Anchar Lake: A Dying Ecosystem in the Heart of Kashmir

Anchar Lake, once a vibrant wetland and an extension of the renowned Dal Lake, paints a somber picture of ecological degradation in the heart of Kashmir. Located near Soura, in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, this natural lake is now a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of pollution, encroachment, and mismanagement. Declared a “Dead Lake,” Anchar's plight demands urgent attention and concerted efforts to revitalize its dying ecosystem.

A Crucial Link in the Valley's Hydrographic Network

Anchar Lake's strategic location underscores its historical significance. Situated close to Ganderbal district and connected to the iconic Dal Lake via the "Amir Khan Nallah" – akin to the Dal-gate connecting Dal to Nagin Lake – it served as a vital flood control mechanism for the valley. During periods of excessive rainfall or snowmelt, Anchar acted as a crucial reservoir, diverting excess water from Dal Lake, thus mitigating the risk of flooding in Srinagar. This natural connection highlights the lake’s vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.

A Slow Decline: From Tourist Hotspot to Deteriorated Water Body

Historically, Anchar Lake was a significant tourist destination. Shikaras and houseboats regularly traversed the waters from Dal Lake, offering visitors a serene journey through the picturesque Kashmiri landscape. The crystal-clear waters were used for drinking and domestic purposes, reflecting the pristine environment that once prevailed. Records indicate that boat rides from Dal Lake to Khushal Sar Lake, culminating in leisurely strolls around Anchar, were a common pastime. The lake's cool summer breezes and the breathtaking reflections of the Mahadave and Tungal Ball mountains made it a popular destination for houseboat stays.

However, this idyllic scene began to fade as the 20th century progressed. Over the years, Anchar Lake has witnessed a rapid decline in its ecological health, primarily due to escalating pollution, rampant encroachment, and illegal construction activities in its immediate surroundings. The consequences of these factors are multifaceted and far-reaching.

The Culprits: Pollution, Encroachment, and Urban Development

The primary drivers of Anchar Lake’s deterioration are intertwined and mutually reinforcing:

• Pollution: Untreated sewage and solid waste from surrounding settlements directly enter the lake, drastically altering its water quality. This influx of pollutants promotes eutrophication – an excessive enrichment of water by nutrients – leading to algal blooms, oxygen depletion, and the death of aquatic life. Agricultural runoff containing pesticides and fertilizers further exacerbates the pollution problem.
• Encroachment and Illegal Construction: The expansion of residential areas and commercial establishments along the lake's periphery has resulted in significant land encroachment. This encroachment reduces the lake's surface area, disrupts natural drainage patterns, and encroaches upon the natural habitat for various species. The construction of buildings and infrastructure further contributes to pollution through runoff and the alteration of the lake's hydrology.
• Nallah Mar Bypass and Clogged Drainage: The construction of the Mearplan highway in the 1990s, designed to bypass the Nallah Mar waterway, inadvertently contributed to Anchar’s problems. While six-foot pipes were installed to allow Dal Lake to drain into Anchar, these pipes quickly became clogged with waste and debris, hindering the natural flow of water and contributing to the lake's stagnation.

The Human Dimension: The Hanji Community

Similar to Dal and Wular Lakes, Anchar Lake is home to the Hanji community, a traditional fishing and houseboat-dwelling community who reside near the lake in what is locally known as Anchar. The deterioration of the lake directly impacts their livelihoods and cultural heritage. As the lake's ecosystem collapses, their traditional fishing grounds are depleted, and the overall quality of life deteriorates, forcing many to seek alternative means of survival.

The Urgent Need for Restoration

The restoration of Anchar Lake is not merely an environmental imperative; it is also a social and economic necessity. The lake's revival would:

• Restore Biodiversity: Rehabilitating the lake's ecosystem would provide a suitable habitat for a wide range of aquatic species, including fish, birds, and aquatic plants, enhancing the region's biodiversity.
• Improve Water Quality: Reducing pollution levels would improve water quality, making it safer for human use and agricultural purposes.
• Boost Tourism: A revitalized Anchar Lake could once again become a popular tourist destination, generating revenue and employment opportunities for the local community.
• Enhance Flood Control: Restoring the lake's natural capacity to absorb excess water would help mitigate the risk of flooding in Srinagar.
• Support Livelihoods: The restoration of the lake would provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for the Hanji community, allowing them to continue their traditional way of life.

Pathways to Restoration: A Multi-pronged Approach

Restoring Anchar Lake requires a comprehensive and multi-pronged approach, including:

• Pollution Control: Implementing strict regulations to prevent the discharge of untreated sewage and solid waste into the lake. Construction and upgrading of sewage treatment plants and solid waste management facilities are essential.
• Encroachment Removal: Removing illegal encroachments and enforcing strict regulations to prevent further land grabbing.
• Dredging and Desiltation: Removing accumulated sediment and debris from the lakebed to increase its water holding capacity and improve water quality.
• Restoring Drainage Channels: Clearing and restoring the Amir Khan Nallah and other drainage channels to ensure the proper flow of water into and out of the lake.
• Community Participation: Engaging the local community in the restoration process to ensure its long-term sustainability.
• Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness among the public about the importance of Anchar Lake and the need to protect it.

Anchar Lake stands as a critical example of the environmental challenges facing Kashmir. Its degradation serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the detrimental consequences of unchecked development and unsustainable practices. Only through dedicated efforts and a concerted approach involving the government, local communities, and environmental organizations can this dying ecosystem be brought back to life, ensuring a sustainable future for Kashmir Natural Heritage. The revival of Anchar Lake is not just about restoring a water body; it's about restoring hope for a healthier and more sustainable future for the entire valley.