Bandipora, Jan 25: Asia's largest freshwater lakes, is facing an unprecedented crisis. The lake's surroundings have been turned into an open dumping ground, threatening its very existence. Locals and authorities are at odds over who's responsible, with both sides pointing fingers.

"Wullar Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia. With time, the shrinkage happened, and the government thought to conserve it, but instead, it has been perturbed by locals who have made it an open dumping system," said Mohammad Ali Sofi, a retired principal.The impact of waste dumping is evident - intense stink, loss of aesthetic appeal, and a decline in the community's quality of life. "This area is and has been beautiful and can be a tourist destination, but both the locals and the concerned department have made it an open dumping system, making it difficult for us to enjoy the cricket," said Abdul Rasheed Bhat, a local resident.
Authorities claim they've tried to find solutions, but face resistance from locals. "Locals compelled us to provide dustbins. We even offered a relief scheme if they could make a pit in their lawns, but they denied it," said Abdul Rasheed Sofi, Secretary Panchayat.
The situation highlights the need for collective action to protect the environment. As authorities work towards finding a solution, locals must take responsibility for maintaining cleanliness. The fate of Wullar Lake serves as a warning - if we fail to act, the consequences will be dire.