On November 10, 2024, a historic moment unfolded at Zurmunz Wular as four MLAs—Nizam-u-din Bhat, Hilal Akbar Lone, Irshad Ahmad Kar, and Adv. Irfan Hafeez Lone—visited Wular Lake, Kashmir’s largest freshwater lake, in an unprecedented show of support for its fisherfolk community. Organized by the Wular Fisher Union with environmental advocate Dr. Shaikh Ghulam Rasool, this event set the stage for meaningful dialogue on preserving the lake’s fragile ecosystem while empowering the communities that rely on it for their livelihoods.
The MLAs and Dr. Shaikh united with local leaders and residents, discussing vital steps to ensure equitable access to Wular Lake’s resources, which have long sustained the fisherfolk. This gathering highlighted how environmental conservation and community well-being go hand in hand.
Addressing the Dual Crisis of Environmental and Community Needs
During the event, the fisherfolk’s needs took center stage. Led by Naseer Ahmed Dar, Ghulam Hassan Bhat, and other local leaders, the discussions shed light on issues such as pollution, hydrological damage, and declining fish stocks—all factors that have dramatically affected the community’s ability to thrive. For decades, fisherfolk have relied on Wular for fishing and water chestnut harvesting. However, pollution, improper management, and encroachment have devastated this critical ecosystem, putting livelihoods at risk.
Dr. Shaikh’s keynote address called for fair and equitable tax policies, sustainable management practices, and a renewed commitment to environmental justice. His advocacy focused on the urgent need for sustainable solutions that preserve traditional livelihoods while also protecting the lake’s delicate biodiversity. He applauded the legislative reforms introduced by former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, such as the Right to Information (RTI) Act of 2009 and the Public Service Guarantee Act of 2012, which had paved the way for greater accountability in environmental and public resource management.
MLAs Pledge Support for Sustainable Development
Each MLA expressed a unique commitment to supporting Wular’s fisherfolk and safeguarding the lake. Nizam-u-din Bhat, MLA of Bandipora, assured the community of his support in securing land rights and promoting policy changes that would enable sustainable livelihoods. Hilal Akbar Lone, MLA of Sonawari, underscored the urgency for immediate reforms to ensure that WUCMA, the Wular Conservation and Management Authority, upholds transparency and community-centered management. Meanwhile, Irshad Ahmad Kar, MLA of Sopore, voiced concerns over WUCMA’s fund allocation, advocating for greater accountability to benefit both the lake and the local community.
Adv. Irfan Hafeez Lone, MLA of Kreeri, championed sustainable, nature-based tourism as a solution to bolster local incomes without harming the environment. His efforts have already helped secure housing for fisherfolk families, providing them with stability near their primary livelihood source. Together, the MLAs vowed to champion policies that would strengthen the rights of fisherfolk, allowing them to fish, harvest water chestnuts, and utilize the lake’s resources in sustainable ways.
The Environmental and Cultural Significance of Wular Lake
Wular Lake is not only a lifeline for the local community but also a vital habitat supporting Kashmir’s biodiversity. According to the Fisheries Department, while the lake once hosted 63 fish species, only 13 remain, and nine of those are considered rare. The Euro-Asian Otter and various bird species have all but vanished, along with the iconic lotus stems following the devastating floods of 2014. The lake itself has dwindled from 269 square kilometers to 149, with declining water quality impacting the fish population and the wider ecosystem.
The MLAs’ visit underscores the need for a renewed commitment to protecting Wular Lake for future generations. This event represents a collaborative approach, with lawmakers, environmentalists, and community leaders recognizing that sustainable livelihoods and environmental preservation are interconnected.
Looking to the Future
This landmark gathering symbolizes a hopeful step forward in the preservation of Wular Lake and the empowerment of its surrounding communities. The Wular Fisher Union extended its gratitude to all who participated, reinforcing a collective vision for a balanced approach to conservation and community well-being.
As community advocates and policymakers work side by side, Wular Lake may yet thrive as a model of ecological preservation and sustainable livelihood. Through this partnership, the people of Wular can look forward to a future where their rights are protected, and their environment is cherished.
