Jammu, Mar 11 : The Government has reiterated its commitment to the restoration and conservation of the iconic Wular Lake, one of Asia’s largest freshwater bodies and a designated wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.
Responding to a question raised by legislator Mr. Nizam-ud-Din Bhat, the Government stated that comprehensive measures are underway under the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA), which was established in 2012 to oversee the lake’s revival and sustainable management.
Since its inception, WUCMA has been implementing a Comprehensive Management Action Plan (CMAP) focused on restoring the lake’s ecological health while supporting the socio-economic needs of surrounding communities.
Survey and demarcation of the wetland boundaries, Restoration of water regimes to improve ecological services, Catchment area treatment and conservation, Preservation of biodiversity.
Sustainable resource use and livelihood enhancement Institutional strengthening for effective lake governance
Addressing concerns regarding the impact of the lake’s deterioration on the local fishing community, the Government refuted reports of negative consequences. Instead, it noted that Wular Lake contributes nearly 60% to Kashmir’s total fish production, sustaining the livelihoods of over 5,200 registered fishermen.
Moreover, fish production from the lake has consistently increased over the last three years: 2021–22: Local Carp – 779.76 MT; Total – 2,161.92 MT, 2022–23: Local Carp – 818.25 MT; Total – 3,008.14 MT, 2023–24: Local Carp – 1,215.25 MT; Total – 3,378.61 MT.
The Government assured that its conservation efforts will continue in full force, aiming not only to protect the lake’s fragile ecosystem but also to secure the livelihoods of those dependent on it.
