Archive · 29 Jan 2026
HC Takes Suo Motu Cognisance of Lonar Crater Crisis
The Bombay High Court has started a special case to help the Lonar Crater Lake in Maharashtra.
The lake's water level has risen a lot, which is causing old temples around it to sink.
The court wants to protect these temples and the special lake.
The problem is caused by things like dirty water going into the lake and too many trees being planted.
The court has asked many government groups to help fix the problem quickly.
Bombay High Court initiates suo motu PIL to address rising water levels at Lonar Crater Lake.
Water levels have risen by 20 feet, submerging 9 out of 15 ancient temples.
Key temples at risk include Kamalja Devi, Daitya Sudhan, Motha Maruti, and Gaumuk.
Causes include untreated sewage, excessive tree plantation, and possible seepage from nearby sources.
Court issues notices to multiple state departments and agencies, seeking replies within two weeks.
- Who
- Bombay High Court (Nagpur Bench), Amicus Curiae Mohit Khajanchi
- What
- Initiation of suo motu PIL to address rising water levels at Lonar Crater Lake
- When
- Current situation, with references to November 2025 water levels
- Where
- Lonar Crater Lake, Buldhana district, Maharashtra
- Why
- To preserve the lake's natural state and protect ancient temples from submergence
- Location
- Buldhana district, Maharashtra
- Water Level Rise
- 20 feet
- Submerged Temples
- 9 out of 15
- Temples at Risk
- Kamalja Devi, Daitya Sudhan, Motha Maruti, Gaumuk
- Causes
- Untreated sewage, excessive tree plantation, possible seepage
- Court Action
- Suo motu PIL initiated
- Respondents Notified
- Multiple state departments and agencies
- Deadline for Replies
- Two weeks