Srinagar, Aug 7: Fresh water quality tests conducted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), New Delhi have revealed alarming levels of pollution in Manasbal Lake, a key source of drinking water for nearly 50,000 to 60,000 residents of Ganderbal and Bandipora districts, intensifying concerns over public health and environmental degradation.
The water analysis was carried out on the directions of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) during the hearing of a petition filed by Kashmir-based RTI activist Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, who has been seeking judicial intervention over the deteriorating condition of the lake.
The CPCB findings, placed before the Tribunal, reportedly indicate heavy pollution in the lake, raising serious questions about the quality of water being supplied to thousands of consumers dependent on the water body for drinking purposes.
During the latest hearing, counsel representing the Jammu and Kashmir Government sought additional time to file a response to the CPCB report, following which the Tribunal deferred further proceedings.
The matter is now expected to be decided by the National Green Tribunal after considering the government’s reply and the pollution assessment submitted by the Central Pollution Control Board.
Environmental activists have repeatedly expressed concern over untreated sewage, encroachments and unchecked human activities contributing to the ecological degradation of Manasbal Lake, regarded as one of Kashmir’s most important freshwater lakes. [KNT]
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