SAC conducts inspection of Dal, Nigeen lakes

SRINAGAR, JUNE 21: The Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) of LAWDA today conducted extensive inspection of Dal and Nigeen lakes to assess the spread of Lily and other aquatic plants in the lake and measures undertaken for their removal.
The inspection was held under the chairmanship of SAC Chairman and Ex. Member National Green Tribunal New Delhi (NGT) Dr A.R Yousuf and was attended by members including VC LAWDA Dr A.H Masoodi, Senior Advocate Zaffar Shah, Prof Nisar Ali, Dean Fisheries SKAUST Dr Masood-ul-Hassan, Members of SAC Dr D.P. Zutshi, Dr. G. Balachandar, Dr Ashok Kumar Pandita, Mohammad Shafi Bacha, Dr Farooq Ahmad Lone, Dr Manzoor Ahmad Shah, Dr Shakeel Romshoo besides, this inspection was attended by officials of LAWDA, scientists and experts from LAWDA and other concerned officials.
The members expressed serious concern about the spread of the Lily in the lake and impressed upon the LAWDA authorities to take all possible steps including procurement of latest types of equipment to contain the spread of Lily and other aquatic plants in the lake.
Later, the members attended 7th Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting of LAWDA at SKICC.
Threadbare discussion was held on various aspects on the conservation of Dal Lake like removal of Lily pads, Deweeding and Algal bloom, Occurrence and Infestation of Azolla, Vegetation mapping, Assessment of Pesticides and conservation of de-weeded material into compost and Vision document.
On the occasion, Dr A.H Masoodi highlighted the ongoing conservation works in and around Dal and Nigeen lakes. He said that a special drive for the removal of aquatic plants both manually and mechanically, has been already started and so far three sq km area has been cleared from Nymphea and Macrophyic plants. Total 1100 workers are engaged full time to clear the aquatic plants in these lakes. These workers get their wages through Direct Bank Transfer (DBT) mode for the first time to ensure transparency and accountability.