Illegal constructions and encroachments around Dal Lake continue to threaten its ecological balance, despite ongoing regulations and conservation initiatives. Unauthorized developments remain widespread in areas such as Harwan, Wangund Teilbal, Ishber, Baba Demb, Rainawari, Saidakadal, and Dalgate.
Over the years, a range of illegal structures—from small shops and residences to large-scale commercial buildings—have emerged both inside and along the banks of Dal Lake. Most of these developments have been built without proper permits, leading to environmental degradation and significant alterations to the lake’s delicate ecosystem. In many instances, residents have bypassed regulations by transporting construction materials into the lake’s interior, constructing in areas lacking road connectivity.
Dal Lake, which once spanned 75 square kilometers in 1200 AD, shrank to 25 square kilometers by the 1980s and now covers just over 20.3 square kilometers. This alarming reduction underscores the devastating impact of encroachments and illegal developments. Experts point to urbanization, encroachment, and the expansion of floating gardens as major contributors to the lake’s shrinking size.
Reports from the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) and the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) highlight rapid urbanization and encroachments as key factors in the lake’s degradation. The disappearance of wetlands, disruption of natural drainage patterns, and unplanned urban development have heightened environmental risks, making the region more vulnerable to flooding and other natural disasters. The CSE report also reveals that more than 50% of Srinagar’s lakes and wetlands have been encroached upon over the past century, largely for construction purposes.
In 2014, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court imposed a ban on the construction of illegal structures around Dal Lake. The court also established a committee to prepare a detailed report on the lake’s situation, with recommendations for its conservation. Despite these efforts, illegal constructions continue to thrive, with minimal impact on curbing encroachments.
The government launched a Rs 273-crore conservation plan, aimed at dredging the lake, managing its catchment areas, and developing a sewerage network. However, concerns have been raised about the plan’s lack of effective execution and oversight, leaving many questioning its long-term viability.
Additionally, the relocation of thousands of residents from around Dal Lake has been part of the government’s effort to combat encroachments. Over 10,000 people have been moved to areas such as Boatmen Colony and Rakh-e-Arth Colony in Bemina, and Fishermen Colony in Habbak Shanpora. However, the relocation plan has faced criticism, with many residents claiming that these new areas do not provide sufficient support for their livelihoods.
“We are open to relocation, but the government’s policy is ineffective. They move us to areas that neither support our livelihoods nor provide basic facilities,” said Inam, a Dal dweller.
Manzoor Pakhtoon, President of the Houseboat Owners Association (HBOA), voiced similar concerns. “Many dwellers are ready to relocate, but the government’s policy lacks efficiency. If the government is relocating them, it must ensure they are provided with assets equivalent to what they previously owned,” he said. He also emphasized that dwellers should not sublet their premises, as it undermines the efforts to clear Dal Lake.
Activists are calling for urgent action. Tariq Ahmad Patloo, a social activist leading a campaign to save Dal Lake, warned, “If we don’t act now, we may lose Dal Lake forever. Illegal constructions and ineffective policies are pushing the lake to the brink.”
While government conservation efforts are a step in the right direction, experts believe that these measures will only succeed if illegal constructions are controlled, and a comprehensive, long-term plan is implemented to restore the lake’s ecosystem. The relocation process must be carefully managed, ensuring adequate compensation and support to protect residents’ livelihoods.
“If the government wants to relocate us, they should ensure we are settled in places that allow us to live with dignity,” said Shabir, a Dal dweller.
Repeated attempts to contact Mohammad Younis Malik, Vice-Chairman of the Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA), for the comment on the issue went unanswered.
