A troubling development has struck Wular Lake, Asia’s second-largest freshwater lake, where hundreds of domestic geese have been found dead along the shoreline, sparking deep concern among local communities and environmentalists. As migratory birds begin arriving in Kashmir’s wetlands, the mass deaths have unsettled fishermen, whose livelihoods hinge on the lake’s health, and bird enthusiasts who treasure Wular’s unique biodiversity.
Locals in Saderkot Bala and other areas near Wular report that, over the past week, hundreds of geese—known locally as Anz—have perished in clusters along the lake’s banks. A fisherman from Saderkot Bala explained that he raises about 200 geese, usually selling them in winter as a crucial source of income. “This year, the sudden death of so many geese is a shock to us all,” he said. “We are extremely worried as it impacts both our livelihood and the environment.”
The fisherman, alongside other villagers, appealed to authorities to investigate the cause, urging immediate intervention to prevent further losses and address any potential health risks. Another resident, Advocate Mudasir, voiced concerns about Wular’s declining health. “The lake is deteriorating fast. Once Asia’s second-largest freshwater lake, it’s no longer safe even to touch its water,” he said, describing the lake’s degradation over time. Mudasir warned that this disturbing phenomenon comes just as migratory birds are returning to Wular Lake, adding an urgent dimension to the problem.
An official from Wular Lake’s conservation management confirmed that approximately 400 geese have been found dead in recent days. “Our teams have collected samples, and we’re awaiting test results to determine the cause. If necessary, we will implement immediate measures to contain the issue,” the official stated. The deaths come amid growing awareness of Wular’s ecological troubles, with pollution and habitat degradation adding to concerns about the lake’s future.
In a related development, a team from the Animal Husbandry Department in Bandipora conducted an initial assessment and identified signs of Ranikhet disease among the dead geese. Known as Newcastle disease, Ranikhet is a contagious viral infection that affects various bird species, particularly domestic fowl, causing respiratory distress and often leading to high mortality rates if not managed promptly.
Environmental advocates have called for a thorough investigation and immediate action to prevent the spread of infection, especially as migratory birds—a major seasonal attraction—are now arriving in Kashmir’s wetlands. The lake’s poor condition and declining water quality have long posed health hazards to both local communities and wildlife, prompting conservationists to urge for more robust environmental policies to safeguard this essential habitat.
As Kashmir’s wetlands brace for the arrival of migratory birds, the mass deaths at Wular Lake highlight the need for urgent conservation efforts to protect this vital ecosystem and restore the lake’s health for the benefit of local communities and wildlife alike.