Deteriorating condition of Anchar lake in Srinagar has raised concern over failure of authorities to ensure conservation of one of the vital water bodies of Jammu and Kashmir summer capital. Till a few decades ago, Anchar lake possessed crystal clear waters and harbored rich aquatic species. The lake received a major lease of its waters from Dal lake through Nallah Amir Khan via Gilsar and Khushalsar lakes. A network of channels from Nallah Sindh enters the lake on its western shore forming a delta. The lake is also fed by springs within the basin and along the periphery and finally merges with Jhelum at Sangam.

However, in absence of conservation measures, the lake has been pushed to the verge of extinction. Unabated flow of drains has increased its pollution levels. Besides extensive siltation coupled with land filing and encroachments, have severely affected its flora and fauna. From 19.54 sq.km a century ago, the lake has been reduced to 6 sq.km, out of which 3.6 sq.km is marsh. The catchment area of Anchar is approximately 66 sq.km comprising long stretches of elevated land on the northwest, which is used for raising different types of vegetation including agricultural fields.Anchar is also a semi-urban wetland that forms part of habitat for native and migratory birds. Large chunks of peripheral areas, especially on its eastern banks have been encroached upon by land mafia by filling it and conversion into agricultural fields.

In July this........

© Greater Kashmir