Attabad Lake Pollution: Hotel Fined Rs1.5 Million
The fine and sealing of the hotel have highlighted the need for sustainable development and environmental protection in the region, with local authorities taking steps to address the concerns of environmentalists and social activists, and ensuring that the beauty of Attabad Lake is preserved for future generations.
The Gilgit-Baltistan Environmental Protection Agency has sealed a section of the Luxus Hunza hotel and imposed a fine of Rs1.5 million for environmental violations, citing non-compliances with construction and environmental regulations near Attabad Lake.
The agency's inspection found no evidence of sewage discharge from the hotel into the lake, but identified other environmental violations, prompting the fine and sealing of a part of the hotel. Local environmentalists and social activists have expressed concerns over unchecked development around the lake, citing violations of environmental regulations and lack of proper water treatment facilities.
The incident has raised questions about sustainable development in the region, with Attabad Lake facing growing environmental pressure. A viral video by travel vlogger George Buckley had sparked outrage in Pakistan, alleging that a well-known resort in Hunza was dumping sewage directly into Attabad Lake. The hotel management has denied allegations of sewage leakage, attributing the murky water to a natural stormwater drain.
The matter will be heard at the magistrate's court for legal proceedings, as locals have protested against the hotel for allegedly causing severe pollution in the lake. The GB administration's action has been seen as a step towards addressing environmental concerns in the region, with Attabad Lake being a major tourist attraction and a source of concern for environmentalists.