Shaikh-ul Aalam Centre for Multidisciplinary Studies (SACMS), University of Kashmir, Srinagar in collaboration with India Scanner News Network Pvt. Ltd and Jazzbaat 24, organised an event titled: “Save Dal Lake: Mission Impossible!!!” on 10^th February 2022 in the Seminar Hall of the Centre. Prof. Talat Ahmad, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir was the Chief Guest on this occasion while Prof. G. N. Khaki, Chairman, SACMS presided over the function. Khawaja Farooq Renzu Shah (Former, Director Information, J&K Govt), Molvi Bilal Yousuf (Imam Hazratbal Shrine) and Ghulam Rasool Siah (Chairman, House Boat Owners Association Kashmir) also graced the event as Special Guests.

While highlighting the cultural and economic importance of the Dal Lake, Prof. Talat Ahmad, as an expert geologist spoke about the causes that have led to the shallowness of the Lake, especially the indiscriminate cutting of trees that has resulted in soil erosion and silting harming the Lake in the process. Prof. Khaki in his welcome address described the Dal as God’s beautiful creation, and an important cultural emblem of Kashmir, enjoining the audience to not be unmindful towards it and keep it clean. Prof. Khaki also thanked Mr. Nilanjan Das Gupta, (M.D., India Scanner News Network Pvt. Ltd and Jazzbaat 24) for raising the pertinent issue of saving the Dal Lake. Molvi Bilal Yousuf and Ghulam Rasool Siah also spoke on this occasion. 

Following these proceedings, a documentary “Save Dal Lake” was screened in the Seminar Hall of the Centre. The documentary showcased the ill health of the Dal Lake especially by way of pollution that has overwhelmed the Lake in recent times drawing the attention of the audience towards the ecological consequences resulting from the degradation of the Lake. On the positive side, the documentary highlighted the role of Tariq Ahmad Patloo and his daughter Jannat in their efforts to clean the Dal and generate awareness about it.

                                                                                                                                                                                                         Prof. G. N. Khaki

                                                                                                                                                                                                               Chairman

                                                                                                                                                                                                                  SACMS