Srinagar, Sep 16, KNT: The landfilling carried out along a portion of the Brari Nambal lagoon in Srinagar has only been partially removed despite the intervention of the J&K Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA), with a fresh visit to the site showing vehicles still parked on the remaining filled portion of the waterbody.

The issue had come to light after landfilling was noticed along the lagoon, following which the LCMA used machinery to remove the filled material from the affected area.

However, still a substantial portion of the filled area remains, while several vehicles continue to be parked on the reclaimed portion.

The development raises a fresh question over whether the removal operation has been completed, or whether the remaining filled material is also to be removed and the affected portion restored to its earlier water-holding condition.

The issue assumes significance as the LCMA has been undertaking restoration and conservation works at Brari Nambal. During inspections in July and August, senior officials stressed regular monitoring, removal of waste and debris and measures for the long-term protection of the waterbody.

The LCMA’s own submissions before the National Green Tribunal have also referred to planned dredging of Brari Nambal, including removal of land mass and radhs from within the lagoon using departmental machinery.

The latest ground situation, however, indicates that the recently filled portion has not yet been fully restored.

The continued parking of vehicles on the remaining filled area also raises questions over whether the portion is being treated as restored waterbody land or continues to be used for an activity that should not take place on the lagoon.

The Environmental Policy Group had separately approached the LCMA this week seeking information on the alleged landfilling, identification of those responsible and complete removal of the filled material.

The central questions now are whether the remaining landfilling will be completely removed, who carried out the original filling, whether any permission was obtained and what action has been taken against those responsible if the activity was unauthorized. [KNT]

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