Archive · 16 Aug 2025
Lotus Bloom Could Boost Kashmir's Green Economy Through Lake Revival
Imagine a beautiful lake called Wular in Kashmir that has been struggling.
But now, pretty pink lotus flowers are growing there again after a long time!
This is great news because the stems of the lotus are a special food that people love to eat.
The return of the lotus means the lake is getting healthier, thanks to some cleaning efforts.
This also gives the local fishermen a chance to earn more money by selling the lotus stems.
It's a good example of how taking care of nature can help people and the economy.
Lotus flowers have reappeared in Wular Lake after nearly 30 years, sparking hope for the local fishing community.
The resurgence of lotus is attributed to recent dredging efforts by the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA).
The edible lotus stem, 'nadru,' is a prized ingredient in Kashmiri cuisine and is expected to boost fishermen's incomes.
Wular Lake, a crucial source of fish and a Ramsar wetland, has been shrinking due to siltation and neglect.
Experts see nadru cultivation as a sustainable livelihood option, potentially boosting Kashmir's green economy.
- Who
- Local fishermen and the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA).
- What
- Lotus flowers have reappeared in Wular Lake, potentially boosting the local economy through 'nadru' harvesting.
- When
- The lotus flowers reappeared this summer after nearly 30 years.
- Where
- Wular Lake in Kashmir.
- Why
- The dredging efforts and the return of lotus blooms are expected to improve the lake's ecological balance and boost the local economy.
Current Challenges and Threats to Wular Lake
Restoration and Economic Opportunity
Challenges
Current Challenges and Threats to Wular Lake
Pollution, mining, dam construction and official neglect
Restoration and Economic Opportunity
Focused restoration and participatory conservation
- Lake Location
- Wular Lake, Kashmir
- Lotus Absence
- Nearly 30 years
- Lotus Stem Name
- Nadru
- Primary Income Source
- Fishing and water chestnut harvesting
- Lake Area Reduction
- From approx. 89.6 sq km in 1911 to 15.7 sq km by 2013
- Dredging Effort
- 7.9 million cubic meters of silt removed