The Gilgit-Baltistan Environmental Protection Department has recommended a five year ban on the construction and expansion of hotels, motels and commercial residences around Hunza’s three iconic lakes Attabad, Doiker and Borit due to escalating environmental pollution risks.
A department report revealed that unplanned and unregulated hotel construction, inadequate sewage systems and the widespread use of diesel generators are contributing to water and air pollution, adversely affecting the local ecosystem, human health and tourism activities.
The report highlighted that outdated, inefficient and low-capacity sewage systems in hotels are causing untreated wastewater to flow directly into the Hunza River and adjacent water channels.
Recent water sample analyses confirmed sewage contamination, raising serious concerns about the spread of diseases such as typhoid, hepatitis and dysentery.
Air pollution from extensive diesel generator use was also flagged as a major issue, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses and contradicting Hunza’s image as a pristine natural destination.
The report specifically pointed to the “Mushroom Hotel” in Doiker as a significant contributor to the region’s deteriorating environmental balance due to its inappropriate construction. It warned that inadequate sewage and human waste management systems pose severe threats to the fragile mountain ecosystem.
Regarding Attabad Lake, the report emphasized that a construction ban would not only safeguard water quality but also protect the area from natural hazards like floods and landslides, while ensuring a consistent supply of clean drinking water.
The department further proposed restrictions on boating and other tourism activities in the lakes to preserve their natural balance.
Borit Lake, designated as a protected area under the Forest Act 2019 and a critical habitat for rare migratory birds, is facing disruptions to bird migration and breeding due to increased human activity and boating, threatening its international ecological significance.
The Environmental Protection Department urged the government to implement comprehensive and stringent measures to curb illegal constructions, pollution sources, and tourism pressures to preserve Hunza’s natural beauty and ecological balance for future generations.