Ahmad Ayaz Urges Immediate Action to Resolve Hokarsar Wetland Conflicts
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In a statement for the press, Ahmad Ayaz, a renowned social activist and national TV debater, has drawn the attention of the LG administration to a pressing issue and urged for its immediate resolution.
The Hokarsar Wetland has numerous stakeholders, including locals from Zainakot, Khoshipora, Hajibagh, and Soibugh, as well as extensive land owned by the Raks and Farms Department of J&K, for which Abiyanas are paid by farmers. Conflicts frequently arise between the Department of Wildlife Protection and the locals, as the department often claims the entire area as their jurisdiction and backs their claims with threats of police action.
Efforts to restore the glory of Hokarsar Wetland, which has almost dried up and left no habitat for migratory birds, have been ongoing for many years with significant investment. However, there has been no tangible progress in creating even a minimal habitat for these birds.
This situation is further complicated by the Wildlife Department's approach and the harassment faced by locals who are unable to cultivate their own land. Considering the importance of this issue, Ahmad Ayaz has called for the formation of a committee to verify the land revenue records of the Wildlife Department and establish a permanent demarcation to resolve this matter once and for all.
Ahmad Ayaz's appeal to the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir highlights the need for urgent and fair intervention to address the ongoing conflicts and restore the Hokarsar Wetland.