Srinagar, Sep 23 (KNS): The Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC) Jammu and Kashmir has expressed concern over alleged unlawful interference and encroachment of water bodies in the Union Territory, urging the authorities to take stringent measures to protect rivers, lakes and lagoons.

In a statement issued here on Wednesday, the GCC raised alarm over reports of alleged interference with Anchar Lake and Brar-e-Nambal lagoon in Srinagar, besides recent attempts to encroach upon Dal and Nigeen lakes along the northern side of the Northern Foreshore Road (NFR).

The group appealed to the government to take strict action against those involved and put in place effective measures to prevent what it described as "unlawful interference with impunity".

"The need to assign Anchar and Brar-e-Nambal to the care and custody of an appropriate agency of the government was yet again brought up in our meeting with the Chief Minister on September 1," the GCC said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

It expressed hope that the seriousness of the issue would be recognised and an effective mechanism for the protection of these and other threatened water resources would be instituted without further delay.

The GCC also expressed dismay over what it termed "indifference" among the public, particularly local communities, towards preventing illegal interference with water bodies.

The group said it had shared media reports and video clips concerning the alleged encroachments with the district and divisional administration for necessary corrective action.

The GCC urged the authorities to act promptly to protect the water bodies from further encroachment and unlawful intervention.(KNS)