Srinagar, July 9: As the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh seeks a comprehensive status report on the progress of the 24-year-old Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the preservation and restoration of Srinagar’s iconic Dal Lake, concerns continue to grow among those whose lives and livelihoods are directly dependent on the water body.
The Division Bench of Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Kumar and Justice Mohd Yousuf Wani has directed the amicus curiae to submit a detailed factual note outlining the course of the litigation, the directions issued over the years, and the issues that still require judicial intervention. The matter, pending since 2002, has witnessed numerous court orders aimed at improving the ecological health of Dal Lake, which continues to face pollution, encroachment, siltation and unplanned urban expansion.
“Dal Lake used to be much cleaner years ago. Today, pollution has increased significantly. We can no longer rely on the lake’s water and have to drink mineral water instead. There have been widespread encroachments, and the lake has been shrinking from within. If timely and effective measures are not taken, this priceless natural heritage will continue to deteriorate,” Patloo said.
“Dal Lake is not only our source of livelihood but also Kashmir’s identity. Despite years of discussions and court directions, much more needs to be done on the ground. Removing pollution, preventing encroachments and restoring the lake should remain the government’s top priority. Protecting Dal Lake is a collective responsibility, and concrete action is the need of the hour,” Pakhtoon said.
The High Court is expected to review the comprehensive factual report at the next hearing on August 31, alongside connected petitions and applications, as it assesses what further steps are necessary to ensure the long-term protection and conservation of Kashmir’s most iconic lake.
