DC Srinagar reviews progress in restoration of historical water bodies

Srinagar: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Mohammed Aijaz Asad Wednesday chaired a meeting to review the progress on restoration of historical water bodies in Srinagar including Nigeen, Khushaal sar, Gil sar and Anchar lakes besides water bodies of Baba demb and Nalah-e-Amir Khan.
On the occasion, the DC was informed about the pace of work being carried out for demarcation of water bodies and identification of illegal constructions, besides measures taken for restoring and cleaning of all water bodies in the district.
The Executive Engineer Irrigation & Flood Control apprised the chair that work is going on for the restoration of the water bodies in Srinagar. He put in demand for additional funds to achieve the target.
He further informed that an amount of Rs 15 lakh have been provided by Srinagar Smart City for restoration of Gil Sar water body so far. He said more funds are required to complete the work and also demanded for providing more water masters to carry on the restoration works.
With regard to demarcation of water bodies, the DC directed the concerned Tehsildars to expedite demarcation process of all water bodies immediately . He also asked them to ensure identification of encroachments within these water bodies so that major anti enchrochment drive is launched to remove all illegal constructions along water bodies in Srinagar.
The DC enjoined upon the officers to take all necessary measures for cleaning the accumulated waste to make all water bodies navigable to pave way for starting in land water transport along these bodies.
He said one of the purposes of the restoration measures is to restore original water navigation circuit in Srinagar district.
The DC also said that for restoring glory of water bodies in Srinagar, Community participation is must and local communities who are actual guardians have a vital role in identification of encroachments and in conservation of these historical water bodies.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Khurshid Ahmad, Chief Planning Officer, Mohammed Yaseen Lone, SDM East, Owais Mushtaq, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Rayees Ahmad Bhat and concerned Tehsildars, besides officers from SMC, SDA, PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control and other departments were present in the meeting.