Srinagar: Tourism Department Kashmir and Adventure Tour Operators Association of Kashmir ATOAK in association with J&K Mountaineering & Hiking Club (JKMHC), J&K Ski Mountaineering Association JKSMA and J&K Mountain Biking Association JKMBA is celebrating “International Mountain Day”(IMD) on 11th and 12th December, a statement issued by the ATOAK said.
The main aim of the event is to protect the mountain biodiversity and mountain products like tourism, glaciers, forests and wildlife etc the
The two day long celebrations will see a host of activities, including a seminar on Mountain Biodiversity, short films slide shows and presentations will be given by the eminent scholars and subject experts who are taking part in the seminar. Besides, some outdoor activities, like short mountain biking tours in Zaberwan hills, sport climbing at TRC Nowgam, first ever snow cycle slalom, ski mountaineering races at Gulmarg and some other awareness programs will be conducted during the two days long program.
According to the statement 11th December is designated as international mountain day by UNO, and every year different themes are chosen by FAO of UNO. This year the theme is “Mountain Biodiversity.
Gen Secretary ATOAK, Muhammad Yusuf, informed that some legendary adventurers will be awarded posthumously those include the great adventurer and Ex DG tourism Late Muhammad Ashraf, the adventure sports promoter Late Bashir Ahmad Damna and Extreme Cyclist Fazal Fayaz.

KR Desk