Restoring the Glory of Khushalsar and Gilsar Lakes: A Call to Action

Manzoor Wangnoo

Khushalsar and Gilsar lakes, with their rich historical significance and ecological importance, stand as emblematic symbols of Srinagar’s natural heritage. However, the lamentable decline of these lakes due to urbanization, pollution, and neglect demands urgent attention and concerted efforts for their restoration and preservation.

The Glorious Past:

Once pristine bodies of water, Khushalsar and Gilsar lakes were not only admired for their aesthetic charm but also revered for their cultural and functional significance. They served as vital water sources for the local populace, supported diverse ecosystems, and were integral to the region’s cultural identity.

Present Dilapidated Condition:

Today, these lakes languish in a state of deterioration, marred by encroachments and pollution etc. Urban expansion has encroached upon their shores, pollution from untreated sewage has degraded water quality, and neglect has exacerbated their decline.

Reasons for Deterioration:

Several factors, including rapid population growth, lack of planning, inadequate waste management, climate change, and insufficient conservation efforts, have contributed to the degradation of Khushalsar and Gilsar lakes.

Interconnected Lakes and Water Quality Regulation:

The interconnectedness of Khushalsar and Gilsar lakes with Dal and Nigeen lakes underscores the importance of their restoration. This interconnected system once acted as a natural filtration and purification mechanism, supporting biodiversity and regulating water quality.

Current Impact on Dal and Nigeen Lakes:

The deterioration of Khushalsar and Gilsar lakes has had cascading effects on Dal and Nigeen lakes, exacerbating water quality issues and biodiversity loss.

Conservation by NLCO - Mission Ehsaas:

Under Mission Ehsaas, NLCO has embarked on commendable endeavor to rehabilitate Khushalsar Lake and Gilsar Lake, rallying community support and securing administrative cooperation. The mission has prioritized the cleansing of these twin urban lakes, with the goal of revitalizing traditional navigation paths and improving water circulation. This initiative has garnered extensive community involvement, particularly from stakeholders in the administration, notably the Divisional Administration, which guided the mission through various obstacles. The SMC also played a crucial role by assisting in the removal and disposal of thousands of truckloads of debris from the lakes. Friends and volunteers have additionally provided steadfast support. Furthermore, the former Principal Secretary HU&DD actively engaged in the mission by making multiple site visits to oversee the cleaning program. Lastly, the former Chief Secretary showed attentive consideration to our appeals and directed LC&MA to commence the cleansing/dredging process for these twin lakes. This proactive step is viewed as essential for ensuring a sustained cleansing endeavor.

Key Aspects of Mission Ehsaas:

Mission Ehsaas emphasises ecological restoration, de-silting, waste management, community engagement, policy advocacy, and public awareness campaigns.

Accolades:

NLCO’s efforts under Mission Ehsaas note only received widespread recognition, underscoring the power of community-led conservation initiatives, but has also garnered recognition from esteemed authorities, including the Honorable Prime Minister in his “Mann Ki Baat’’ Programme and the Honourable Lieutenant Governor in his public speech “Away ki Awaz”.

Way Forward:

Having laid the groundwork, the NLCO and stakeholders have commenced the mission, and it is now incumbent upon the administration to take the lead. Proposed actions involve assigning responsibility for the lakes to competent authorities, establishing clear boundaries, eliminating encroachments, integrating drainage systems with sewage treatment plants, rejuvenating concealed springs, building jetties to promote tourism, creating eco-friendly cycling paths, and restoring traditional navigation routes. These measures should be promptly executed for enduring results.

Conclusion:

Restoring Khushalsar and Gilsar lakes requires collective determination, collaboration, and strategic action. By addressing outlined challenges and adopting proposed measures, we can ensure the sustained preservation and conservation of these iconic lakes for future generations.

We anticipate that the current LG administration will address this issue promptly.

Manzoor Wangnoo, Chairman Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO)