Naveed Ul Haq
Budgam, Dec 01: The huge chunk of Hokersar wetland turning dry has put the migratory birds at great risk.
Hokersar attracts millions of migratory birds every year including Tufted Ducks, Gadwalls, Mallards and other species who fly here from Siberia and other parts.
Shabir Ahmad Gani a villager from Budgam District, said that the dredging in the upper parts of Hokersar by Flood and Irrigation Control Department, was the main reason for huge chunks of wetland turning dry.
Another local Tawseef Khan said that it for the first time that such vast area has dried up.
“Hokersar is shrinking, residents from the side of Srinagar –Baramulla national highway, throw garbage in it, posing a serious threat to aquatic life of the wetland,” he said.
Meanwhile, Range officer, Sohail Ahmad told KNO that the water level has been reduced due to the dredging done by flood and irrigation control department.
“Water catchment area of the wetland is receiving less water due to silt,” he said.
Ahmad said that the concerned employees have blocked all the exit points of water from Gund Hassi Bhat, Sozait ,Daharmuna and others areas that would help in the accumulation of water in the entire wetland.
“People have also encroached land illegal. Action will be taken against all the encroacher’s,” he said.
Dry Hokersar wetland put migratory birds at risk
