Maharashtra's Lonar Lake under watch as scientist flags pH shift and rising water levels

Concerns have been raised over the changing ecological condition of the iconic Lonar Lake , with renowned astronomer and space researcher DK Soman warning of unusual variations in water quality and water levels that may signal a deeper environmental disturbance.

Speaking at a science programme in Thane, Soman highlighted that the crater lake in Maharashtra’s Buldhana district is not just a natural wonder but also a site of major scientific importance. Formed nearly 52,000 years ago after a high velocity meteor impact on basalt rock, the lake is considered one of the world’s most significant geological formations.

Soman noted that the pH level of the lake water , known for its strong alkalinity, is now showing signs of change, raising concerns among researchers who have long considered it a stable saline ecosystem. Even more unusual is the sudden rise in water level during summer , a period when evaporation typically keeps levels low.

This unexpected increase has reportedly led to the partial submergence of ancient Hemadpanthi temples located within the crater, adding both cultural and archaeological concern to the environmental issue.

According to Soman, possible reasons may include human activities such as borewell drilling in surrounding areas or seepage from nearby water bodies, though he stressed these are only preliminary observations.

He urged authorities to carry out a detailed scientific investigation into the lake’s changing condition and take immediate corrective action , warning that continued disruption could threaten both its ecological balance and global scientific value.

The lake, long regarded as a natural laboratory for planetary science, now faces renewed attention as experts call for urgent monitoring and protection efforts.