Srinagar, Jul 11 (KNS): The resumption of dredging operations at the iconic twin lakes of Gilsar and Khushalsar has infused fresh hope among environmentalists and local communities, even as a prominent conservation body stressed that sustained Project Management Coordination (PMC) remains the cornerstone for achieving durable ecological restoration.
The Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO) on Saturday hailed the J&K Lake Conservation & Management Authority (JKLCMA) for restarting the restoration drive, terming it a "significant step" towards safeguarding Kashmir's fragile urban wetland ecosystem.
"The return of the dredging machine after a brief pause is heartening. However, restoration cannot be reduced to mere dredging and de-weeding alone," NLCO Chairman Manzoor Wangnoo said in a statement issued here.
He asserted that a scientific, integrated approach is imperative, which includes demarcation of lake boundaries, restoration of navigation channels, diversion of wastewater into sewer networks, setting up of mini Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) wherever required, revival of defunct STPs, catchment area treatment, biodiversity conservation, and regular water quality monitoring.
"Above all, Project Management Coordination among all stakeholder departments is the key to lasting success. Scientific planning, seamless coordination, and continuous monitoring alone can translate today's efforts into permanent ecological gains," Wangnoo added.
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The NLCO complimented JKLCMA Vice Chairman Khurshid Ahmad Shah, JKAS, for his "proactive, field-oriented leadership" and "unwavering commitment" to accelerating the restoration process. It also expressed gratitude to Commissioner Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department, Mandeep Kaur, IAS, for her vision and sustained support in steering the mission forward.
Describing Gilsar and Khushalsar as the "ecological lifelines of Kashmir," Wangnoo said the wetlands nurture tourism, sustain agriculture, recharge groundwater, support biodiversity, and strengthen climate resilience.
"Their revival is, in many ways, the revival of Kashmir itself," he remarked, adding that 'Mission Ehsaas' has always believed that lasting conservation is achieved through science, coordination, and community participation.
Pertinently, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had earlier this year directed authorities to intensify conservation measures for the lakes and stressed that restoration requires sustained institutional coordination and scientific planning.
The twin lakes, once famed for their pristine beauty and recreational significance, have suffered severe degradation over the decades due to encroachment, pollution, and siltation. Their restoration is seen as a test case for urban wetland conservation in the Valley.(KNS).