House panel raps state, Centre over Dal upkeep

Tests conducted on water samples show the lake is receiving a large quantity of nitrogen and phosphorus from a nullah Telbal Bota Khul and at least 15 drains. Besides, the huge population residing along its banks and houseboats contribute to a high level of pollution. The situation has reached a point where the nutrients are getting deposited in the sediments and may render the lake water unsuitable for drinking in the future.

The J-K Lakes and Waterways Development Authority figures show the total phosphorus inflow in the lake is upto 110 tonnes. And 4.5 tonnes of total phosphorus and 18.14 tonnes of nitrogen are added to the lake from other sources. This is inspite of a Detailed Project Report that was prepared for the conservation of the lake.

The authority8217;s report says in a year, two operations had been conducted, which has brought down the nitrogen level by 109.3 tonnes and phosphorus by 11.4 tonnes. The standing committee, however, has noted that the level of organic pollutants in the lake cannot be so high if the conservation efforts, as claimed by the authorities, were taken.

The committee in its report, tabled in both Houses last week, said the conservation of Dal Lake is a national issue because it is not only an ecological issue but also affects the economy of the state.