As Authorities Target Poor Homes for Dal Lake Conservation, Illegal Constructions Flourish Under Political Influence in Alim Bhat Mohalla and Shahdabagh”
Bilal Bhat
Srinagar, Dec 5, 2024: A growing controversy is unfolding as the Lakes Conservation Management Authority (LCMA), responsible for preserving the Dal Lake, faces mounting criticism for alleged discriminatory practices in Srinagar’s Alim Bhat Mohalla and Shahdabagh areas. While the LCMA has been demolishing homes in various parts of the city under the banner of Dal Lake conservation, illegal construction projects—believed to be backed by political influence—continue unchecked in these very areas.
Residents of Hazratbal and periphers are expressing anger and frustration as they watch large-scale constructions take place in their neighborhoods, despite these areas being part of the LCMA’s jurisdiction. Local activists and residents claim that these developments, which are allegedly fueled by political patronage, violate zoning and environmental regulations, yet remain unchallenged by the authorities. Meanwhile, the LCMA has continued to target and demolish homes in other parts of Srinagar, particularly in lower-income neighborhoods, under the guise of environmental protection.
Umar Dar, a local resident from Saderbal Srinagar, highlighted the stark disparity, calling the situation a clear case of double standards. “The authorities are demolishing poor people’s homes for Dal Lake conservation, but massive illegal constructions are happening right under their noses in places like Alim Bhat Mohalla and Shahdabagh,” he said. “If you have political connections, you can build whatever you want. The poor are left homeless, while the rich continue to profit.”
Dal Lake, one of Srinagar’s most iconic landmarks, has long struggled with encroachments and pollution. The LCMA’s mission is to preserve and restore the lake by removing illegal structures that threaten its ecological health. However, critics argue that the LCMA’s conservation efforts disproportionately target the poor, while overlooking major illegal constructions that are believed to be politically connected.
Earlier this year, Awami Reporter raised alarms over the rise of illegal buildings in Shahdabagh, some of which are reportedly supported by influential political figures. Despite these concerns, the LCMA has failed to take action. This has led many to accuse the authorities of systemic favoritism, allowing the powerful to sidestep the law while punishing the vulnerable.
“This is not about protecting Dal Lake; it’s about pushing the poor out of their homes to make room for the rich,” said Syed Abbas, a local activist. “The authorities demolish homes and displace families in the name of conservation, but no action is taken against illegal constructions that are clearly against the law.”
The situation has sparked widespread public outrage, with residents of Hazratbal and other areas now calling on the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir and the Chief Secretary to intervene. They are demanding an independent inquiry into the LCMA’s actions and a halt to the ongoing illegal constructions in Alim Bhat Mohalla and Shahdabagh.
With the future of Dal Lake at stake, the controversy raises crucial questions about the balance between environmental conservation and social justice. Critics are calling for the LCMA to adopt a more transparent and equitable approach, ensuring that conservation efforts do not disproportionately harm the most vulnerable communities.
