The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has written to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah seeking an inquiry into the alleged ‘mismanagement’ of Kashmir’s wetlands. While these wetlands, like Hokersar, Haigham, Shallabugh and Mirgund, are not merely patches of waterlogged land; they are ecologically critical areas that support local wildlife, prevent floods and maintain water tables. The EPG’s findings detail a deeply troubling picture as it claims that the Hokersar Wetland, once known as the ‘Queen of Wetlands’, is ‘nearly unrecognisable’ due to the unchecked removal of soil by the so-called ‘Mitti Mafia’, causing it to dry up. The ‘destruction’ of Haigham, due to silt accumulation and illegal encroachment for paddy fields and orchards, also highlights the widespread nature of this environmental damage. This situation is particularly concerning given the larger context of wetland degradation globally, where wetlands are valued for their capacity to mitigate climate change, maintain biodiversity and provide essential resources for local populations. The Ramsar Convention, to which India is a signatory, legally obligates the country to protect its wetlands. Thus, the EPG’s reports point to a failure not only at the UT level but also on a national and international front, where the protection of such critical ecosystems is a shared global responsibility. Encroachments and illegal resource extraction point to a systematic failure in Kashmir’s environmental governance. The EPG’s findings suggest that these wetlands are viewed as ‘commodities’ rather than protected ecosystems vital for Kashmir’s sustainability. The illegal riverbed mining, for instance, illustrates a reckless exploitation of natural resources, disregarding the livelihood needs of local communities and exposing the land to potential floods and erosion. By allowing riverbeds to be mined by JCBs and excavators, the authorities as per the findings are overlooking basic environmental protections and violating laws designed to support local, sustainable practices. If immediate action isn’t taken, the repercussions will ripple through Kashmir’s ecology and economy. The fallout is not just environmental degradation but also societal harm, as locals dependent on these wetlands face reduced water supplies, failed crops and increased flood risks. This undermines the livelihoods of communities whose lives are closely intertwined with the wetlands. Beyond addressing the physical degradation, a high-level inquiry is essential to hold accountable those involved in this mismanagement. An inquiry would also allow the administration to review existing policies and build better regulatory frameworks. Strengthening the legal mechanisms protecting wetlands could deter similar violations in the future and promote transparency in Kashmir’s environmental governance. The EPG’s call for action is ultimately a call to re-evaluate priorities as it has also alleged the involvement of retired and present officials in malpractices. The current administration has an opportunity to demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development that balances the needs of people, the economy and the environment. As the EPG notes, this issue deserves serious and immediate attention, not only for the wetlands themselves but also for the communities whose livelihoods are bound to them. It is hoped that the government initiates a probe into the allegations of the EPG.
Saving Wetlands
