Srinagar, Dec 19 (KNS): The Nigeen Lake Conservation Organisation has reiterated its support for youth centric development while strongly cautioning against unplanned interventions that may harm fragile water bodies, particularly Nigeen Lake.

In a communication addressed to the MLA Zadibal, NLCO chairman Manzoor Wangnoo stated that NLCO fully supports the development of sports infrastructure, describing it as a genuine need of the time for youth engagement, fitness, and wellbeing. The organisation noted that over 2,000 students from an educational institution located nearby, along with youth from Bhagwanpora and surrounding localities, would directly benefit from the availability of a sports ground.

NLCO acknowledged that a stay has reportedly been placed on further development at Cherry Park. In this context, the organisation suggested that Anar Bagh, located in close proximity, may be explored as an alternative and suitable site for establishing a sports facility, thereby serving the same public purpose without facing existing constraints.

At the same time, NLCO raised serious concerns regarding the future course of development around Nigeen Lake. The organisation stressed that while Nigeen undoubtedly requires ecological and aesthetic upgradation such as systematic cleaning, installation of aerators, and most critically, connection of all drains to the Sewage Treatment Plant, it must not be subjected to intrusive construction activity.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Drawing lessons from the Western Foreshore Road and Brari Nambal, NLCO expressed concern that concrete roads, pavements, or similar hard infrastructure along the lakefront could permanently damage the lake’s ecology. The organisation warned that such interventions have historically altered natural character, disrupted hydrology, and caused long term ecological harm.

Nigeen Lake, NLCO said, is serene by nature and environmentally sensitive. Any development that ignores this reality risks repeating past mistakes. Decisions taken today will shape how future generations inherit this water body.

NLCO urged that development and conservation must move together, guided by science, sensitivity, and long term vision, so that Nigeen does not suffer the same fate as other degraded urban water bodies of Srinagar.

The organisation expressed hope that these submissions will be considered in the larger public, environmental, and generational interest.(KNS)