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| Amid crisis situation, Govt neglects water bodies | | |
Ishtiyaq Ahmad
Early Times Report
SRINAGAR, Sept 6: Amid crisis situation, the water bodies in Kashmir have been neglected by the government and the people alike.
Take for instance; the authorities have ignored the famed water body of Kashmir, Hokersar.
An official said for last one month, no attention has been paid towards it.
The official said that influx of sewage and solid waste from flood spill channel has led to deterioration of the Hokarsar's condition.
Situated on city outskirts, Hokersar till a few decades ago was known as the 'Queen of Wetlands'. Hokersar is an important refuge for migratory waterfowls, shorebirds and trans-Himalayan species during winters. It also acts as one of the major flood absorption basins.
However, without any preservation measures, the Hokersar has been pushed to the verge of extinction.
As per an document, the human intervention and vagaries of weather have caused annihilation to Hokersar wetland.
"There is a desired the need for its preservation and restoration to its pristine glory being sojourn to the migratory birds, visiting the valley from Siberia, Central Asia, etc during winters," the document reads.
While a senior official said that authorities of Irrigation and Flood Control Department have been directed to construct hydraulic gates at the entry and exit points of Hokerkar wetland in order to maintain minimum water level in the wetland.
"They also has been directed to dispose of the dredged material outside the periphery of Hokersar wetland and some of it shall be utilize for raising and strengthening of the bunds," the official said.
Similarly, due to huge infestation of weeds, large parts of the Dal Lake could be seen these days covered with green cover.
Even excessive weeds could also been seen across the lake.
"When one goes into the interiors of the lake, you will find how the famous lake is turning into a swamp," he added.
In absence of any de-weeding operation-manually or by machines-the weeds and lily pads have engulfed Dal Lake.
For the last 16 years, Rs 800 crores have been spent on conservation of Dal Lake.
Governor Satya Pal Malik recently blamed hotel and houseboat owners for polluting Dal Lake.
"See the condition of Dal Lake. We are going to cancel licences of those who fail to install STPs. We will restore its lost glory within 18 months. People living in the lake will also be rehabilitated," the Governor had said.
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