The ignored fish pond in Sonamarg
By: Imran Raina
Nestled in the heart of the majestic Himalayas, the Fish Pond in Sonamarg in Ganderbal district has long been a symbol of serenity and natural splendour. For decades, it stood as a peaceful retreat for tourists and a point of pride for local residents.
Today, however, I write with a deep sense of concern and disappointment as this iconic landmark faces a serious environmental crisis.
Once a pristine and picturesque water body, the Fish Pond is now marred by alarming levels of neglect and pollution. What was once a vibrant attraction teeming with aquatic life and scenic beauty is fast deteriorating into a dumping ground?
A simple walk along its edges now reveals a distressing sight: heaps of plastic bags, discarded bottles, and other garbage both along the banks and floating within the water. The pollution has triggered an overgrowth of algae, turning the once-clear waters murky and lifeless.
Adding to this environmental decay is the visible neglect of the surrounding area. Construction debris lies unattended, walking paths are unmaintained, and there is a complete lack of basic waste management infrastructure. All these signs point to a systemic failure to preserve one of Sonamarg’s most cherished natural assets.
The consequences are profound. Not only does the current condition threaten aquatic life and the pond’s delicate ecosystem, but it also tarnishes the image of Sonamarg as a premier tourist destination.
Tourists expecting a tranquil, scenic experience are instead met with an eyesore that reflects poorly on local governance and environmental stewardship.
This situation stands in stark contrast to the stated mission of the Sonamarg Development Authority, which has repeatedly emphasized the importance of ecological preservation and sustainable tourism.
The current state of the Fish Pond clearly contradicts those goals, and immediate corrective action is urgently needed. Therefore, I humbly urge the concerned authorities to take the following actions:
Immediate Clean-up: Swift removal of all visible garbage, including plastics and construction waste, from the pond and its surroundings.
Regular Maintenance: Establishment of a maintenance schedule that includes frequent water testing, algae control, and landscape upkeep.
Infrastructure for Cleanliness: Installation of adequate waste bins and clear, informative signage urging visitors to maintain cleanliness.
Ecological Restoration: Reviving the pond’s natural health through the introduction of eco-friendly filtration methods, aquatic plant management, and possible restocking of fish species.
Community Involvement: Engaging local volunteers, schools, and NGOs in awareness campaigns and periodic clean-up drives to instil a sense of ownership and responsibility.
This is a call not just to the officials, but to every stakeholder who values Sonamarg’s natural charm. Let us not allow the Fish Pond to slip further into decay. With coordinated effort, this beloved site can once again reflect the beauty, pride, and environmental values that Sonamarg is known for.
Let the Fish Pond speak again — not through the silence of neglect, but through the harmony of revival.
(The author is a Teacher hailing from Kangan Ganderbal. He is a regular contributor to ‘Kashmir Vision’)
