Illegal excavation threatens Hokersar wetland in Srinagar outskirts, allege locals

Srinagar : Concerns are mounting over illegal excavation activities at the Hokersar wetland in central Kashmir’s Srinagar district, a vital ecological zone in Kashmir that serves as a key habitat for migratory birds.
Locals said that the excessive soil removal and mismanagement are severely damaging the wetland’s biodiversity and disrupting the natural habitat of migratory birds.
They said the continuous activity by heavy machinery and trucks in the area has caused significant ecological disruption.
“We used to see large flocks of migratory birds every season, but their numbers have dwindled drastically,” said Nazir Ahmad, a resident living near the wetland. “The noise and disturbance from these activities are pushing them away,” he said.
Bashir Ahmad Khan, another local, said that unauthorized soil excavation and improper management have led to a drop in critical water levels in the wetland. “Wetlands are delicate ecosystems, and any imbalance can have cascading effects on biodiversity,” he said.
Notably, the Hokersar Wetland, which is part of Kashmir’s network of wetlands, plays a crucial role in supporting migratory bird species during their seasonal movements.
Conservationists warn that the ongoing activities could have long-term consequences for the region’s ecosystem if left unchecked.
Meanwhile, the Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has called for immediate action to address the issue.
It accused the Wildlife Department of failing to safeguard the wetland, alleging that unauthorized contractors are excavating soil beyond permissible limits, leading to large dump sites that further compromise the wetland’s integrity.
An EPG representative said, “This is ecological vandalism. The department’s inaction has facilitated these activities, which are not only damaging the wetland but also forcing migratory birds to abandon their natural habitat.”
The group also claimed that one of its members was threatened while attempting to document the illegal activities.
It demanded a high-level inquiry into what they describe as the “Mitti Scandal” and an audit of wetland management funds.
Meanwhile, an official stated that a team will visit the site to assess the situation. “Those found guilty will face necessary action,” the official said