Shopian, Apr 20: aSangaloo, once a pristine and glistening stream in south Kashmir’s Shopian district, is rapidly losing its sheen due to encroachment, pollution and official apathy.
The stream, which flows through the heart of the town, has shrunk to less than half its original width as a result of widespread encroachments. Once wide and gurgling with crystal-clear waters, it has now almost turned into a narrow, polluted channel, raising concerns among residents about its survival.
“It was once believed that its waters had curative properties. People from adjoining villages used to collect water from the stream, but now it has become unfit for consumption,” said MithaGatoo, a social activist from the district.
Over the years, the stream has also turned into a dumping site, with residents throwing household waste into it, further polluting the water body.
“It is very unfortunate that people themselves are polluting such a precious natural resource. This stream was part of our heritage, but today it is being treated like a drain,” Gatoo said.
He added that the degradation of the stream reflects both public negligence and lack of official intervention. “If timely measures had been taken, the situation would not have reached this level. There is no proper monitoring, no awareness, and no accountability,” he said.
The Jal Shakti Department has also been laying pipelines through sections of the stream over the past several years, further reducing its width. Residents say the pipes often obstruct the natural flow of water.
“Polythene and other waste materials get stuck in these pipes, blocking the flow and causing water to stagnate. This not only worsens pollution but also increases the risk of flooding during heavy rains,” Gatoo said.
He urged authorities to take immediate steps to restore the stream and prevent further damage. “There should be a complete ban on dumping waste into the stream. Encroachments must be removed, and the original width restored. If we continue to ignore this, we will lose this water body forever,” he warned.
Gatoo also stressed the need for public participation in conservation efforts. “People need to understand that this is their own resource. Without community involvement, no government effort alone can revive it,” he said.
Residents say the revival of Sangaloo is crucial not just for environmental reasons but also for preserving the town’s cultural and ecological identity.
