SRINAGAR — The latest demolition drive at Brari Nambal has raised questions among local residents and observers over the monitoring of landfilling and alleged encroachment at the sensitive waterbody, particularly how fresh filling was allegedly allowed to continue before action was taken after the site was occupied by car dealers.
According to local accounts, landfilling activity continued at the site for around 15 days before the filled-up portion was subsequently occupied by car dealers.
Authorities demolished the structure or occupation on Saturday, bringing renewed attention to how alleged encroachments and unauthorised landfilling are being monitored and addressed at Brari Nambal.
The developments have drawn particular attention because an office of the Lakes Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) is located in the vicinity.
Locals who spoke to news agency KNT questioned how landfilling could allegedly continue for several days in an area under the jurisdiction and monitoring of agencies responsible for the protection and conservation of water bodies.
They said the issue was not limited to the demolition carried out on Saturday but also concerned the circumstances that allegedly allowed the landfilling to take place in the first instance.
The residents questioned whether action should not have been taken when filling material was allegedly being dumped rather than after the filled-up portion had been occupied and put to commercial use.
Brari Nambal, located in Srinagar, has repeatedly faced concerns over encroachment, dumping and unauthorised alterations to its surroundings.
Locals said the latest episode highlighted the broader challenge of protecting the city’s remaining wetlands and water channels from gradual encroachment and alteration.
The developments have also revived concerns over the alleged commercial use of land created through filling. Residents said portions of the area could become vulnerable to occupation once landfilling continued unchecked, making subsequent enforcement more difficult.
Locals have called for an explanation from the concerned authorities regarding the reported 15-day period during which the landfilling allegedly continued.
They have also sought details on whether any permission was granted for the activity, which agency was responsible for monitoring the site and what action, if any, was taken when the filling allegedly began.
Questions have also been raised over whether the demolition should be followed by measures to restore the affected portion and prevent further filling or encroachment at the site.
Residents said protection of water bodies should not be limited to demolition drives after an alleged encroachment has taken shape. They urged the authorities to strengthen surveillance and take preventive action against dumping, filling and construction before such activities result in lasting alteration of the water body.
The residents also demanded that the authorities identify those responsible for the alleged landfilling and establish whether any permissions or official clearances had been obtained.
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