SRINAGAR: To mark Gandhi Jayanti 2025, the J&K Dragon Boat Association (JKDBA) on Thursday organised a Cleanliness Drive in the world famous Dal Lake, reaffirming its commitment to environmental protection and encouraging community participation in preserving this iconic water body.
Farooq Ahmad Shah, Hon’ble MLA Gulmarg, was the Chief Guest on the occasion. He flagged off the Dragon Boats to formally launch the drive. Speaking to media persons, he lauded the efforts of JKDBA and assured his full support in promoting dragon boating, as a sport in Jammu & Kashmir, so that it becomes accessible to all sections of society and helps produce national and international medal winners in the future.
Among those present were M.S. Punoo (IPS Retd.), President JKDBA, Er. Aamir Ali, Senior Vice President JKDBA, and Er. Muzamil Rafiqi, Superintending Engineer LCMA, besides office bearers of JKDBA, Farooq Ahmad Bhat Coach, Zain ul Abidin, Gold Medalist, students, media representatives and local enthusiasts.
The participants, equipped with gloves and biodegradable bags, collected plastic waste and other debris from the lakefront and adjoining areas, sending out a strong message of environmental conservation, collective responsibility, and sustainable tourism.
JKDBA announced that similar cleanliness drives will be organised regularly and urged citizens to join hands, in keeping Dal Lake clean and beautiful.