Srinagar, July 8: The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has sought a comprehensive status report in the 24-year-old Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the protection, preservation and restoration of the iconic Dal Lake, directing the Amicus Curiae to submit a detailed factual note highlighting the progress made since the case was filed in 2002, the shortcomings that continue to persist, and the future measures required for safeguarding the lake.
The long-pending PIL, one of the most significant environmental litigations in Jammu and Kashmir, focuses on the deteriorating condition of Dal Lake due to pollution, illegal encroachments, discharge of untreated sewage, unregulated construction and other ecological threats affecting its fragile ecosystem.
During the hearing, the Division Bench observed that a consolidated status report would enable the Court to obtain a clear and comprehensive understanding of the developments in the matter over the past two decades. The Bench noted that the report should include details of actions taken by various government departments, compliance with earlier court directions, achievements made so far and the challenges that continue to hinder effective conservation of the lake.
The Court requested senior advocate Z.A. Shah, who is serving as the Amicus Curiae, to prepare and place the detailed factual report before the Bench ahead of the next hearing.
The High Court has fixed August 31 as the next date of hearing and directed that the report should specifically outline the progress achieved since the filing of the PIL, identify areas where implementation has fallen short and recommend the future course of action necessary for the protection, preservation and sustainable development of Dal Lake.
Since its institution in 2002, the High Court has been continuously monitoring the matter and has issued several directions to various government departments and agencies regarding pollution control, removal of encroachments, regulation of illegal constructions, scientific sewage management and ecological restoration of Dal Lake.
Dal Lake, regarded as one of Kashmir’s most treasured natural assets and a major tourist attraction, holds immense environmental, cultural and economic significance. The Court has repeatedly emphasized the need for coordinated and sustained efforts to preserve the lake for future generations. (KNC)
