Budgam, July 13 (JKNS): Sameer Bhat, Constituency Incharge of the Indian National Congress in Budgam, has stated that the conservation of Hokersar Wetland is an urgent necessity.
However, every measure undertaken toward this objective must strictly adhere to the principles of law, transparency, and justice so that the legitimate land rights and livelihoods of local residents remain unaffected.
He said that Hokersar Wetland, located on the outskirts of Srinagar and extending into parts of Budgam district, is among Jammu and Kashmir’s most significant ecological assets. Recognized as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, it serves as a crucial habitat for migratory birds and plays a key role in promoting biodiversity, regulating water flow, and maintaining the ecological balance of the Kashmir Valley.
Bhat noted that residents of Soibugh, Daharmunah, Hajibagh, and adjoining areas have expressed concern over the ongoing demarcation process. They fear that agricultural and privately owned lands, which have historically remained outside the wetland boundaries and are duly recorded in revenue records, are being brought within the ambit of the wetland.
He stressed that any demarcation exercise must be carried out on the basis of authentic revenue records, scientific surveys, historical evidence, and meaningful public consultation. Landowners should be fully informed of the criteria used for fixing boundaries, and their objections should be heard and resolved through a transparent and fair mechanism.
He further urged the government to ensure that no private agricultural land is declared wetland without due legal process. In cases of dispute, impartial verification involving revenue officials, technical experts, public representatives, and affected residents should be undertaken to build trust and avoid unnecessary conflict.
Bhat said that local communities fully recognize the ecological importance of Hokersar Wetland and wholeheartedly support its genuine conservation. At the same time, environmental protection should not come at the cost of citizens’ legitimate rights or traditional agricultural activities. He emphasized that harmonizing environmental conservation with public welfare alone can ensure a sustainable, just, and lasting solution. (JKNS)
