Wular Lake, one of Asia's largest freshwater lakes located in Kashmir's Bandipora district, has been an integral part of my daily life and community. Once a thriving ecosystem, it now faces ecological challenges threatening both its biodiversity and the livelihoods of those who depend on it.

Historically, Wular Lake spanned about 157 square kilometers in 1911, but due to anthropogenic pressures, it has shrunk to around 86.71 square kilometers by 2007, with further reductions during winter. The depth has decreased from 14 meters to just 5.7 meters, mainly due to siltation and encroachments.

The repercussions extend beyond the ecosystem, deeply impacting fishing communities that have thrived nearby for generations. A study by Wetland International states the lake supports 32,000 families, including 2,300 fisher households. Over 8,000 fishermen earn a living from the lake, relying on its bounty for sustenance.

The lake's biodiversity, once home to native fish like Schizothorax (snow trout), has seen a sharp decline. Fish production dropped from over 10,000 tones in 1950 to under 1,500 tones recently.
Pollution significantly contributes to the lake's degradation. Sewage from nearby areas and security camps directly enters the lake, leading to eutrophication and spread of invasive species like Azolla. Additionally, planting over 2.1 million willow trees since 1961 has increased siltation, reducing water quality.

Sand extraction, legal and illegal, has changed the lake's topography, affecting fish habitats. Despite regulations, the demand for sand continues, impacting ecological balance.

The socio-economic impact on communities is severe. Fishermen spend more time on the lake with diminishing returns, forcing many to seek other livelihoods. In villages like Laharwalpora, children leave education to support families through labor-intensive work like sand extraction, with literacy rates as low as 25%.

Efforts to restore the lake are underway. The Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA) has initiated projects to remove silt, control invasive species, and regulate sand extraction. However, challenges persist, including the need for better waste management and stricter environmental laws.

Growing up by Wular Lake, witnessing its transformation has been personal and painful. This documentary project aims to highlight the intertwined fate of the lake and its people, stressing the need for sustainable interventions to preserve this vital ecosystem.