should be removed.
3. The bamboo plantations on the banks is an impediment for aquatic birds, as mentioned
in the earlier section. We recommend removing at least 70% of these thickets. This will
be beneficial for birds and birdwatchers.
4. The Golden Bamboo planted on the trail towards highway side (East side) of the lake
should be completely removed. This Bamboo is an exotic species which can be avoided.
5. The soil surrounding the lake is an important habitat for ground dwelling insect eating
birds. Walkways and vehicular traffic compacts the soil and makes it unsuitable for
insect activity. It is important that at least some portion of the lake is kept moist and
soft. Here, vehicles and walking should not be permitted. The DRDO side (South side) of
the lake has such places which need protection.
6. There is good habitat developed after the bund where Ramnadi flows into a
channelized nala. This has created marshy places. But there being no protection here,
the birds and other fauna are threatened. Regular vigilance would be required for this
location.
7. As seen from our birdlife analysis, many of the earlier species of birds no longer come
to Pashan lake. Some of them were migratory ones like the Bar Headed Geese, while
others like the Indian Courser were highly charismatic ones. The dense plantations
around the lake have changed the character of the landscape. What was once a grass
and scrubland has now turned into a tree cover. This has attracted the forest birds like
flycatchers, orioles, bulbuls, babblers, mynas, sunbirds, cuckoos, crows but kept the
earlier ones away. Moreover, the aquatic birds do not benefit from the tree cover. We
recommend a phased removal of the plantations, especially the Nilgiri trees. Similarly,
the old Nilgiri plantations on the DRDO side should be removed. Tall trees, even
natives, should be avoided. Open banks provide a kind of runway, for large sized water
birds like ducks and geese.
8. The trails should be kept completely free of any more additions or ornamental
plantations. Especially the DRDO side trails must be kept untouched, otherwise they
will be an impediment to the improvement in the lake ecosystem.
9. Flora species mentioned in the Annexure must be removed completely and periodically
before they flower. The regeneration of these trees must be removed too. These are
exotic, and some are invasive species. Cosmos and Tithonia were observed sporadically,
their population is less today, but their presence is a matter of concern since they are
aggressive. All these non-natives have throttled the native flora. We recommend an
agency/ NGO be commissioned to remove them periodically at least for the first two
years.
10. Removal of Regeneration of tree species like Bauhinia, Nilgiri is necessary. Otherwise in
future dense canopy cover of these tree species will alter the open-scrub habitat.
11. Newly altered habitat must be observed for its impact on flora and fauna for minimum
two years.
12. Removal of non-native trees and shrubs from the islands.
13. Create grove like elements on the upland vegetations. These could be clusters of trees
like Banyan and Pipal, which are bird roost sites
14. Create a buffer zone beyond the highest water level.
15. Create peninsula like narrow bars where birds can rest during day activity.
16. For improving fish habitats, develop submerged aquatic plant species. Sand flats can be
created which are useful for fish and invertebrates.
17. Making small rock piles in the water body will act as stepping stones for birds and
mammals.
Measures for reducing pollution and controlling invasive aquatic fauna
1. Point source pollution - Algal growth, which is seen in Pashan lake, indicates a high
organic content in water. The sewage being continuously added from point sources,
increase the phosphate and nitrate loading of the water. These nutrients are beneficial
to water hyacinth and water cabbage which form thick carpets over the water. They are
especially seen near the sewage outlets. When these plants die and decay, they add to
the organic content in the water, which spawns the growth of algae. Healthy aquatic
ecosystems should host specialist species like Vallisneria, Ceratophyllum, Ottelia,
Nazas, and Potamogeton. These species were recorded in large numbers in our study of
2014, however, in the present study we observed a significant reduction in their
numbers, which is an evidence of polluted water.
Improvement in water quality is the only way to minimize the growth of these
aggressive weeds. There are three proven ways to reduce nutrient loading in a lake (i)
diverting point sources of untreated sewage away from the lake watershed – this is not
possible at Pashan, as there is no option to divert the sewage elsewhere (ii)
modification of sewage to reduce the nutrient loading – this is difficult, but possible, by
making rules which will improve the water quality of industries and residential waste
water. Laws banning phosphates or requiring lower levels of phosphates have been
implemented and are possible at a local level (iii) treatment of sewage by engineering
technology. We recommend the installation of sewage treatment plants at the inlet of
lake on Ramnadi. Moreover, the feeding streams to Ramnadi and Pashan lake should
be treated with biological root zone techniques. This should be done upstream of the
STP. Floral species which facilitate root zone treatment of water should be planted in
the feed streams. The water coming out of these zones can be fed to the STP. Once
water quality is improved, original vegetation will revive on its own. Furthermore, when
thick cover of hyacinth and Pistia is gone, the oxygenation in water will improve. This
facilitates the growth of aquatic fauna.
2. Non-point source pollution – this is pollution where the source cannot be traced to a
single point. This could be from sources such as roads, parking lots, fields, lawns and
solid waste dumps. The pollutants could be sediments, fertilizers, pesticides, car repair
shops, plastic waste or even petroleum products. It is important to keep the vicinity of
the lake in a garbage free condition. Dumping plastic or construction debris must be
stopped. Car repair garages, car washing, cattle washing should not be allowed. Around
the lake there should be no use of fertilizers and pesticides.
Community participation in clean up activities can be encouraged. This will reduce the
non-point source contamination in the lake.
3. The dissolved oxygen (DO) in the lake waters must be measured periodically. They
change with the lake depth. Sunken organic matter consumes the DO and therefore
lake bottom tends to have the least DO. Shallow lakes have a fairly consistent DO level.
DO varies with season and the time of the day too10. We recommend that water
samples should be taken from the East and South banks and near the middle of the
lake. Low levels of DO indicate oxygen demanding activity going on in the water. A DO
level of 8 ppm is considered good for aquatic life11.
There are various proven ways of aeration in a lake. These are designed to improve the
DO content in water. Use of mechanical pumps for water circulation, water fountains
and surface sprays, impeller rotors, air bubblers and air injectors are some of the ways
in which DO can be increased12. We recommend that DO measurements should be
conducted each week, at specific points, for a month. Based on these measurements, a
decision should be taken whether DO needs to be improved or not.
4. Pulsing the lake - When an aquatic body gets highly polluted and stagnant, the
biodiversity is badly affected, as we observed. A change in the water level has known to
improve the situation, as is evident from several experiments around the world. The
water level can be increased or decreased, depending on the other factors. This is
referred to as flood pulsing13. This was used by the Ecological Society in our experiment
to improve wetland habitat in the premises of College of Military Engineering, Pune.
We reduced the water level significantly, to create a disturbance in the wetland. The
released water was sent to another lake, made expressly for this purpose. We suggest
that the Pulsing method be further studied, since there is a potential to improve the
lake.
5. Any larger project further for the lake must have public hearing well before beginning
the project. This will minimize the risks of the project and align various stakeholders to
the objectives of the project. The interpretation centre that is being installed at the lake
10
http://www.fondriest.com/environmental-measurements/parameters/water-quality/dissolved-oxygen/
11
Michaud, J.P. 1991. A citizen's guide to understanding and monitoring lakes and streams. Publ. #94-149. Washington
State Dept. of Ecology, Publications Office, Olympia, WA, USA (360) 407-7472. Moore, M.L. 1989.
12
http://www.wc3design.com/lake-oxygen-levels/
13
Wetland Restoration, Food pulsing and Disturbance Dynamics, by Beth Middleton
should also require a call for public hearing. It will only improve the quality of it. It will
be a key awareness component on lake ecosystem so is important.
Measures for controlling human interferences
1. The most important measure is to create an awareness and sense of association of the
lake and the community. There is a low awareness in society about the lake’s ecosystem
functions, food chain, importance of birdlife and environmental services. Moreover,
citizen may not see any direct association of the lake in their own lives. We recommend
that a focussed communication campaign be undertaken to improve the situation. This
will involve signages, educational tours, school teacher training programs and
community campaigns. Moreover, in the digital age, social media is a very powerful tool
to convey messages. This should be leveraged to increase awareness. A public relations
campaign is necessary to show the measures being taken by the authorities and what is
the expected outcome.
2. A ban on any commercial/non-commercial activity in the water body or in the vicinity of
the lake. This includes cattle wading, vehicle washing, washing clothes, bathing,
swimming, using fuel pumps or motors or similar activities. Relevant signages must be
put up and promoted. Alert citizens can discourage such activities and thus visitors,
morning walkers and children must be encouraged to report any incidents to the
authorities.
3. We recommend that the Executive committee must be consulted for any further
proposals for interventions, activities, constructions or modifications. The proposals will
be evaluated by this committee before approval. Their assessment would consider the
objectives of this restoration and rejuvenation program and then decide the necessity
of the proposal. This will avoid expensive or even irreparable damage to the ecosystem.
Community participation in the program
1. Sutarwadi is mainly a low-income settlement. We recommend that there a deeper study

