A gradual disappearance |
Dal Lake is not merely a water body; it is the soul of Srinagar, the lifeline of Kashmir's tourism, and an irreplaceable ecological asset. For centuries, it has symbolized the Valley's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Today, however, this priceless treasure is facing one of the gravest threats in its history—not from nature but from human greed and neglect.
The most disturbing and visible transformation is taking place along the western side of Dal Lake stretching from Dalgate to Hazratbal. Anyone who has witnessed this side of the lake over the years can clearly see that vast stretches of open water have disappeared. Areas that were once part of the lake have gradually been converted into land through illegal filling, unauthorized constructions and unchecked encroachments. What was once a continuous expanse of water having at many places been replaced by settlements, roads, commercial establishments and landmass.
This silent disappearance of the lake is perhaps the greatest environmental tragedy unfolding before our eyes.The western periphery of Dal Lake has become increasingly vulnerable because of immense human greed particularly the people living on this side of the lake. The process is often gradual—small quantities of earth, construction debris or waste are dumped repeatedly until........