In a landmark decision, the Jammu & Kashmir government has officially transferred the management of Gilsar and Khushalsar lakes to the J&K Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) for dedicated conservation and restoration.
This long-awaited step fulfills a major public demand and marks a crucial turning point in the revival of these historically and ecologically significant water bodies.
For years, Gilsar and Khushalsar lakes have suffered from neglect, encroachments, and pollution. With this decision, LCMA will now oversee their scientific restoration, management, and protection, ensuring their revival as vital environmental assets for the region.
Under Mission Ehsaas, NLCO has undertaken a commendable initiative to rehabilitate Khushalsar and Gilsar lakes, rallying community support and securing administrative cooperation. The mission has prioritized the cleansing of these twin urban lakes, with the goal of revitalizing traditional navigation paths and improving water circulation.
“We have been persuading the government to hand over the restoration of Gilsar and Khushalsar to LCMA,” said NLCO Chairman Manzoor Wangnoo.
“On our invitation, then-Principal Secretary to the Government, Housing & Urban Development Department, Dheeraj Gupta, visited Gilsar and Khushalsar.
He assured us that the twin lakes would be handed over to LCMA for better management and sustained conservation.”
Expressing gratitude, environmental activists and concerned citizens have lauded this move as a significant policy intervention. Special acknowledgment is extended to Commissioner Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department, Mandeep Kaur (IAS), for her unwavering commitment, proactive approach, and dedication in making this milestone a reality.
“We deeply appreciate the collective efforts of all stakeholders, administration officials, and conservationists who have stood by this cause. This decision reaffirms the commitment to restoring and protecting Kashmir’s fragile water ecosystems,” said Wangnoo.
This development marks a major victory for environmental conservation in Kashmir, setting a positive precedent for the rejuvenation of other neglected water bodies. However, much work remains, and continued community participation and administrative focus will be essential to restoring these lakes to their former glory.(KNS)
