LCMA Vice Chairman inspects Khushalsar Gilsar lake system to review conservation measures

SRINAGAR, July 9, 2026 :- Vice Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Lake Conservation and Management Authority, Khurshid Ahmad Shah, conducted an extensive inspection tour of the Khushalsar Gilsar lake system today, covering Gil Kadal, Sazgaripora, Saidapora, and adjoining areas to review the progress of ongoing conservation and protection measures.

Accompanied by the Superintending Engineer, Collector, all Executive Engineers, Assistant Executive Engineers, Junior Engineers, and Revenue officials, the Vice Chairman undertook a comprehensive, on-the-spot review of the demarcation exercise being carried out by the field teams.

Stressing the vital importance of clearly establishing the boundaries of these water bodies and their protected zones, he directed the demarcation teams to expedite the pegging and marking of all identified land to ensure proper identification, protection, and effective monitoring of these ecologically significant assets.

During his interaction with the field staff, the Vice Chairman emphasized the need for sustained vigilance and coordinated efforts in carrying out conservation activities. He instructed the concerned officers to ensure that the demarcation work is completed in a time-bound manner while maintaining complete accuracy and transparency, alongside conducting regular inspections to prevent any encroachment or unauthorized activity within the demarcated areas.

Reviewing the physical condition of the water body, he ordered that the Water Master and barge be mobilized and shifted to the Khushalsar Gilsar water body on priority today itself so that cleaning and other restoration activities can be intensified without any delay.Furthermore, the Vice Chairman reviewed the existing protective measures along vulnerable stretches of the Khushalsar Gilsar water bodies.

Recognizing the need for strengthening the physical protection of the lake boundaries, he directed the Engineering Wing of the authority to immediately prepare a detailed proposal for the installation of chain-link fencing around the identified vulnerable locations to secure the demarcated land and discourage encroachments.

Reiterating the commitment towards the long-term preservation of the Khushalsar Gilsar lake system, he stated that the authority remains dedicated to protecting these important urban wetlands through scientific management and infrastructure development, which are vital for maintaining the ecological balance and preserving the natural heritage of the Kashmir Valley.