LG Manoj Sinha Stresses Need to Protect Lakes and Rivers as Lifelines of Communities

SRINAGAR, Sep 21: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday underscored the importance of preserving Jammu and Kashmir’s lakes and rivers, calling them the “lifelines of people and future generations.”

Speaking at a Swachhta drive organized under Sewa Parv at SKICC on the banks of Dal Lake, LG Sinha said that the responsibility of conservation does not rest solely on agencies like LCMA and SMC, but on every citizen. “The existence of Dal Lake is important not only for us but also for our future generations. We must all come together to safeguard our water bodies,” he emphasized.

Highlighting recent natural challenges faced by the Union Territory, he noted that people have realized the true value of water resources. “We must learn to live in harmony with nature and restore our water bodies to their original form,” he added.

Sinha informed that nearly one-third of Dal Lake, covering 6.5 km, has been made weed-free under ongoing conservation efforts. He also credited the people of Kashmir and government agencies for visible improvements and announced the upcoming Dal-Nigeen Eco Project, which will boost tourism.

The LG further stressed the importance of sanitation and waste management, praising the efforts of sanitation workers. “A garbage-free city and village should not remain a dream. Every citizen must devote time to ensure cleanliness and pledge not to litter,” he said.

Calling for accelerated implementation of ongoing programmes, Sinha added, “True development is incomplete without environmental protection. Rivers and lakes must be preserved as symbols of reverence and culture for future generations.”