Ecology and conservation of Dal lake, Kashmir

Studies carried out on the physicochemical characteristics of water and sediments, biological features and nutrient dynamics of Dal Lake by various investigators are reviewed. The results indicate that the direct discharge of sewage from houseboats, reduction of plant cover in the catchment area, interruptions to the flow of water, human encroachments, increase in population within the catchment area, etc, have resulted in the deterioration of water quality, prolific growth of aquatic macrophytes and siltation. Based on the data available some measures are proposed for conservation of the lake's ecosystem.