NLCO seeks probe into alleged road work inside Dal Lake near Miskeen Bagh

Conservation body urges authorities to verify reports, fix responsibility if lake area has been filled

SRINAGAR, July 27: The Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation (NLCO) on Monday expressed concern over reported road-related work near Miskeen Bagh, alleging that a portion of Dal Lake’s waterbody may have been filled during the activity.

In a statement, the organisation said the work, reportedly being carried out by the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), raises questions about oversight and coordination, particularly as the J&K Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) is responsible for the protection and conservation of Dal Lake.

NLCO called on the concerned authorities to immediately inspect the site and ascertain whether any part of the lake or its associated waterbody has been filled, altered or encroached upon for road construction or macadamisation.

The organisation said that while infrastructure development and public convenience are important, such projects should not come at the expense of a protected and ecologically sensitive waterbody.

It urged the authorities to place the facts on record and, if any encroachment or filling of the lake is found, fix responsibility and initiate corrective measures without delay. It also suggested that, if warranted, the matter be referred to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) for appropriate intervention.

Describing Dal Lake as the ecological, cultural and tourism identity of Srinagar and Kashmir, NLCO said its protection must remain above departmental lapses, unchecked development and political considerations.

The organisation reiterated that it supports genuine development but would continue to raise concerns whenever Jammu & Kashmir’s waterbodies and fragile ecosystems face threats. It appealed for immediate protection of the lake and urged authorities to prevent any further damage pending verification of the reported work.