BASHARAT RASHID
Pulwama: Notwithstanding assurances by former MLA, who was also a minister of state in erstwhile coalition government, the Chatlam lake, situated in Lalpora village of this south Kashmir district, has been reduced to a garbage dump and has become a source of concern for residents of nearby localities.
Not long ago, Chatlam Lake served as a source of drinking water to many nearby villages and attracted a variety of migratory birds. But, its continued neglect, especially continuous dumping of garbage, wood pieces and other wastes, makes its waters unfit and harmful for human consumption and essentially threatens its existence.
“The Chatlam lake is very beautiful lake and is covering vast area. It is located near famous saffron fields and need to be upgraded for the welfare of people and government,” a local resident Tariq Ahmad said.
He said it could be a great source of income for the local people and for the government as well, if it is upgraded.
Bashir Ahmad, another local resident, said that lot of migratory birds use to visit the Lake in different seasons which adds more beauty into it.
“Several migratory bird species could be seen here in this lake and they come from different parts of the world. They add to the beauty by roaming in and around of this lake for months,” he said, adding, “From last few years, I could see that the number of birds has reduced and the government needs to take measures which will ensure that winged visitors keep a date with the lake.”
The locals said that concerned MLA, who was the minister of state during his tenure in erstwhile regime, had assured them to take measures for the protection of the water body and “affiliate it with eco-tourism.” “Nothing has been done,” the locals rued.
They said that even after his assurances, people have not seen any official visiting the area to review the lake, let alone take measures for its protection.
“The lake has lot of land available in its vicinity and authorities can develop parks so that it becomes more attractive spot for the visitors,” they said and urged governor administration to upgrade the Chatlam lake to attract more visitors.
