DC Srinagar visits Hokersar Wetland Conservation Reserve

Srinagar, Dec 13: Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Mohammad Aijaz Asad on Monday visited Hokersar Wetland Conservation Reserve, the largest bird habitat in the Kashmir Valley at Zainakote in Srinagar District and took stock of conservation measures being taken up there.
The Deputy Commissioner asked the department of Wildlife Protection to ensure completion of the demarcation process of the wetland. He also directed the revenue officials to launch a special anti-encroachment drive around the Hokersar Wetland to remove all illegal constructions along the Ramsar site of Kashmir Valley, which is also an abode to myriad number of migratory birds.
The DC also discussed about seeking community support for conservation activities in the wetland for effective results and restoring past glory of the Hokersar.
On the occasion, the DC was informed that Hokersar is Wetland Conservation Reserve notified under Wildlife Protection Act with an area of 1354 hectares. He was also apprised about the salient features of Hokersar site, challenges to the wetland and mitigation measures being taken up. Chief Planning Officer, Srinagar, Wildlife Warden (Wetlands), Tehsildar Shalteng, Officers of Irrigation & Flood Control and other Officers, besides staff of Department of Wildlife Protection accompanied the Deputy commissioner during his visit.