Kashmir lakes polluted, urgent remedial measures needed: expert

Jaipur, Nov 1 (UNI) The world-famous lakes in the Kashmir valley were at the brink of becoming 'drains' following increase in pollution and unchecked dumping of sewage, fertilizers and pesticides residues.

''The Kashmir valley lakes are very important as they are used for various purposes like irrigation, navigation, recreation and for drinking,'' former Principal, Higher Education Department, Jammu and Kashmir, SG Sarwar noted at the 12th World Lakes Conference here.

Due to increasing pollution, the water quality of the lakes had undergone drastic changes. While some of the species had already become extinct, others were in endangered category while pollution tolerant species were showing prolific growth, the paper pointed out.

The spurt in developmental activities and human interference around the lake had taken toll on the water bodies and threatening the survival of the existing life forms, said Mr Sarwar.

''The valley lakes are facing threat of imbalance due to human interference and authorities need to take urgent measures to preserve this natural heritage of Kashmir,'' Mr Sarwar added.

UNI