Srinagar Dec 15 (KNS): In a positive development for Kashmir’s urban environment, the Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO) has successfully concluded Phase 6 of Mission Ehsaas, marking a major step forward in the revival of the long-neglected Gilsar and Khushalsar lakes.

Launched on World Environment Day 2024 by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor and later appreciated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister in Mann Ki Baat, Mission Ehsaas has emerged as a strong symbol of community-led conservation. After nearly three decades of neglect, the twin lakes are now showing visible signs of recovery, thanks to sustained cleaning efforts and growing administrative support.

NLCO said the formal handover of Gilsar and Khushalsar to the Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) was a turning point in the restoration journey. The organisation expressed gratitude to the administration for taking this long-pending decision, which paved the way for structured and institutional conservation. NLCO also acknowledged MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq, for facilitating the construction of two jetties along the lake shores, aimed at improving aesthetics and reconnecting local communities with the lakes.

The organisation also appreciated the Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department (H&UDD) for her personal intervention and continued support in ensuring that lake-cleaning operations by LCMA remain active and uninterrupted.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

With the completion of Phase 6, NLCO stated that it has fulfilled its assigned role under Mission Ehsaas. The organisation underlined that the responsibility now lies with LCMA to take the restoration process forward in a scientific, systematic, and result-oriented manner.

NLCO expressed hope that the momentum will continue, with immediate focus on regular removal of dredged muck, restoration of inlets and outlets, deployment of adequate machinery, and strict monitoring to prevent encroachments and dumping. In the long run, the organisation stressed the need for scientific dredging, full diversion of sewage to STPs, creation of a dedicated LCMA division for the lakes, ecological restoration, and community-friendly initiatives such as walkways and eco-sensitive access points.

Chairman NLCO, Manzoor Wangnoo, said Mission Ehsaas has proved that community persistence combined with administrative support can revive even the most neglected water bodies. He added that the real success will depend on sustained and transparent conservation so that Gilsar and Khushalsar continue to serve as flood buffers, ecological assets, and future tourism lifelines for Srinagar.

NLCO reaffirmed its commitment to remain engaged as a responsible stakeholder and expressed confidence that the progress achieved so far will be strengthened further to ensure the long-term protection and revival of these twin urban lakes.(KNS)