A story of loss |
The stunningly beautiful Kashmir Valley has earned recognition for its scenic charm not only within the country but globally as well. Any mention about Kashmir enthralls the people especially the nature lovers across the globe. They find a connect with Kashmir, and fondly speak about the warmth of the people, distinct hospitality besides its mesmerising beauty. The Kashmiris were not surprised when their countrymen spoke about the idyllic and serene environment during travel to different parts of the country , and believed Kashmiris to be lucky people to have been living in Kashmir. This was the position before 1990.
However, during the decade of 90’s and, thereafter, lives were lost, businesses crumbled and assets got consumed. However, what we lost, and lost irretrievably were our natural resources. The forests were ruthlessly looted in broad daylight; 6 lac kanals of forest area is under encroachment. The same fate befell our waterbodies, open public spaces which were filled up and encroached upon. The iconic internationally recognised Ramsar Sites Wular Lake, Hokersar, Hygham and Shallabugh have not been spared. Rivers, Nallahs, streams and karewas were brutally vandalised to fill the........