Absence of specific authority control over lakes lingers
Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, Oct 23: While there has been no progress on the transfer of Khushal Sar and Gilsar to a specific authority for sustained, long-term conservation, the J&K Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) today said that it is in the process of dispatching machinery for cleaning the twin lakes.
Officials informed ‘Excelsior’ that, in compliance to the directives from Chief Secretary Arun Kumar Mehta, the LCMA is currently in the process of finalizing the necessary procedures for sending equipment to the lakes.
This, they said, will ensure the effective cleaning of both lakes, where conservation efforts are already underway as part of the Nigeen Lake Conservation Plan (NLCO) with other departments.
The officials stated, “The Chief Secretary has issued the instructions, and as per his guidance, we will send two machines to Khushal Sar and Gilsar by the end of this month to facilitate the thorough cleaning of the lakes, thereby, complementing the ongoing conservation endeavors.”
Currently, it seems that the administration’s efforts will be primarily focused on cleaning. According to officials, future plans for the rejuvenation and long-term conservation of both lakes, as well as specific strategies, will be developed once a designated authority takes control of the water bodies.
“The process of transferring control is underway, and necessary efforts are being made in this regard. However, the ultimate decision will be made by the administration. Although the Irrigation and Flood Control Department had been developing an integrated plan, the details are currently unclear,” they added.
Currently, the NLCO, in collaboration with the district administration, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), and other relevant departments, has been engaged in conservation efforts for nearly three years, resulting in significant improvements on the ground.
However, the stakeholders stress the need for a comprehensive, long-term plan for the rejuvenation and conservation of these lakes.
“We have done everything within our means so far. However, there is a pressing need for authorities to develop a long-term conservation and rejuvenation plan for both lakes. They are of great importance to urban hydrology, and their well-being could have positive effects on Dal and Nigeen Lake,” Manzoor Ahmad Wangnoo, Chairman NLCO told Excelsior.
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