Time to protect wetlands

The World Wetlands Day is being observed to raise awareness about the vital role wetlands play in the environment, highlighting their importance for biodiversity, water regulation, flood control, and climate change mitigation, and to encourage their conservation and wise use through public action and policy changes. However, in Jammu and Kashmir, the day has been celebrated with the cycling event and other similar activities, which doesn’t make any sense as the need was to take apt measures to put an end to the shrinking of agricultural and horticultural lands in the Valley. In the Valley, wetlands face not only the challenges of natural degradation but also the looming danger of exploitation driven by rampant encroachment on agricultural and horticultural lands. The situation has grown more dire, with the very land that sustains local livelihoods, maintains ecological balance, and contributes to the cultural heritage of the valley being systematically plundered. The fertile land that once supported a thriving agrarian economy is being sold off or diverted for non-agricultural uses at an alarming rate. The orchard industry, which is one of the region’s key economic sectors, is facing serious challenges as land meant for farming is increasingly being repurposed for residential, commercial, and industrial developments. Horticultural land particularly that which is used for the famous Kashmiri apple, saffron and walnut farming is being encroached upon by construction projects that undermine the region’s food security. There is a need to look into these grave issues and ensure no more shrinking of the agricultural and horticultural lands in the Valley. The time calls for strict action against those involved in such practices. Taking action in this regard would ensure the proper observation and celebration of World Wetlands Day.