be undertaken with these residents. After this, we can plan workshops to sensitize them
of the importance and the role of Pashan Lake in the landscape. Their help can be taken
to stop outsiders from littering or using the premises for drinking and gambling, and
reporting incidences. There are ways to encourage this behaviour in them, which will be
beneficial in the program.
2. The residents of neighbouring suburbs are mainly from middle and upper middle socio-
economic classes. Many would be aware about conserving nature, littering around the
lake or about importance of birds. However, few would be aware of ecosystem
functioning and what constitutes a healthy ecosystem. We recommend that for such
citizen, a series of workshops be done at the lake. The project of the Interpretation
Centre will be very useful in this program. We recommend a professional agency takes
up the work of the Interpretation Centre. Also, an agency which can design and conduct
training programs for schools and colleges should be commissioned.
3. Making a list of key schools in Pune, and engaging their students at Pashan Lake can
create a favourable association with others who are not in the vicinity of the lake.
4. The Pashan lake offers a brilliant learning opportunity for students, but is underutilized
now. Very few researchers and students are taking advantage. On the other hand, Pune
has thousands of science students. How can we create more engagement with these
students? We recommend that a round-table meet should be arranged for science
professors from select Pune colleges. The outcome of this meet is to create an
engagement plan for students from science colleges in Pune.
5. The Jeevitnadi Program has created a program called ‘Adopt a Stretch’ for Mula-Mutha
river. In this, citizen groups, colleges or NGOs can come forward to adopt one stretch of
the river. They take the responsibility to keep it clean. We recommend this to be done at
Pashan lake. We can invite citizen groups or similar orgainzations to take up one bank,
trail, corner or any small portion here.
Using a Stella model for Pashan Lake

Ecosystem modelling has been used in many restoration programs across the world. In
recent times, improved software applications have simplified the technical aspects of
modelling. The graphical programming language STELLA® facilitates the modelling of
dynamic non-linear systems. We have used Stella to make a simple conceptual model of
Pashan lake ecosystem. This is intended to provide a general understanding of the system
behaviour (figure 7).
“A system is more than sum of its parts. It may exhibit adaptive, dynamic, goal-seeking, self-
preserving, and sometimes evolutionary behaviour. Also, the least obvious part of the
system, its function or purpose is often the most crucial determinant of the system’s
behaviour14”
Figure 7: STELLA model of Pashan Lake
Pashan lake is a system of interconnected elements, coherently organized in a way that

facilitates the ecosystem functioning. The system works well until not disturbed and under
14
Meadows, Donella (2008) Thinking in Systems. Chelsea Green Publishing.
disturbance will be resilient to an extent. If this threshold is exceeded, it collapses. We

believe that the Pashan lake is heading to collapse. The corrective interventions suggested
in this report must be implemented to save the collapse. The system is in the figure as a
model prepared in Stella 10.0.6.
It has interacting components and reinforcing loops shown as “+” polarity while balancing
loops as “-“ polarity. Sewage laden Ramnadi entering Pashan lake has caused severe
eutrophication. This eutrophication has led to lowering of Dissolved Oxygen (DO) which led
to death of many species of fishes and aquatic plants. Their decomposition has resulted in
further lowering of the DO. This set in a reinforcing loop. Stopping the entry of sewage in
the lake would trigger a balancing loop which would help reviving the ecosystem. There are
similar reinforcing and balancing loops provided in the model can potentially lead to the
restoration of Pashan lake. There are tweaking points which trigger balancing loops to run
the system in favour of the lake. It is important that all the stakeholders of the lake
ecosystem, especially the government, need to look at the lake from a systemic view to
really achieve desired change.
Conclusions
There is no longer any doubt about the contribution of aquatic bodies to the health of any
landscape. Sheer neglect over the last many decades, has driven many lakes in India into an
ecological degraded state. Pashan Lake has suffered from this neglect but is also the
unfortunate victim of a highly detrimental beautification program undertaken in the past.
For most part of the year, the lake looks like a field covered with green vegetation. This has
changed the entire food chain and damaged the ecosystem. If we do not act now, and in a
concerted manner, we stand to lose a valuable component Pune’s heritage.
In India, there have been several lake restoration projects undertaken in the past. Most of
them were driven by economic or anthropocentric outcomes. Dal, Wular, Harike, Dahar &
Souj, Loktak and Kolleru lakes were restored to improve commercial fishing and aquatic
flora culture. Lakes like the Hauz Khas and the water bodies in Delhi and Rajasthan
underwent restoration programs with the objective of improving the ground water recharge
and water stocks. Lakes like the Hussain Sagar in Hyderabad and the Aarey milk colony lake
in Mumbai have undergone beautification programs. Barring a few examples, like the
Kaikondrahalli lake in Bengaluru, very few ones have undergone ecological restoration
which sets out to improve the intrinsic value of an ecosystem.
We have a challenging opportunity to convert Pashan lake into a pristine aquatic habitat,
one that can truly transform the natural value of Pune. The task is not easy, yet not
impossible. It is not capital intensive, yet requires determined efforts of various
stakeholders. This report makes broad and specific recommendations. They are not
comprehensive, yet will set the direction and focus the efforts to the ecologically important
aspects of the lake. The report is a result of an indepth study undertaken by the Ecological
Society. We are hopeful of restoring the ecological value of the lake and are keen to
contribute towards the efforts.
Limitations of the study

