Lakes across the globe are facing rapid vulnerability as a result of various factors, including urbanization, population growth, river diversion, groundwater exploitation, climate change, and the input of anthropogenic pollutants. These forces gradually degrade the interconnected systems of lakes that have thrived for centuries.
The following illustration depicts the story of Makarba Lake, one of the largest lakes in Ahmedabad. It provides a small-scale example featuring three interconnected lakes. In the past, when one lake overflowed, its water naturally flowed into the other lakes due to the surrounding topography and hydrological system. However, the current state of these lakes has been adversely affected by the construction of highways, illegal sand mining, changes in land use, and excessive groundwater extraction. These factors have contributed to the degradation of the lake's ecosystem.
The illustration conveys the narrative of these disappearing lakes by employing various shades of blue, symbolizing the alarming decrease in water levels and the tragic demise of these once-thriving bodies of water.
Inspired by the story of Puttenahalli Neighborhood Lake Improvement Trust