Srinagar, July 22 (KNS): Brari Nambal once known for its sparking waters and considered crucial for the hydrology of Dal lake is facing delays in its comprehensive conservation which is affecting its eco system.
Although, after a gap of many years in 2020, upliftment of its aesthetics and much needed dredging was started to increase lagoon’s carrying capacity but the same was not a sustained procedure.
In a statement, issued to Kashmir News Service (KNS), Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation president Manzoor Ahmad Wangnoo said that despite being located in the heart of Srinagar city with a huge tourism potential, the lagoon has become a cesspool in the last 3 decades due to the negligence and rampant encroachment.
He said that during last few years, the whole periphery of the lagoon, the inner side of STP road which is Govt land, stands encroached. It is really appalling that all the waste emanating from the encroached structures gets drained into the lagoon thus further deteriorating its condition.
“There is a dire need to restore this waterbody in oder to maintain the hydrology and save its eco system, the Brari Nambal needs immediate conservation measures like dredging, cleansing and solid waste connection of drains to STP removal of encroachments,” he said.
He added that there are around 400-500 Kanals of proprietary land in the lagoon and the acquisition of the same could lead in making this lagoon as one of the best urban water resource and tourist destination as well.
“The outlet which connects the lagoon to river Jehlum needs to be made fully functional which will help in improving water quality.”
He also said that the restoration should be a prime focus rather than the beautification which can be done once the water body & its Eco system is retrieved.
“The lagoon, if restored ,can become a big tourist attraction as a large number of hotels and guest houses having come up in adjoining areas in recent years can ease the burden on the boulevard area.”
He said that moreover, a massive public awareness campaign must be initiated to sensitise people living around the waterbody to take an active participation in its conservation on the pattern of Mission Ehsaas campaign.
“Brari Nambal has been neglected in the past, however, a ray of hope has emerged with the present administration & we fervently believe that the administration under smart city project will ensure the conservation measures are not left half way,” he said. (KNS)