Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Apr 22: Lawmakers today called for a “zero-tolerance” approach to encroachments and ecological degradation at the Haigam Wetland Reserve after a joint on-site inspection flagged deteriorating conditions, habitat loss and weak conservation enforcement at the Ramsar-listed site.
The inspection, led by the Environmental Policy Group (EPG) along with MLAs Irfan Hafiz Lone and Riyaz Ahmad Bedar, involved senior officials from wildlife, revenue and irrigation departments and covered multiple vulnerable stretches including Loolipora, Gole Taing, Goja Bugh, Haari Taar and Haigam Rakh.
Haigam, an associated wetland of Wular Lake on the Central Asian Flyway, has been witnessing mounting pressure from encroachments, siltation, weed infestation and unregulated waste disposal, officials and activists said during the visit.
Officials noted that weakening embankments, disrupted water management and shrinking habitat for migratory and resident birds were among the key concerns requiring urgent intervention.
The team also reviewed proposals for restoration of the erstwhile Boog Jheel and development of an eco-tourism park on reclaimed land at Ningli.
During a review meeting, the EPG presented a detailed assessment of the wetland’s ecological status, citing anthropogenic pressures and gaps in implementation of the Integrated Conservation and Management Action Plan.
Speaking on the occasion, Lone said there would be “no compromise” on conservation of the wetland, asserting that any activity harming its ecological integrity would not be allowed.
He, however, stressed the need to balance conservation efforts with livelihood concerns of local communities dependent on the wetland.
He directed officials to consult stakeholders before finalising conservation plans and assured that the issue would be taken up with both the J&K administration and the Centre.
Bedar echoed the stance, urging local residents to cooperate with authorities for resolution of long-pending issues and emphasising sustainable livelihood opportunities linked to the wetland.
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