Wetlands vanishing in J&K, EPG warns of ecological crisis

Srinagar, Apr 11: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has raised serious concerns over the rapid shrinking and disappearance of water bodies across Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a grave ecological crisis that demands urgent intervention.

Citing a recent report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, EPG Convenor Faiz Bakshi said the findings validate long-standing concerns raised by the group. However, he cautioned that the actual extent of loss could be far greater than officially documented.

The group highlighted that despite ongoing litigation concerning the conservation of 1,230 wetlands identified by the Department of Environment, Ecology and Remote Sensing, the condition of lakes and wetlands continues to deteriorate, posing serious environmental risks, particularly in the context of climate change and flood vulnerability.

Bakshi pointed to the degradation of Narrakara Nambal, alleging that it is being converted into a residential and commercial area in violation of environmental norms and court orders. He termed it a glaring example of administrative inaction.

The EPG also flagged the declining condition of major wetlands such as Haigham, Shallabugh, and Hokersar—ecologically significant sites protected under the Ramsar Convention. The group warned that continued neglect could place India in violation of international obligations.

Mirgund wetland, once a thriving ecosystem, has largely turned into grassland over the past few years due to poor maintenance and lack of water inflow. The group said such degradation is affecting thousands of people dependent on these ecosystems for livelihood.

Encroachment and unregulated land-use changes remain key drivers of wetland loss, with many areas converted into paddy fields, orchards, and commercial spaces. Dal Lake was cited as another example, where illegal constructions, road expansion, and sewage discharge continue to degrade the ecosystem.

Terming the CAG report a “wake-up call,” the EPG stressed the need for time-bound investigations and accountability. It also questioned the status of compliance with the Supreme Court’s directive mandating ground verification and demarcation of wetlands.

The group expressed concern over what it described as an over-reliance on publicity campaigns instead of concrete action on the ground. It said that showcasing migratory bird presence cannot substitute for real conservation efforts.

Highlighting the scale of the crisis, EPG noted that around 315 lakes—nearly 45 percent—have completely disappeared, leading to biodiversity loss, disrupted hydrological cycles, and increased climate vulnerability.

The group has urged the government to take immediate and time-bound measures, strengthen institutional accountability, and improve interdepartmental coordination to protect and restore the region’s fragile wetland ecosystems.