Srinagar, Oct 10: Social activist Ahmad Ayaz has raised concerns over the alleged persistence of encroachment-related activity at Brari Nambal water body in Baba Demb, Srinagar, saying vehicles have again been seen parked at the site despite the recent removal of fencing following public outcry.
Ayaz said the removal of the fencing had created an impression that action would be taken against the alleged encroachment. However, he claimed that vehicles were again being parked at the location, while the filling associated with the encroachment remained unaddressed.
Questioning the administration’s response, Ayaz said the continued presence of vehicles and the alleged failure to remove the filling raised concerns about whether the water body was being adequately protected. He urged the concerned authorities to act before any further construction or activity could cause additional damage.
He stressed that protecting public assets, preventing encroachments and enforcing the law were responsibilities of the administration and relevant departments, and should not depend on repeated public complaints or pressure.
Ayaz called for the removal of the encroachment-related filling, restoration of the affected area and effective protection of Brari Nambal, warning that delays could make the damage difficult to reverse.
He also referred to the controversial construction along the Jhelum riverbank at Rajbagh while questioning whether authorities would respond decisively only after a major structure emerged.
“Public vigilance can support governance, but it cannot become a substitute for it,” Ayaz said, urging the administration to ensure accountability and safeguard the water body.