What is dal lake?

Dal Lake

Dal Lake is a prominent lake in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It's an urban lake, which is integral to tourism and recreation in Kashmir and is popularly known as "Jewel in the crown of Kashmir" or "Srinagar's Jewel".

  • Features: The lake is known for its beautiful houseboats, floating gardens (or Rad in Kashmiri), and markets. The floating gardens, locally called "Rad," are particularly interesting as they are made from strips of reeds, earth, and manure, and they float on the lake.

  • Geography: The lake encompasses an area of about 18 square kilometers. It is a shallow lake, with a maximum depth of about 6 meters.

  • Significance: Dal Lake is not only a major tourist attraction but also a vital source of livelihood for many locals. The lake provides opportunities for fishing, harvesting aquatic plants, and tourism-related activities. The vegetable gardens provide fresh produce for the region.

  • Environmental Concerns: Dal Lake is facing several environmental challenges including pollution from sewage and other sources, encroachment, and weed infestation. These issues are posing a threat to the lake's ecosystem and overall beauty. Conservation efforts are underway to address these concerns.