DFO Awantipora spearheads collaborative efforts to enhance biodiversity in strategic locations

PAMPORE: In a concerted effort to bolster the green cover in the region, the Forest Range Pampore recently spearheaded a significant series of plantation drives within various strategic locations.
These initiatives, undertaken in collaboration with key stakeholders, underscore the commitment of the Forest Department to environmental conservation and sustainability.
Under the visionary leadership of the Divisional Forest Officer, Awantipora Forest Division, Sajad Ahmad Bhat, and with the enthusiastic participation of notable personalities from Khonmoh and Pampore town, multiple plantation drives were executed with precision and dedication. Notable locations included the premises of the Khyber Cement Industry, Municipal Committee Pampore, and the Range Office Pampore.
During these events, a substantial number of saplings were meticulously planted, symbolizing a collective commitment to restoring and preserving our natural ecosystems. DFO Awantipora Sajad Ahmad Bhat, emphasizing the pivotal role of forests in maintaining ecological balance, urged all present to actively engage in such plantation drives to ensure a healthier environment for future generations. It is worth noting that many saplings were distributed among the public free of cost, encouraging widespread participation and ownership of the initiative, forest officials told Kashmir Reader.
The Director of Khyber Cement Industry, Riyaz Ahmad Trumboo, commended the commendable efforts of the Forest Department and its allied wings in augmenting forest cover, both within designated forest areas and beyond, through various initiatives. Such collaborations between the private sector and government entities are essential for fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and corporate social responsibility, he said
In conjunction with the World International Day of Forests, another massive plantation drive was conducted within the premises of the Municipal Committee Pampore, further highlighting the commitment of local authorities to environmental sustainability. Additionally, a cleanliness drive was organized at the Pampore Range Office, demonstrating a holistic approach to environmental conservation.
The Executive Officer of the Municipal Committee Pampore also extended appreciation for the efforts of the Forest Department in enhancing forest cover and biodiversity through various initiatives. Such recognition from local governance bodies underscores the importance of interagency collaboration in achieving shared environmental goals.
Furthermore, Range Officer Pampore, Mian Ishfaq Hussain, highlighted various government initiatives aimed at enhancing forest cover, including Her Gawoon Heryali, One Beat Guard One Village, Beti Ke Naam Pad Lagayai, and the J&K Green Drive. These programmes are integral components of broader efforts to preserve and expand our precious forest resources, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
The Forest Range Pampore reaffirms its commitment to continued environmental stewardship and looks forward to further collaboration with stakeholders to safeguard our natural heritage.

BILAL HABIB