While we have considered secondary data across a decade, the primary data collection was
undertaken during the monsoon season. Flora and fauna are dependent on the seasons and
thus we recommend undertaking a long-term survey to establish the base-line data for the
restoration program. We could not make a visit to the island in the lake. The two islands
have vegetation on it, mostly planted and is used extensively by birds. The biodiversity is
difficult to observe from banks and we recommend a visit to document the flora and fauna.
Acknowledgements
The Ecological Society is grateful to the Centre for Environmental Education for funding the project.
We are indebted to the many experts, especially Dr. Sanjeev Nalawde, who patiently gave us time to
offer deep insights to Pashan lake ecosystem.
5 | References
1. Studies on the Aquatic Plants from greater Pune Area: Part 1 Enumeration, 1981.
2. Vinaya S. Ghate and V.D. Vartak (1981) Assessing Impacts of Habitat Modification on
Plant Diversity of an urban wetland.
3. Shital B Pokharkar , D.M. Mahajan , T.D. Nikam and V.R. Gunale(2009)
4. Effects of Environmental factors on Ecology and Distribution of Aquatic
Macrophytes. By N.Jafri, Gunale,Mahajan,Shirke(2006)
5. Limnological Study of Pashan Lake, Pune Mrs. M.S. Jadhav and Dr. Mrs. K.C. Khare
(2010)
6. Aquatic Angiosperms of Maharashtra. S. Karthikeyan, Anand Kumar & B.D.Sharma
7. Botanical Survey of India, Western Circle, pune-411002
8. Flora Of Maharashtra state-Volume-1, 2 and 3
9. Management of Lakes in India M.S.Reddy and N.V.V.Char(2004)
10. Wetland Creation and Restoration- The status of Science. John Kusler & Mary E.
Kentula
11. Birds of South Asia- The Ripley Guide, Vol I, Rasmussen & Anderton
12. पाषाण तलावाचा कायापालट – डॉ. वववेक पराांजपे, Article, (१९८१)
13. एका तळ्यात होती – श्री. प्रकाश गोळे (१९७३)
14. Restoration of aquatic ecosystems, Committee on Restoration of Aquatic

Ecosystems. Science, Technology, and Public Policy Water Science and Technology
Board Commission on Geosciences, Environment, and Resources National Research
Council. Published by National Academy Press (1992)
6 | Annexure
Annexure I : List of Flora from past studies page 49
Annexure II : Checklist of current Flora page 53
Annexure III : Checklist of Birds of Pashan, all year round (eBird) page 56
Annexure IV : Checklist of Birds of Pashan lake, during the project page 59
Annexure V : Socio-economic survey page 60
Annexure I - List of flora from past studies
No Name of species Habitat Occurrence

1 Aeschynomene indica L. Amphibious Common
2 Alternanthera sessilis (L.) R.Br. ex DC. Amphibious Common
3 Amaranthus spinosus L. Wetland Occasional
4 Ammannia baccifera L. Marshy Common
5 Ammannia multiflora Roxb. Marshy Rare
6 Asclepias curassavica L. Amphibious Occasional
7 Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst. Marshy Common
8 Bothriochloa concanensis (Hook.f.) Henrard Wetland Occasional
9 Brachiaria eruciformis (Sm.) Griseb Wetland Common
10 Caesulia axillaris Roxb. Marshy Common
11 Canscora decurrens Dalzell Marshy Common
12 Ceratophyllum demersum L. Suspended submerged Common
13 Commelina benghalensis L. Wetland Common
14 Cyanotis faciculata (B.Heyne ex Roth) Schult. & Schult Wetland Common
15 Cyperus alopecuroides Rottb. Purely aquatic Occasional
16 Cyperus compressus L. Marshy Common
17 Cyperus difformis L. Marshy Common
18 Cyperus iria L. Marshy Common
19 Cyperus nutans Vahl Marshy Common
20 Cyperus rotundus L. Wetland Common
21 Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.) Willd. Marshy Common
22 Dinebra retroflexa (Vahl) Panz. Wetland Common
23 Echinochloa colona (L.) Link Purely aquatic Common
24 Eclipta prostrata (L.) L. Marshy Common
25 Eleocharis acutangula (Roxb.) Schult. Purely aquatic Common
26 Eleocharis atropurpurea (Retz.) J.Presl & C.Presl Marshy Common
27 Eleocharis geniculata (L.) Roem. & Schult. Marshy Abundant
28 Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. Marshy Common
29 Eragrostis tenella (L.) P.Beauv. ex Roem. & Schult. Marshy Common
30 Eriocaulon sp. Marshy Rare
31 Eulophia pratensis Lindl. Wetland Occasional
32 Exacum pedunculatum L. Marshy Common
33 Fimbristylis cymosa R.Br. Marshy Occasional
34 Fimbristylis ferruginea (L.) Vahl Marshy Common
35 Fimbristylis ovata (Burm.f.) J.Kern Wetland Occasional
36 Fimbristylis tetragona R.Br. Marshy Common
37 Fuirena wallichiana Kunth Amphibious Abundant
38 Gomphrena celosioides Mart. Wetland Common
39 Habenaria marginata Colebr. Marshy Rare
40 Hackelochloa granularis (L.) Kuntze Marshy Occasional
41 Hoppea dichotoma Willd. Marshy Common
42 Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle Suspended submerged Common
49
43 Hygrophila auriculata (Schumach.) Heine Amphibious Common

