Take measures to restore wetlands: Experts

Srinagar, Nov 4: As the migratory birds have started arriving in Kashmir, the wetlands in the Valley have failed to provide a suitable and feasible environment and ambience for their habitat.

However, due to the lack of adequate measures by the concerned departments, these winged guests will find their stay to be difficult.

A preferred destination for lakhs of migratory birds, Shallabugh Wetland in Ganderbal district has lost its sheen and is craving for preservation.

Every year in the past thousands of migratory birds from various European and western countries would come to the Valley to stay in various wetlands here.

The migratory birds would be seen staying in the famous wetlands of Kashmir, including Hokersar, Wullar Lake, Haigam, and Shalbugh.

However, this year the negligible migratory birds are seen in the famous Shalbugh Wetland in Ganderbal district which otherwise hosts thousands of avian guests every year.

The concerned Wetlands Department has failed to provide a feasible ambience to these avian guests.

No measures have been taken before the arrival of the migratory birds.

Environmental experts said that to ensure that migratory birds arrive here and stay in this wetland, the concerned department had to build embankments to ensure the water level remains adequately maintained.

They said the department should also conduct supervision and maintenance exercises, however, no such steps and measures have been taken.

Environmental Policy Group (EPG) Convener Faiz Bakshi expressed disappointment over the deteriorating condition of Kashmir’s wetlands.

“We visited some wetlands and it was disappointing to see their pathetic conditions,” he said. “Due to the unfavourable condition of these wetlands, the migratory birds are also seen staying away from these wetlands.”

Bakshi said that the concerned department should immediately take measures for the restoration of these wetlands and provide a feasible environment for the migratory birds.

Talking to Greater Kashmir Wildlife Warden Wetlands Altaf Ahmad said that they were on it and within a few days sufficient water level would be maintained.

“Other measures are also being taken in the wetland for the migratory birds,” he said.

Ahmad said that the field staff was posted in the wetlands to keep a watch.