Srinagar, Sep 15 (KNS): In line with a countrywide “Swachhata Hi Sewa” Abiyan commencing from 15th September, 2017, the J&K LAWDA has dovetailed its de-weeding operation for removal of unwanted macrophytes from waters of Dal–Nigeen Lake.
A comprehensive swachhata schedule has been prepared by the Authority to disseminate the information regarding cleanliness in and around the water bodies with emphasis on IEC, door to door campaign and special drives for initiating coordinated efforts to achieve total sanitation.
The mega event organized at Oberoi Ghat was inaugurated by Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Asiya Naqash whereas Chief Secretary, B. B. Vyas was the Guest of Honour on the occasion. The event was also attended by Commissioner/Secretary Housing and Urban Development Department and Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar. The theme of the campaign is to reinforce the concept of “sanitation as everybody’s concern” and intensify the collective social actions for Swachhata.
The LDA has invited an Expression of Interest requesting the interested labours to approach the Authority directly and pledge to work with a missionary zeal for attaining total clearance of the Dal waters from unwanted macrophytes while earning their livelihood. In recent years a rapid increase has been noticed in presence of Azolacrestata, salvinicia and other submerged and floating weeds in Dal Lake.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelThe drive is expected to enhance the aesthetics of the Dal-Nigeen waters while maintaining its ecosystem. The LDA has arranged 200-250 labours for this special de-weeding drive which shall be carried out on sustained basis.
The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development while appreciating the efforts of the Authority, emphasised that a special drive shall also be launched in the back waters as well as inner areas of Dal lake, so that the remote pockets of Dal dwellers are also brought under the ambit of ‘SWACHHATA HI SEWA’ operation. She hoped that such drives will help in restoring the pristine glory of the lake which is the top most priority of the Government.
While interacting with the labours, the Chief Secretary assured to look into the demands of the labours which include enhancement of daily wages, transfer of the wages through DBT mode and a decision on defining of working hours. He asked the labours to nominate five representatives for holding consultation with VC, LDA, so that appropriate decisions are taken in the matter.
The Vice Chairman, LDA reassured the authorities that henceforth all activities for conservation and management of Dal-Nigeen Lake shall be organized in a mission mode with active involvement of stakeholders including the Dal dwellers, working labours, environmental activists and members of civil society and social groups. (KNS)