44 Iseilema laxum Hack. Marshy Occasional
No Name of species Habitat Occurrence

Marshy Common
Justicia quinqueangularis K.D.Koenig ex Roxb.
45
46 Kyllinga brevifolia Rottb. Marshy Common
47 Limnophila indica (L.) Druce Purely aquatic Abundant
48 Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H.Raven Purely aquatic Common
49 Mollugo pentaphylla L. Wetland Occasional
50 Najas minor All. Rooted submerged Common
51 Nymphaea nouchali Burm.f. Attached floating
52 Nymphoides cristata (Roxb.) Kuntze Attached floating Common
53 Ottelia alismoides (L.) Pers. Attached floating Abundant
54 Panicum repens L. Amphibious Abundant
55 Paspalidium punctatum (Burm.) A.Camus Marshy Common
56 Paspalum scrobiculatum L. Marshy Occasional
57 Pennisetum hohenackeri Hochst. ex Steud. Marshy Abundant
58 Phyla nodiflora (L.) Greene Marshy Common
59 Persicaria glabra (Willd.) M.Gómez Amphibious Common
60 Polygonum plebeium R.Br. Amphibious Rare
61 Portulaca oleracea L. Marshy Common
62 Potamogeton crispus L. Rooted submerged Rare
63 Potamogeton nodosus Poir. Attached floating Common
64 Potamogeton pectinatus L. Free floating Common
65 Potamogeton perfoliatus L. Submerged rooted Common
66 Pycreus globosus Rchb. Marshy Common
67 Pycreus pumilus (L.) Nees Wetland Common
68 Rotala tenuis Koehne Amphibious Abundant
69 Saccharum spontaneum L. Amphibious Common
70 Schoenoplectus litoralis (Schrad.) Palla Purely aquatic Abundant
71 Schoenoplectus mucronatus (L.) Palla Purely aquatic Abundant
72 Sopubia delphinifolia G.Don Wetland Common
73 Striga densiflora (Benth.) Benth. Wetland Occasional
74 Typha angustata L. Purely aquatic Abundant
75 Vallisneria spiralis L. Rooted submerged Abundant
76 Xanthium strumarium L. Wetland Common
77 Zeuxine strateumatica (L.) Schltr. Marshy Occasional
78 Zornia diphylla (L.) Pers. Wetland Occasional
50
Annexure I continued
Comparison of Aquatic plant species 2017 to 1981(Ghate,Vartak)
Sr.No. 1981 2017

1 Ceratophyllum demersum Eichhornia crassipes
2 Cyperus compressus Spirodela polyrrhiza
3 Hydrilla verticillata Alternanthera philoxeroides
4 Limnophila indica Azolla pinnata R. Br.
5 Ludwigia octovalvis Ludwigia octovalvis
6 Najas minor All. Ipomoea aquatica
7 Nymphaea nouchali Nymphaea nouchali
8 Nymphoides cristata Nymphoides cristata
9 Ottelia alismoides Ipomoea carnea
10 Potamogeton crispus Lemna gibba
11 Potamogeton nodosus Pistia stratiotes L.
12 Typha angustata Typha angustata
13 Potamogeton perfoliatus
14 Potamogeton pectinatus
Most of the aquatic species are replaced by aggressive weeds except few common species which are marked in
Yellow.
Comparison of Marshy area plant species 2017 to 1981(Ghate,Vartak)
1981 2017
1 Ammannia baccifera Bacopa monnieri
2 Ammannia multiflora Eclipta prostrata
3 Bacopa monnieri Phyla nodiflora
4 Caesulia axillaris Portulaca oleracea
5 Canscora decurrence Dactyloctenium aegyptium
6 Cyperus compressus Grangea maderaspatana
7 Cyperus difformis Hygrophila auriculata
8 Cyperus iria
9 Cyperus nutans
10 Dactyloctenium aegyptium
11 Eclipta prostrata
12 Eleocharis atropurpurea
13 Eleocharis geniculataa
14 Eleusine indica
15 Eragrostis tenella
16 Eriocaulon sp.
17 Exacum pedunculatum
18 Fimbristylis cymosa .
19 Fimbristylis ferruginea
20 Fimbristylis tetragona
21 Habenaria marginata
22 Hackelochloa granularis
23 Hoppea dichotoma
24 Hygrophila auriculata
51
25 Iseilema laxum
26 Justicia quinqueangularis
27 Kyllinga brevifolia
28 Paspalidium punctatum
29 Paspalum scrobiculatum
30 Pennisetum hohenackeri
31 Phyla nodiflora
32 Portulaca oleracea
33 Pycreus globosus
34 Zeuxine strateumatica
Current study shows very few marshy area species compared to 1981 studies indicating depletion in marshy area.
52
Annexure II – Checklist of current flora

No. Botanical name Common name Family Habit Habitat Occurrence
1 Acacia niotica Desf. Babhul Leguminosae Tree Periphery Common

2 Acacia polyacantha Willd. Pandhra Khair Leguminosae Tree Periphery Occasional
3 Acalypha ciliata Forssk. Euphorbiaceae Herb Periphery Common
4 Achyranthes aspera L. Aaghada Amaranthaceae Herb Periphery Common
5 Aeschynomene indica L. Leguminosae Herb Periphery Occasional
6 Ageratum conyzoides (L.) L. Compositae Herb Periphery Common
Alternanthera philoxeroides
7 (Mart.) Griseb. Alligator weed Amaranthaceae Herb Periphery and waterbody Abundant
Alternanthera sessilis (L.)
8 R.Br. ex DC. Chabuk kata Amaranthaceae Herb Periphery and waterbody Abundant
Alysicarpus tetragonolobus
9 Edgew. Leguminosae Herb Periphery Occasional
10 Amaranthus spinosus L. Katemath Amaranthaceae Herb Periphery Common
11 Amaranthus viridis L. Math Amaranthaceae Herb Periphery Common
12 Apluda mutica L. Poaceae Herb Periphery Common
13 Argemone mexicana L. Pivala dhotra Papaveraceae Herb Periphery Common
14 Asclepias curassavica L. Hladi Kunku Apocynaceae Herb Periphery Occasional
Periphery(Natural and
15 Azadirachta indica A.Juss. Kadunimb Meliaceae Tree Planted) Occasional
16 Azolla pinnata R. Br. Salviniaceae Herb Waterbody(Free floating) Abundant
17 Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst. Neerbrahmi Plantaginaceae Herb Periphery Occasional
18 Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. Yellow Bamboo Poaceae Herb Periphery(Planted) Abundant
19 Bauhinia purpurea L. Kanchan Leguminosae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr.
20 & Sherff Compositae Herb Periphery Occasional
21 Boerhavia diffusa L. Punarnava Nyctaginaceae Herb Periphery Occasional
22 Bombax ceiba L. Katesawar Malvaceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
23 Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. Mohori Brassicaceae Herb Periphery Occasional
Calotropis gigantea (L.)
24 Dryand. Rui Apocynaceae Shrub Periphery Occasional
25 Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. Mandukparni Apiaceae Herb Periphery Occasional
26 Chloris virgata Sw. Poaceae Herb Periphery Common
Chromolaena odorata (L.)
27 R.M.King & H.Rob. Ranmari Compositae Herb Periphery Abundant
Chrozophora rottleri (Geiseler)
28 A.Juss. ex Spreng. Suryvarti Euphorbiaceae Shrub Periphery Common
29 Commelina benghalensis L. Keni Commelinaceae Herb Periphery Common
30 Commelina caroliniana Walter Commelinaceae Herb Periphery Common
31 Corchorus sp. Chunch Herb Periphery Common
32 Cordia dichotoma G.Forst. Bhokar Boraginaceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
33 Cosmos sulphureus Cav. Compositae Herb Periphery Occasional
34 Couroupita guianensis Aubl. Kailaspati Lecythidaceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
Cryptostegia grandiflora Roxb.
35 ex R.Br. Apocynaceae Climber Periphery Occasional
36 Cullen corylifolium (L.) Medik. Bavachi Leguminosae Herb Periphery Common
Cyanotis fasciculata (B.Heyne
37 ex Roth) Schult. & Schult.f. Nilwanti Commelinaceae Herb Periphery Common
Cyanthillium cinereum (L.)
38 H.Rob. Sahdevi Compositae Herb Periphery Common
53
39 Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. Harali Poaceae Herb Periphery Common

Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.)
40 Willd. Poaceae Herb Periphery Common
41 Dalbergia sissoo DC. Shisav Leguminosae Tree Periphery Common
42 Datura innoxia Mill. Dhotara Solanaceae Herb Periphery Occasional
43 Datura metel L. Dhotara Solanaceae Herb Periphery Rare
Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.)
44 DC. Leguminosae Herb Periphery Common
45 Digitaria ciliaris (Retz.) Koeler Poaceae Herb Periphery Common
Dinebra retroflexa (Vahl)
46 Panz. Poaceae Herb Periphery Common
47 Echinochloa colona (L.) Link Poaceae Herb Periphery Common
48 Eclipta prostrata (L.) L. Maka Compositae Herb Periphery Occasional
Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.)
49 Solms Jalparni Pontederiaceae Herb Waterbody(free floating) Abundant
50 Eucalyptus globulus Labill. Nilgiri Myrtaceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Common
51 Euphorbia heterophylla L. Dudhi Euphorbiaceae Herb Periphery Common
52 Ficus benghalensis L. Wad Moraceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
53 Ficus racemosa L. Umbar Moraceae Tree Periphery Occasional
54 Ficus religiosa L. Pimpal Moraceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
55 Glinus lotoides L. Molluginaceae Herb Periphery Common
56 Gmelina arborea Roxb. Shivan Lamiaceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
Grangea maderaspatana (L.)
57 Poir. Mashpatri Asteraceae Herb Periphery Common
58 Grewia hirsuta Vahl Malvaceae Shrub Periphery Rare
59 Heliotropium indicum L. Bhurundi Boraginaceae Herb Periphery Occasional
60 Hibiscus sp. Malvaceae Herb Periphery Occasional
Hygrophila auriculata Waterbody and in Marshy
61 (Schumach.) Heine Talimkhana Acanthaceae Herb areas Abundant
62 Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit. Darptulas Lamiaceae Herb Periphery Occasional
63 Indigofera glandulosa Wendl. Borpudi Leguminosae Herb Periphery Rare
Waterbody (Rooted floating
64 Ipomoea aquatica Forssk. Nalichi Bhaji Convolvulaceae Herb ) Abundant
65 Ipomoea carnea Jacq. Besharam Convolvulaceae Shrub Periphery and Waterbody Common
66 Ipomoea triloba L. Convolvulaceae Climber Periphery Common
67 Lagascea mollis Cav. Compositae Herb Periphery Occasional
68 Lantana camara L. Tantani Verbanaceae Shrub Periphery Common
Launaea procumbens (Roxb.)
69 Ramayya & Rajagopal Compositae Herb Periphery Occasional
70 Lemna gibba L. Araceae Herb Waterbody(Free floating) Abundant
Leucaena leucocephala
71 (Lam.) de Wit Subabhul Leguminosae Tree Periphery(Planted) Common
Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.)
72 P.H.Raven Panlawang Onagraceae Herb Periphery Common
Macroptilium atropurpureum
73 (DC.) Urb. Leguminosae Climber Periphery Occasional
74 Mimusops elengi L. Bakul Sapotaceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
75 Muntingia calabura L. Singapore cherry Muntingiaceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
Neolamarckia cadamba
76 (Roxb.) Bosser Kadamb Rubiaceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
Waterbody(Rooted
77 Nymphaea pubescens Willd. Kamal Herb floating) Common
54

