Dubai: Tea-Coloured Pond Water near Mall of the Emirates Raises Concerns

Visitors to the renowned Mall of the Emirates Jogging Pond in Al Barsha have expressed growing concerns about the diminishing water quality at this popular spot. Recent photographs obtained by Khaleej Times reveal thick layers of unappealing tea-colored or brown water.

Situated near the Mall of the Emirates Metro Station and directly opposite the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, the area has been a favorite among visitors, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Even nearby residents, like Alain, a Filipino expatriate who has frequented the park for nearly two years, expressed surprise at the deteriorating conditions. “I regularly walk or run along the trail, given its proximity to my residence. However, the muddy brown water is a turn-off. There’s now an unpleasant smell lingering in the air,” he said.

A response from the Dubai Municipality, responsible for park maintenance, was not available at the time of reporting. Offering insight into the situation, Imteyaz Ahmad, Managing Director of Future Water and Power Consulting, suggested that the discolored water could be the onset of algal bloom, possibly linked to weather conditions and changes in water quality.

Algal blooms are dense accumulations of tiny green plants on the water’s surface, often caused by an excess of nutrients, primarily phosphorus, on which algae depend for growth.

Ahmad emphasized caution, noting, “These waters can be toxic, and it’s advisable for people to avoid contact until the Municipality takes action to treat it.”

The situation underscores the importance of proactive measures by relevant authorities to address environmental concerns promptly. As visitors and residents raise alarms about the water quality at this popular jogging pond, there is a growing expectation for swift intervention to ensure the well-being of the public and the preservation of the scenic spot’s natural beauty.