Ganderbal: The Wullar-Manasbal Development Authority (WMDA) has prohibited littering, illegal waste dumping and discharge of untreated sewage into Manasbal Lake and its adjoining water channels, warning of penal action against violators.
In a public notice, the authority directed residents, shopkeepers, restaurant owners, commercial establishments and institutions within its jurisdiction to comply with prescribed solid and liquid waste management guidelines.
The authority has introduced a door-to-door solid waste collection system and directed households and commercial establishments to hand over daily waste to designated sanitation workers and authorised collection vehicles of the Rural Development Department, Block Safapora, at notified times and locations.
Segregation of waste at source has been made mandatory, with generators required to separate wet and biodegradable waste from dry and non-biodegradable waste. Mixing of segregated waste has been prohibited.
The notice also bans dumping of garbage, plastic, polythene and construction debris on roads, footpaths, open spaces, drains, parks, tourist spots and the lake periphery. Open burning of garbage and other solid waste has also been prohibited.
Shopkeepers, restaurant owners, vendors and other commercial establishments have been directed to maintain cleanliness within their premises and adjoining areas and make proper arrangements for waste storage, segregation and disposal. Institutions and event organisers have also been asked to ensure proper waste disposal and restore venues to a clean condition after public events.
To protect the lake’s ecosystem, the authority has strictly prohibited the discharge of untreated sewage, kitchen wastewater and other liquid waste into Manasbal Lake, adjoining drains, water channels and wetlands.
Households, hotels, restaurants and institutions have been directed to ensure proper collection, treatment and disposal of sewage and wastewater. They have also been asked to maintain septic tanks and soak pits and ensure that collected sewage and sludge are transported only to authorised disposal facilities.
The WMDA warned that violations would invite action under the Jammu and Kashmir Development Act, Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and other applicable laws. Action could include fines, penalties, notices and legal proceedings before competent authorities.
Officials and sanitation staff have been directed to monitor compliance and report violations for necessary action.
The authority said public cooperation was essential to protect Manasbal Lake, safeguard public health and maintain the area’s ecological balance and tourism potential.