Nymphoides cristata (Roxb.) Waterbody(Rooted
78 Kuntze Kumudini Nymphaeaceae Herb floating) Common
79 Oxalis corniculata L. Amboshi Oxalidaceae Herb Periphery Common
80 Parthenium hysterophorus L. Gajar Gavat Compositae Herb Periphery Abundant
81 Passiflora foetida L Welghani Passifloraceae Climber Periphery Common
Persicaria glabra (Willd.)
82 M.Gómez Sheral Polygonaceae Herb Periphery Abundant
83 Phoenix sylvestris (L.) Roxb. Shindi Arecaceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Rare
84 Phyla nodiflora (L.) Greene Neerbrahmi Verbenaceae Herb Periphery Occasional
85 Phyllanthus reticulatus Poir. Panjuli Phyllanthaceae Shrub Periphery Occasional
86 Pistia stratiotes L. Araceae Herb Waterbody(Free floating) Abundant
87 Pluchea ovalis (Pers.) DC. Compositae Shrub Periphery Rare
Periphery and Plantation
88 Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre Karanj Leguminosae Tree area Occasional
89 Portulaca oleracea L. Gholu Portulacaceae Herb Periphery Common
Pseudarthria viscida (L.) Wight
90 & Arn. Leguminosae Shrub Periphery Common
Pterospermum acerifolium (L.)
91 Willd. Muchkund Malvaceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
92 Putranjiva roxburghii Wall. Putranjiva Putranjivaceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
93 Ricinus communis L. Erand Euphorbiaceae Shrub Periphery Common
Senna siamea (Lam.) H.S.Irwin
94 & Barneby Kashid Leguminosae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
95 Senna tora (L.) Roxb. Takala Leguminosae Herb Periphery Common
Senna uniflora (Mill.)
96 H.S.Irwin & Barneby Herb Periphery Abundant
97 Sesbania sesban (L.) Merr. Shevari Leguminosae Shrub Periphery Common
Setaria pumila (Poir.) Roem. &
98 Schult. Poaceae Herb Periphery Common
99 Sida acuta Burm.f. Bala Malvaceae Herb Periphery Occasional
Spirodela polyrrhiza (L.)
100 Schleid. Tikali Araceae Herb Waterbody(Free floating) Abundant
101 Sterculia foetida L. Punai Malvaceae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
Synedrella nodiflora (L.)
102 Gaertn. Compositae Herb Periphery Common
103 Tamarindus indica L. Chinch Leguminosae Tree Periphery(Planted) Occasional
Terminalia arjuna (Roxb. ex
104 DC.) Wight & Arn. Arjun Combretaceae Tree Periphery Occasional
Themeda quadrivalvis (L.)
105 Kuntze Poaceae Herb Periphery Common
Tithonia rotundifolia (Mill.)
106 S.F.Blake Compositae Herb Periphery Rare
107 Tridax procumbens (L.) L. Ekdandi Compositae Herb Periphery Common
Waterbody(Rooted
108 Typha angustifolia L. Ramban/Pankanis Typhaceae Herb emergent) Common
109 Urena lobata L. Malvaceae Herb Periphery Occasional
110 Xanthium strumarium L. Shankeshwar Compositae Herb Periphery Common
111 Bamboo sps Poaceae Herb Periphery Abundant
55
Annexure III – Checklist of birds of Pashan Lake, all year round. From eBird.
Source - ebird.org/ebird/hotspot/L1944566
Waterfowl Rails, Gallinules, and Allies
1 Lesser Whistling-Duck Dendrocygna javanica 51 White-breasted Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus
2 Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus 52 Brown Crake Zapornia akool
3 Comb Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos 53 Gray-headed Swamphen Porphyrio poliocephalus
4 Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea 54 Eurasian Moorhen Gallinula chloropus
5 Cotton Pygmy-Goose Nettapus coromandelianus 55 Eurasian Coot Fulica atra
6 Garganey Spatula querquedula Shorebirds
7 Northern Shoveler Spatula clypeata 56 Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus
8 Gadwall Mareca strepera 57 Yellow-wattled Lapwing Vanellus malabaricus
9 Eurasian Wigeon Mareca penelope 58 Red-wattled Lapwing Vanellus indicus
10 Indian Spot-billed Duck Anas poecilorhyncha 59 Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus
11 Northern Pintail Anas acuta 60 Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius
12 Green-winged Teal Anas crecca 61 small plover sp. Charadrius sp.
13 Common Pochard Aythya ferina 62 Greater Painted-Snipe Rostratula benghalensis
14 Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca 63 Pheasant-tailed Jacana Hydrophasianus chirurgus
15 Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula 64 Bronze-winged Jacana Metopidius indicus
Grouse, Quail, and Allies 65 Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago
16 Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus 66 Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos
17 Gray Francolin Francolinus pondicerianus 67 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus
Loons and Grebes 68 Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus
18 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis 69 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia
Storks 70 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis
19 Asian Openbill Anastomus oscitans 71 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola
20 Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus 72 Common Redshank Tringa totanus
21 Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala 73 Indian Courser Cursorius coromandelicus
Cormorants and Anhingas Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers
22 Little Cormorant Microcarbo niger 74 Brown-headed Gull Chroicocephalus brunnicephalus
23 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo 75 Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica
24 Indian Cormorant Phalacrocorax fuscicollis 76 Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida
25 Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster 77 River Tern Sterna aurantia
Herons, Ibis, and Allies Pigeons and Doves
26 Cinnamon Bittern Ixobrychus cinnamomeus 78 Rock Pigeon Columba livia
27 Gray Heron Ardea cinerea 79 Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis
28 Purple Heron Ardea purpurea 80 Laughing Dove Streptopelia senegalensis
29 Great Egret Ardea alba 81 Yellow-footed Pigeon Treron phoenicopterus
30 Intermediate Egret Ardea intermedia Cuckoos
31 Little Egret Egretta garzetta 82 Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis
32 Western Reef-Heron Egretta gularis 83 Asian Koel Eudynamys scolopaceus
33 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis 84 Gray-bellied Cuckoo Cacomantis passerinus
34 Indian Pond-Heron Ardeola grayii 85 Fork-tailed Drongo-Cuckoo Surniculus dicruroides
Black-crowned Night-Heron Nycticorax
Common Hawk-Cuckoo Hierococcyx varius
35 nycticorax 87
36 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus 88 Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus
37 Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus Swifts
38 Red-naped Ibis Pseudibis papillosa 89 Little Swift Apus affinis
39 Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia 90 Asian Palm-Swift Cypsiurus balasiensis
Vultures, Hawks, and Allies Hoopoes
40 Black-shouldered Kite Elanus caeruleus 91 Eurasian Hoopoe Upupa epops
41 Oriental Honey-buzzard Pernis ptilorhynchus Hornbills
42 White-rumped Vulture Gyps bengalensis 92 Indian Gray Hornbill Ocyceros birostris
43 Short-toed Snake-Eagle Circaetus gallicus Kingfishers
44 Crested Hawk-Eagle Nisaetus cirrhatus 93 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis
45 Greater Spotted Eagle Clanga clanga 94 White-throated Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis
46 White-eyed Buzzard Butastur teesa 95 Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis
56
47 Eurasian Marsh-Harrier Circus aeruginosus Bee-eaters, Rollers, and Allies

