Excelsior Correspondent
BANDIPORA, June 1: A four-day environmental carnival commenced on Saturday at Forest Campus Chitternar Bandipora to raise awareness about environmental conservation and promote sustainable practices among masses.
The carnival was inaugurated by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Shakeel Ul Rehman along with Conservator of Forests Eco Tourism Kashmir J&K, Irfan Ali Shah and other officers.
The inaugural day of the event featured a variety of activities, including cultural programmes and speeches by environmental experts, highlighting the importance of protecting the environment and promoting eco-friendly technologies.
The carnival held under the theme land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience also provided a platform for local organizations and departments to showcase their efforts in environmental sustainability.
Speaking on the occasion, the DC highlighted collaborative efforts to combat environmental challenges. He expressed his unwavering commitment to realizing the vision of sustainable eco-tourism in the district and to save the environment.
Emphasizing safeguarding ecosystems and protecting biodiversity, the DC stressed environmental conservation as a core component of desertification prevention and sustainable land management.
Conservator of Forests Eco Tourism J&K in his address lauded the efforts of DC Bandipora for ban on polythene use in Gurez. He highlighted various efforts and strategies required to promote Eco-tourism as a sustainable means of economic development.
Recognizing the immense potential and natural landscapes and biodiversity of Gurez, Irfan emphasized the importance of the value addition of medicinal plants available in Gurez. He also highlighted initiatives such as homestays as ways to promote sustainable tourism while fostering economic opportunities for local populations.
Speaking on the occasion, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Bandipora Sandeep Butt deliberated on proper land utilization and afforestation. He stressed the importance of individual responsibility and community engagement in effecting meaningful change.
Principal Kashmir Forest Training School, Davinder Pal Singh said that the aim of the program is to sensitize the younger generation regarding environmental issues.
Addressing the gathering, Executive Director Wildlife Conservation Fund and Environmental Lawyer, Nadeem Qadri highlighted challenges of plastic menace and effects of Single Use Plastic on human and aquatic life.
Earlier in his welcome address, Project Coordinator Water Management WUCMA, Altaf Hussain Denthoo highlighted significant economic consequences of over exploitation of land.
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