‘Ensure sustained conservation of Gilsar, Khushalsar lakes’
Srinagar, Jan 17: The Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO) has expressed concern over the slow pace and unscientific execution of restoration works at the twin urban lakes of Gilsar and Khushalsar.
“This is particularly worrying given that the revival of these lakes under Mission Ehsaas was publicly appreciated by the Prime Minister and inaugurated by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir,” NLCO Chairman Manzoor Wangnoo said in a statement.
“Over the years, the lakes have witnessed repeated visits and reviews by senior officials, including the Chief Secretary, Divisional Commissioner, Commissioner SMC, and other high-ranking officers. Such sustained attention had generated strong public expectations that restoration would proceed with urgency, scientific planning, and institutional seriousness,” he said.
“However, the current on-ground progress remains far from satisfactory. The work lacks scientific sequencing, continuity, and visible accountability. Urban lakes of such ecological and hydrological significance cannot be addressed through fragmented or ad-hoc interventions. They demand sustained de-silting, scientific muck disposal, drainage correction, and expert-driven lake management practices,” he said.
“NLCO cautions that delays and unscientific handling risk reversing the hard-earned gains achieved through years of community participation and volunteer-led efforts under Mission Ehsaas. Beyond ecology, Gilsar and Khushalsar are vital to Srinagar’s tourism landscape. Healthy, well-managed lakes enhance the city’s image, support livelihoods, and are essential for promoting sustainable, eco-sensitive tourism. Neglect not only damages the environment but also undermines long-term tourism potential and public confidence,” he added.
From a sustainability perspective, he said these lakes play a crucial role in flood mitigation, groundwater recharge, urban climate regulation, and the overall environmental health of Srinagar. “Their degradation poses serious risks to both present needs and future generations. NLCO urges the administration to take immediate corrective measures and ensure that the Lake Conservation and Management Authority strengthens manpower, deploys adequate machinery, and enforces strict technical oversight so that restoration proceeds on scientific, sustainable, and time-bound lines,” he added.
NLCO urges the administration and LCMA to strengthen manpower, machinery, and technical oversight to ensure time-bound, scientific, and sustainable restoration, safeguarding these lakes for future generations.
