Anantnag's Sherbagh garden, springs cry for attention
The iconic Sherbagh garden, nestled at the foothills of this south Kashmir town and renowned for its sulphur springs and majestic chinar trees, is craving attention.
Once a symbol of natural beauty and a source of attraction for residents and tourists, the garden now faces neglect. Heaps of garbage emitting foul odors are strewn across the garden, while polythene and plastic waste floats in the Nagbal springs.
The once-pristine area, cherished for its lush green grass, fragrant flowers, evergreen plants, and sulphur springs, now struggles to attract visitors.
“There was a time when tourists visiting Pahalgam, Kokernag, Daksum, Verinag, and Achabal would end their journey with an evening at Sherbagh,” reminisced local resident Riyaz Ahmad. “Now, its miserable condition keeps people away.”
Residents lament that the garden, once a favourite evening spot under the chinar trees or by the springs, has become unappealing due to its shabby condition.
Despite significant funds being allocated for its redevelopment over the past decade, locals argue that poor planning has rendered these efforts futile.
"The springs, once adorned with natural pebbles, were replaced with artificial tiles, disrupting the ecosystem of flora and fauna," said Ajaz Ahmad. The springs, once teeming with fish, have lost their natural charm. Fencing the major springs has further marred its beauty.
"This fencing was unnecessary and a sheer waste of money," residents said, adding that funds could have been better used for maintenance and cleaning. The rerouting of one spring outlet to create artificial watercourses has also drawn criticism for detracting from the garden’s natural essence.
The parks within Sherbagh now stand barren, with no grass visible, further highlighting the extent of neglect.
“Sherbagh is the soul of this town, and the town feels incomplete without it,” said Aadil Khurshid, 50, recalling fond childhood memories. “Authorities must restore its pristine beauty before it is too late. The people of Anantnag should also take responsibility and join hands to save this historical garden.”
