Posted on March 5, 2025
SRINAGAR: Authorities have undertaken a significant dredging and cleaning operation to widen navigation and outflow channels, ensuring improved water circulation and pollution control to restore and conserve Dal Lake. The large-scale initiative, details of which were placed before the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, includes multiple dredging projects spanning different sections of the lake.
The extensive works cover dredging and widening of several navigation channels within Dal Lake, including a 700-metre stretch from House Boat New Baktoo to Anchari Mohalla, a 650-metre channel from Dole Demb to Kachri Mohalla, and a 1,200-metre link between Dole Demb channel and Kachri Mohalla. Additional dredging and widening efforts are focused on a 930-metre stretch from House Boat Shamshad to the vegetable market, a 900-metre channel from the vegetable market to Kani Kach (Nishat Bund), and a 500-metre link behind Hotel Leeward. Other significant projects include the deepening and widening of outflow channels from Jaal Mohalla to Laam Mohalla, Lone Mohalla to Fogi Lanker Junction, and Nowpora Bridge to Dar Mohalla.
Authorities are also undertaking dredging in key outflow channels such as those in Miskeen Bagh, Tang Bagh, Dalkawpora, Baba Demb, and several others to prevent stagnation and enhance the natural flushing of the lake. These efforts are crucial in maintaining water quality and ensuring the health of the lake’s ecosystem.
Water Quality and Pollution Control Measures
The Jammu and Kashmir Lake Conservation and Management Authority (JKLCMA) and the J&K Pollution Control Committee are continuously monitoring Dal Lake’s water quality. The lake currently falls under Category B, as per pollution classification standards, necessitating strict conservation measures. Presently, 36.37 million litres per day (MLD) of wastewater is treated through Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), with additional projects in the pipeline to bridge treatment gaps and curb pollution levels.
Regular testing of water quality is conducted by JKLCMA’s Research & Monitoring Division, assessing physico-chemical and biological parameters. Recent analysis from January 25, 2025, on dredged sites within navigation channels confirms the ongoing effort to maintain and enhance water quality.
Solid and Wet Waste Management, De-Weeding Initiatives
The authorities have also outlined a comprehensive plan for solid and wet waste management, including regular de-weeding. These conservation activities are scheduled annually to ensure the lake remains free of excessive aquatic growth and floating waste. Garbage collected from channels and open water surfaces is transported to shorelines and disposed of through the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC). De-weeding operations are carried out using both mechanical and manual methods, following scientific recommendations.
With dredging, de-weeding, and waste management forming integral parts of the conservation strategy, authorities are focused on restoring Dal Lake’s ecological balance. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining these efforts, ensuring long-term preservation of the iconic water body.
