Saderkoot (Bandipora), Jan 24: Minster for Forests Environment and Ecology Mian Altaf on Thursday said the pristine glory of the Wullar lake would be restored very soon.
“I am motioning the ongoing work on the Wullar Conservation Project. We have started first phase.  In the next phase cleaning and removal of trees would be initiated,” Altaf said.
The Minister visited this north Kashmir area on Thursday and took stock of the ongoing work on the Wullar Conservation Project. He asked concerned agencies to expedite the work.
Stating that the Wullar Conservation Project is one of prestigious project Altaf said: “We are procuring sophisticated machinery to clean the lake in order to restore its pristine glory.”
The Centre has approved Rs 120-crore project for conservation and development of Asia’s largest fresh water lake-Wular.
The Minister called for judicious use of funds and said only need-based works should be taken up, which would have good impact on the development of the lake. In the first Phase of the project, WDA would work for the eco-restoration, water management and wildlife conservation.
“In the first phase of the project the adjoining streams would be cleaned so that water from the lake is drained out smoothly, besides the efforts are being made for eco-restoration, water management and wildlife conservation,” the Minister said.
He ordered early demarcation of Wular land, removal of encroachments and cleanliness besides early removal of Willow trees. He instructed the authorities to work in a transparent manner and ensure employment avenues for the local youth while executing the prestigious project.

Lastupdate on : Thu, 24 Jan 2013 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Thu, 24 Jan 2013 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 IST