48 Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus 96 Green Bee-eater Merops orientalis
49 Shikra Accipiter badius 97 Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis
50 Black Kite Milvus migrans Barbets and Toucans
98 Coppersmith Barbet Psilopogon haemacephalus
99 White-cheeked Barbet Psilopogon viridis
Woodpeckers Reed Warblers and Allies
100 Eurasian Wryneck Jynx torquilla 147 Booted Warbler Iduna caligata
Yellow-crowned Woodpecker Dendrocopos
Sykes's Warbler Iduna rama
101 mahrattensis 148
Falcons and Caracaras 149 Paddyfield Warbler Acrocephalus agricola
102 Eurasian Kestrel Falco tinnunculus 150 Blyth's Reed Warbler Acrocephalus dumetorum
103 Red-necked Falcon Falco chicquera 151 Clamorous Reed Warbler Acrocephalus stentoreus
Parrots, Parakeets, and Allies Cisticolas and Allies
104 Alexandrine Parakeet Psittacula eupatria 152 Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis
105 Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri 153 Common Tailorbird Orthotomus sutorius
106 Plum-headed Parakeet Psittacula cyanocephala 154 Gray-breasted Prinia Prinia hodgsonii
Vangas, Helmetshrikes, and Allies 155 Jungle Prinia Prinia sylvatica
Common Woodshrike Tephrodornis
Ashy Prinia Prinia socialis
107 pondicerianus 156
Ioras 157 Plain Prinia Prinia inornata
108 Common Iora Aegithina tiphia Sylviid Warblers
109 White-bellied Minivet Pericrocotus erythropygius 158 Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca
110 Small Minivet Pericrocotus cinnamomeus 159 Eastern Orphean Warbler Sylvia crassirostris
111 Black-headed Cuckooshrike Lalage melanoptera Parrotbills, Wrentit, and Allies
Shrikes 160 Yellow-eyed Babbler Chrysomma sinense
112 Brown Shrike Lanius cristatus White-eyes, Yuhinas, and Allies
113 Bay-backed Shrike Lanius vittatus 161 Oriental White-eye Zosterops palpebrosus
114 Long-tailed Shrike Lanius schach Ground Babblers and Allies
115 Old World Orioles 162 Puff-throated Babbler Pellorneum ruficeps
116 Indian Golden Oriole Oriolus kundoo 163 Laughingthrushes and Allies
117 Black-hooded Oriole Oriolus xanthornus 164 Common Babbler Turdoides caudata
Drongos 165 Large Gray Babbler Turdoides malcolmi
118 Black Drongo Dicrurus macrocercus 166 Jungle Babbler Turdoides striata
119 Ashy Drongo Dicrurus leucophaeus Old World Flycatchers
120 White-bellied Drongo Dicrurus caerulescens 167 Asian Brown Flycatcher Muscicapa dauurica
Fantails 168 Indian Robin Copsychus fulicatus
121 Spot-breasted Fantail Rhipidura albogularis 169 Oriental Magpie-Robin Copsychus saularis
Monarch Flycatchers 170 Tickell's Blue Flycatcher Cyornis tickelliae
122 Indian Paradise-Flycatcher Terpsiphone paradisi 171 Taiga Flycatcher Ficedula albicilla
123 Jays, Magpies, Crows, and Ravens 172 Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva
124 Rufous Treepie Dendrocitta vagabunda 173 Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros
125 House Crow Corvus splendens 174 Siberian Stonechat Saxicola maurus
126 Large-billed Crow Corvus macrorhynchos 175 Pied Bushchat Saxicola caprata
Larks Thrushes
127 Rufous-tailed Lark Ammomanes phoenicura 176 Orange-headed Thrush Geokichla citrina
128 Ashy-crowned Sparrow-Lark Eremopterix griseus 177 Indian Blackbird Turdus simillimus
129 Indian Bushlark Mirafra erythroptera Starlings and Mynas
Martins and Swallows 178 Rosy Starling Pastor roseus
130 Bank Swallow Riparia riparia 179 Brahminy Starling Sturnia pagodarum
131 Eurasian Crag-Martin Ptyonoprogne rupestris 180 Chestnut-tailed Starling Sturnia malabarica
132 Dusky Crag-Martin Ptyonoprogne concolor 181 Common Myna Acridotheres tristis
133 Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica 182 Jungle Myna Acridotheres fuscus
134 Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii Flowerpeckers
135 Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica 183 Thick-billed Flowerpecker Dicaeum agile
136 Streak-throated Swallow Petrochelidon fluvicola 184 Pale-billed Flowerpecker Dicaeum erythrorhynchos
Fairy Flycatchers Sunbirds and Spiderhunters
57
Gray-headed Canary-Flycatcher Culicicapa

Purple-rumped Sunbird Leptocoma zeylonica
137 ceylonensis 185
Tits, Chickadees, and Titmice 186 Purple Sunbird Cinnyris asiaticus
138 Cinereous Tit Parus cinereus Wagtails and Pipits
139 Indian Tit Machlolophus aplonotus 187 Forest Wagtail Dendronanthus indicus
Bulbuls 188 Western Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava
140 Red-vented Bulbul Pycnonotus cafer 189 Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola
141 Red-whiskered Bulbul Pycnonotus jocosus 190 Gray Wagtail Motacilla cinerea
142 White-browed Bulbul Pycnonotus luteolus 191 White Wagtail Motacilla alba
Leaf Warblers 192 White-browed Wagtail Motacilla maderaspatensis
143 Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita 193 Paddyfield Pipit Anthus rufulus
144 Tickell's Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus affinis 194 Blyth's Pipit Anthus godlewskii
145 Greenish Warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides 195 Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis
Green/Greenish Warbler Phylloscopus
Olive-backed Pipit Anthus hodgsoni
146 nitidus/trochiloides 196
Old World Buntings

197 Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala
Old World Sparrows
198 House Sparrow Passer domesticus
Chestnut-shouldered Petronia Petronia
199 xanthocollis
Weavers and Allies
200 Baya Weaver Ploceus philippinus
Estrildids
201 Red Avadavat Amandava amandava
202 Indian Silverbill Euodice malabarica
203 Scaly-breasted Munia Lonchura punctulata
58
Annexure IV – Checklist of birds of Pashan Lake, during the project
7 Indian Spot-billed Duck

3 Little Grebe
1 Little Cormorant
3 Intermediate Egret
1 Cattle Egret (Eastern)
1 Indian Pond-Heron
2 Black-crowned Night-Heron
2 Glossy Ibis
1 Black Kite
2 White-breasted Waterhen
2 Gray-headed Swamphen
11 Eurasian Coot
1 Red-wattled Lapwing
1 Pheasant-tailed Jacana
1 Common Sandpiper
1 River Tern
1 Asian Koel
1 Gray-bellied Cuckoo
1 Common Iora
1 Black Drongo
2 Spot-breasted Fantail
3 Dusky Crag-Martin
2 Wire-tailed Swallow
1 Cinereous Tit
1 Red-vented Bulbul
1 Common Tailorbird
2 Ashy Prinia
1 Oriental Magpie-Robin
1 Tickell's Blue Flycatcher
4 Common Myna
2 Jungle Myna
1 Pale-billed Flowerpecker
Number of Taxa: 32
59
Annexures IV – Socio-economic survey
What residents of Sutarwadi had to say

1. The lake must be managed well.
2. Companies must follow STP regulations and should not let sewage into lake.
3. Good quality of fish must be introduced
4. This can become good tourist spot if developed very well.
5. Lake and vicinity must be kept clean
6. Biodiversity must be maintained.
7. Why are exotic trees planted?
8. Concern over nuisance of mosquitoes, snakes and bad odour of water
9. Cattles must be allowed in water
10. Old system of filtration of water system must be revived.
11. Removal of silt must be carried out
12. Swimming activity must be restarted.
What did the visitors and exercisers say

