Alligator weed posing threat to water bodies in Valley, say experts

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, February 3

Experts have called for taking steps to control the alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides), which they say is posing a threat to water bodies in the Valley.

“Alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) has recently invaded Kashmir and was first reported from Wullar Lake in 2008. The weed has now spread to other lakes and wetlands and is an emerging threat to our lakes and wetlands. There is an urgent need for an early control and eradication programme that would potentially keep alligator weed at the lowest possible level,” an official said after a programme held on the occasion of World Wetlands Day.

The programme was organised by Aquatic Ecosystem Consultants in collaboration with the district administration, Bandipora.

Aquatic Weed Biologist Ather Masoodi discussed the importance of wetlands and highlighted the ecosystem services of Wullar Lake and their vulnerabilities.

Masoodi said a maintenance control programme was the need of hour as rapid expansion of alligator weed would put into question the ecosystem services of Wullar Lake. A signature campaign “Save Wullar” was also initiated. District Development Commissioner, Bandipora, Shah Faisal presided over the function