Srinagar, Oct. 15 -- Kashmir's lakes are its lifeblood with Wular Lake being one of the largest freshwater lakes in the Indian subcontinent. Besides Wular, we have Manabal, Dal, Nigeen, Khushalsar and Gilsar and also so many smaller lakes. These lakes are not ornamental water bodies but living systems that sustain the Valley's identity. They regulate the environment, anchor biodiversity and support livelihoods from boatmen to artisans. They are transport corridors, tourist magnets and cultural touchstones. Yet today, these lakes are shrinking, clogged and encroached upon, their decline threatening ecological balance, economic stability and social cohesion.

Unchecked weed growth, untreated sewage and silt deposits choke their channels. Il...