Div com calls for community participation in preservation of water bodies

Srinagar, Mar 12 (UNI) The Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Pandurang K Pole on Saturday called for community participation in preservation, conservation of historic water bodies in Srinagar.
Pole undertook a comprehensive tour of water bodies in Srinagar including Gilsar, Khushalsar, Nigeen lake, besides Vicharnag Temple to oversee the restoration and conservation measures being taken by different departments, an official spokesman said.
The Divisional Commissioner inspected the ongoing restoration works and directed the Irrigation and Flood Control and Srinagar Municipal Corporation to take measures for beautification of the surroundings along the Gilsar, Khushalsar to enhance the scenic beauty.
He said one of the purposes of the restoration measures of these water bodies is not only enhance the picturesque beauty and environment of the areas but also generate ample opportunities of employment for local youth.
Later, the Div Com also visited Vicharnag Temple and inspected the cleanliness and restoration measures.
The Div Com directed the officers of all the line departments to speed up the pace of restoration and rejuvenation works undertaken to restore historical water bodies in Srinagar to achieve visible impact on ground.
During the visit, the Div Com interacted with the local people and said that Community participation is must for restoring the pristine glory of these water bodies.
He said local communities are actual guardians and have a vital role in identification of encroachments and conservation of these historical water bodies.
He also passed on several directions with regard to beautification and landscaping of the water bodies.
The Div Com also appealed to people living adjacent to water bodies not to pollute these water resources with liquid and solid waste. He advised them to safeguard water bodies is their responsibility.