Encroachment & siltation threaten Hokersar Wetland

Srinagar, Nov 28: As winter approaches, Kashmir’s wetlands, particularly the Hokersar Wetland Reserve, are once again welcoming flocks of migratory birds that travel thousands of miles from regions like Siberia, China, Russia, and parts of Europe.
Known as the “Queen of Wetlands,” Hokersar attracts over half a million birds annually, thanks to its unique landscape and Ramsar status, which designates it as a wetland of international importance. However, rapid encroachment and environmental neglect are putting this vital sanctuary for migratory birds at serious risk.
The wetland now spans around 1,300 hectares, a significant reduction from its original size of 1,875 hectares in 1969. Over the past two decades, heavy siltation, encroachment, and unsustainable flood control practices have worsened its condition, turning once-thriving water channels into dry, muddy stretches.
A 2023 report from the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) revealed that up to 44.4% of lakes and wetlands around Srinagar have been lost in recent decades due to human interference and poor land-use management. This loss threatens not only the habitat of migratory birds but also the local microclimate, making the region more susceptible to flooding.
For the communities around Hokersar, the wetland holds both ecological and economic importance. Despite its declining condition, nearby neighborhoods continue to rely on the wetland for resources like fish, chestnuts, and fodder. In recent years, the wetland has also gained popularity among young Kashmiris for birdwatching, with youth documenting migratory species and publishing findings in scientific journals.
Kashmir University’s Department of Earth Sciences has raised concerns about the rapid deterioration of Hokersar. Dr. Shahid-ul-Islam, a professor in the department, said, “The wetland’s decline is rooted in societal greed and insufficient government action. This waterbody is essential for Kashmir’s biodiversity, and we need robust conservation efforts to restore it.” His team has documented that siltation and encroachment are the primary causes of degradation.
Efforts to restore Hokersar are underway, though progress has been slow. The J&K Wildlife Department has implemented a flood management project, including the installation of two water gates at the wetland. The Wildlife Warden for Wetlands stated that the gates will soon be operational, helping to regulate water levels and facilitate bird migration. He also highlighted ongoing digitization efforts and a five-year restoration plan, which includes dredging silt and clearing weeds. “We’re working toward creating a sustainable habitat with ecotourism opportunities to support local youth,” he explained.
However, conservationists and local groups remain skeptical. The Environmental Policy Group (EPG), an advocacy organization, has accused the wildlife department of inaction, warning that without proper water levels, wetlands cannot support the migratory bird population, which would have a ripple effect on the local ecosystem. For Hokersar’s revival, all parties agree that comprehensive planning and sustained effort are essential to preserving this vital natural habitat for the future.