J-K Govt mulls conservation of Mansar,Surinsar lakes

Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to formulate comprehensive conservation projects for the twin lakes of Mansar and Surinsar with special focus on restoration of natural habitats and expansion of green cover near the water bodies.

The decision was taken in a high-level meeting,chaired by the Minister for Forests and Environment Mian Altaf Ahmed,convened to review the functioning of wildlife and forest departments here on Monday evening.

The minister said Rs 3 crore were already earmarked by the Centre for the conservation of the two water bodies.

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But there is a need to chalk out long-term plan for the conservation of these lakes which are facing severe threat from climatic change and other factors,Ahmed said.

So far,Rs 86.50 lakh has been released,out of which Rs 62.50 lakh were expended during the last two years for preservation projects near the lakes,it said.