Kolkata, February 28 A group of environmental activists raised concerns on Saturday about the potential for toxic color pollution of Rabindra Sarovar, a 73-acre lake in South Kolkata, during the two-day Holi celebrations next week.
The 'Save Rabindra Sarobar Forum' brought this issue to the attention of the lake custodian, the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA).
The Forum demanded uniform enforcement of gate restrictions throughout the lake premises, including clubs located within the compound, leading up to the Doljatra festival on March 3 and the Holi celebration the following day.
Both days will be celebrated as a festival of colors in West Bengal.
"Why is there discrimination between visitors and club members? If gates must remain closed during a specified time, this should apply to everyone," said Somendra Mohan Ghosh, a spokesperson for the Forum.
In a letter to the KMDA, the Forum alleged that the lake could be contaminated during the Doljatra and Holi celebrations, and stated that even clubs with separate entry points should comply with KMDA directives.
"Any social event organized on February 3 and 4, 2026, during Doljatra/Holi within the Sarobar compound could potentially pollute the ecologically sensitive water body," the letter read.
Describing the situation as "extremely serious and important" given the rising toxicity levels in the lake, the Forum demanded that all gates of Rabindra Sarovar be closed in accordance with official orders, and that enforcement of guidelines should be applied equally.
"The law applies to everyone. If morning and evening walkers can sacrifice their interests for environmental protection, why not the clubs?" Ghosh asked on behalf of the Forum.
Rabindra Sarobar, often referred to as the "lungs of South Kolkata," is a major urban water body maintained by the KMDA and is home to diverse flora and fauna, in addition to serving as a popular recreational hub for residents.
A senior KMDA official told
"Appropriate measures are taken every year to prevent pollution of the lake during festivals. We have already asked the clubs to take certain steps regarding the use of colors and 'gulal' during Doljatra/Holi celebrations and to ensure that environmental norms and court-mandated guidelines are strictly followed," the official said.
All stakeholders are expected to comply with the rules framed for the protection of the lake ecosystem, the official added.