Most of the respondents were residents of Baner, Pashan and Aundh suburbs. Their comments and
suggestions are listed below
1. The water in the lake must be clean. The water stinks and this must be prevented.
2. Water hyacinth must be removed
3. Food should not be allowed in the garden.
4. Playground should be discontinued
5. Adequate staff needed for management
6. Collecting firewood must be stopped
7. Control of stray dogs is essential
8. Boating must be started
9. Security and maintenance must be done
10. Garbage free and plastic free area must be promoted
11. Green cover must be maintained
12. Walking paths and trails must be maintained
13. Playing cards and consumption of alcohol must be stopped
14. Fishing activity must be started
15. Entry fee can be charged for the people who come for photography excursions. Especially those
who come here for pre-wedding photo shoots. Bird watchers can be charged based the lens/
equipment.
16. The bushes at the right turn after the main entrance should be preserved as many birds can be seen
even in the bushes. The trail must be maintained so that in rainy season people can walk on trail.
17. The island in the middle of the lake must be preserved as many migrating birds make their nests
and those good breeding habitats for birds.
60
18. Some bird watchers said that there should be more entry points to the lake to make it accessible
and safe for them, as they carry expensive equipment.
19. Without a single exception everyone pointed out the spreading of hyacinths in summers and
winters is the big problem which spoils the quality of water such as odour and colour of water is so
bad particularly in summer season.
Residents of Ramnagar colony, Bawdhan

Ramnagar colony is situated at southern side of lake, in the Bawdhan area. In October 2010, citizens of the
Bavdhan and Pashan area experienced the fury of the Ram Nadi and its tributaries when nearly the entire
Bavdhan area was submerged under water. In a single society, residents faced Rs. 2-3 lakhs in damages
each; 4 people drowned, including a 25 year old PhD researcher working in the National Chemical
Laboratory. The streams, which were built over, broke their confinements; walls, shanties and houses
collapsed causing further casualties1. By evening the electricity supply was off, the water entered in
houses. The next day was more horrifying, there was no water supply and electricity. Till evening there was
no electricity.
The Ram Nadi drains over a watershed area of nearly 51 square kilometres. It originates near Khatpewadi
village in the Sahyadri ranges and drains into the Mula. Along the way, it passes through Aundh, Bavdhan
and Pashan in Pune city and Bhukum Someshwarvadi, Bhugaon, Pirangut and other villages in the Sahyadri.
The flash floods which had caused extensive damages in Bavdhan and other areas had brought to attention
the issue of unauthorised construction and vanishing streams of the Ram Nadi for the first time.
Ms Indu Gupta and her friends took this situation to improve the conditions of the Ramnadi. They filed a
case against encroachments on river and the sewage ingress into the river. Jalbiradari and Mr Sarang
Yadwadkar joined the movement which finally reached the NGT for legal battle. While the outcome is still
awaited, there has been a National Green Tribunal (NGT) judgement asking the PMC and PMRDA not to
allow any construction on either river bank till the next hearing. The NGT bench observed that it is prima
facie clear that large construction activities have been carried out earlier on the river embankment and
they generated debris and other material. "It appears that the developers or their workers dumped debris
and other material in the bed of the river, which blocked the river water or that the river itself (has been)
made to disappear," states the order2. This is important, considering that there is a 15% cut in river’s width
because of unauthorized construction activity3.
A report observed that the settlements along Ram Nadi have increased by nearly 42 per cent in the last 25
years. This has increased the sewage load of the river and this eventually drains into the Pashan Lake.
1
http://www.indiawaterportal.org/articles/ram-nadi-citizens-pune-hunger-strike-save-their-river
2
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/No-construction-permitted-along-Ramnadi-without-NGT-panel-
nod/articleshow/47422097.cms?from=mdr
3
http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/pune/15-cut-in-stream-width-20-missing-ram-nadi-is-dying/
61
"The privilege of possessing the earth entails the responsibility of
passing it on, for the better for our use, not only to immediate
posterity, but to the Unkown Future" Aldo Leopold
Pashank lake is a rich abode of biodiversity, especially birds. The

lake is a heritage with a natural charm, one that connects culturally
and spiritually to its beholders. Over the years, neglect and
improper interventions have degraded the lake ecosystem and
changed the �lora and fauna. Nature has a unique way of restoring
itself and it is possible to revive the ecological functions and bring
back the natural beauty to Pashan Lake. The Ecological Society
undertook a study of the ecosystem, made �ield surveys, studied
prior reports and has prepared this recommendation plan for
ecological restoration and management of Pashan Lake.
"...Ecosystem needs are more important than consumer needs and we

must accord higher priorities to nature conservation than to the
creation of wealth. " Prakash Gole.
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Ecological Restoration and Management Plan for Pashan Lake Ecological

Technical Report · December 2017

Gurudas Nulkar Swati Gole

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Environmental sustainability for SMEs View project

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Dr. Swati Gole

Rationale of the project

Setting the objectives

Data collection - Data collection - Data collection -

Documenting past interventions

Identifying sources of pollution

Meetings with experts

Data collation and analysis

1. Collection of faunal data

2. Collection of floral data

To understand the human connections with the lake, we conducted a socio-economic

4. Documenting past interventions

5. Documenting sources of pollution

1. We have documented 110 plant species of which Climbers-4, Herbs-72, Shrubs-10,

absence of seasonal aquatic species like Hydrilla Vallisneria, Ceratophyllum and

Roosting and Nesting Sites

Key species/vulnerable species and threats

Corridors to sustain the population of species

a. Woodland , the plantation area

Perches and corridors

Observations on the past interventions

Sources of pollution in the lake

Rock pitching walls and Eutrophication

Ramnadi sewage entering the lake

For this, we identified three categories of stakeholders. We prepared questionnaires for

Category of respondents Number of

3 | Analysis of changing bird life

Brief review of trend in Bird lists at Pashan lake

Brief review of trend in bird flock size for selected species

1 Northern Pintail Anas acuta 325 30 15 Drastic decline during and

Brief review of trend in pollution indicator species at the lake premise

Red wattled Lapwing

Spot billed ducks

4 | Management and restoration plan

Problems to be addressed by the plan

Excessive Physical &

Proliferation of Construction and

Figure 5: Four major threats to Pashan Lake

Excessive nutrients and organic matter

Physical and hydrological changes

Proliferation of exotic species

Construction and beautification interventions

As is evident from many cases in India, revival of common property ecosystems is a

Methodology of the Restoration Program

Administrative, regulatory and enforcement backup

Social awareness Community participation

Measures to Measures to reduce Measures to control

Continuous Pashan Lake

Figure 6: Ecological restoration and management plan

Administrative, regulatory and enforcement backup

Measures for improvement in flora, fauna and habitats