Workshop on integrated mgmt of Wular Lake held

Srinagar, August 8

Wular Lake is a societal asset and we all have a responsibility towards its protection, preservation and conservation, said Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary, Forest, Ecology and Environment, Jammu and Kashmir.

Gupta inaugurated a multi-stakeholder’s workshop for the management of Wular Lake at Banquet Hall here.

The workshop aims to facilitate discussions on ongoing management actions, their effectiveness and jointly identify future priorities and strategies for integrated management of Wular Lake, an official spokesperson said.

In his address, ACS said we all should feel our responsibility towards the nation and the people and prove true saviours of the lake.

Gupta said the government has embarked on a transformative journey to restore and revitalise the lake with special focus on the eco-tourism and livelihood of the local communities. There is need for a thorough analysis of past efforts and emphasised for improved inter-departmental collaboration to ensure cohesive and coordinated efforts across various governmental and non-governmental organisations, he added.

The top officer also said tourism in Kashmir has experienced a significant surge over the past four years, leading to an increased interest in the region’s natural and cultural attractions.

Dheeraj Gupta further said that the workshop will produce actionable points for the management and conservation of Wular that will provide a clear and comprehensive roadmap, outlining specific timelines with milestones and measurable indicators.

Chief Executive Director Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA), T Rabi Kumar, said around 5 sq km of the critically-silted area of the lake has been dredged out, which has significantly enhanced water flow and improved the overall water regime. — OC