Expedite dredging in Wular: Guv to officials

Tribune News Service

Jammu, January 16

Governor Satya Pal Malik reviewed key achievements regarding the conservation and restoration of the Wular Lake by the Wular Conservation and Management Authority, in a meeting held at Raj Bhawan on Wednesday.

The Governor observed that the water body, which was one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, was a lifeline of Kashmir and critical for the conservation of biodiversity. He advised Gillani, CEO of the authority, to expedite the dredging of the critically silted area for enhancing the water-holding capacity of the lake, and make all possible efforts to promote eco-tourism and generate livelihood opportunities from the lake as per its comprehensive management action plan.

The Governor directed time-bound action for water management of the lake and its associated wetlands as it protects the Kashmir valley from floods as well as maintains the flow of water to support agriculture and hydropower generation.

The Governor advised efficient management of soil erosion, aquatic vegetation and control of willow plantation within the lake area.