Srinagar, August 3, Aug. 4 -- Srinagar's Dal Lake is increasingly showing signs of ecological distress, with large stretches of the historic water body now engulfed by dense weeds and littered with plastic waste, raising serious concerns over its long-term survival despite sustained conservation efforts. A visit to several parts of the lake reveals floating plastic bottles, cold drink cans, liquor bottles, snack wrappers, discarded packaging and other solid waste scattered across the water, giving the impression of a dumping site rather than one of the Valley's most treasured natural landmarks. The deteriorating condition of the lake reflects persistent shortcomings in waste management and routine maintenance.The lake's water, once known ...