Langate, July 02 (KNS): The Conservator of Forests (CF) North Kashmir, Irfan Ali Shah (IFS) today concluded a comprehensive inspection of Langate Forest Division, aimed at reviewing ongoing forestry activities, assessing the immense potential for eco-tourism, and fostering deeper engagement with local communities and key stakeholders. The Conservator was accompanied by a delegation of senior officers from both the Forest Department and the Forest Protection Force, including Mr Ehjaj Pajwari, DFO Langate Forest Division, Mr Manzur Ahmad, Deputy Director Forest Protection Force, Mr Mohd Rafiq Range officer Mawar Langate Range , all Block Forest officers, representatives from Tribal communities, Environment NGOs etc underscoring the collaborative approach to forest management in the Forest Division.
The day commenced with a crucial meeting at Kralgund with the District Development Council (DDC) member and locals. The discussions at this gathering primarily revolved around the conceptualization and development of a proposed Eco-Park for the area. The CoF emphasized the importance of such a park in promoting environmental awareness, conservation, and providing recreational opportunities for both locals and tourists, while also exploring potential avenues for community participation in its establishment and future management.
The CoF conducted on-ground inspections of the Gundchubutra and Khudi forests. This detailed assessment allowed for a first-hand evaluation of the health of these vital forest blocks, ongoing conservation efforts, the efficacy of protective measures, and the identification of any areas requiring immediate intervention or enhanced management strategies. The CoF stressed on Forest regeneration efforts, protection against encroachment and overall ecological balance.
A significant highlight of the day was the engagement with local communities. The Conservator held a dedicated meeting with a Tribal delegation at Haril Forest Block. This interaction provided a crucial platform for the tribal representatives to articulate their perspectives, concerns, and traditional insights regarding forest management. The CF attentively listened to their grievances, ensuring that their traditional rights and the impact of Forest Rights Act and related policies on their livelihoods are duly considered in future planning and implementation. The Conservator reiterated the department's commitment to inclusive forest governance that respects and integrates indigenous knowledge.
The community outreach continued with a well-attended Forest Public Darbar at the Forest Rest House, Sanzipora. This open forum facilitated a direct and detailed interaction between the Conservator, the Honourable MLA Langate Sheikh Khurshid, DDC members and a broad spectrum of local stakeholders, including village elders, self-help groups, and environmental activists.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelThe Conservator of Forests patiently addressed a wide range of grievances, from issues related to timber availability for local use to concerns about human-wildlife conflict and the equitable distribution of forest resources. The Darbar served as a testament to the department's commitment to transparency and participatory decision-making in forest management.
The tour also extensively covered the burgeoning ecotourism sector within the Langate Forest Division. The Conservator visited picturesque ecotourism sites, including Mondal, Reshwari, and Pathwari. These visits included an in-depth discussion with the local stakeholders on a comprehensive ecotourism development plan for these areas. The conversation focused on strategies to enhance Eotourism infrastructure responsibly, promote sustainable Ecotourism practices, create local employment opportunities, and ensure that Ecotourism development directly benefits the local communities while preserving the fragile ecological balance of these pristine locations. Ideas for capacity building among local youth for tour guiding and hospitality services were also explored.Further a Nature Library and Cedrus Groove Selfie point was also dedicated to the public at Reshwari.
Towards the conclusion of the intensive tour, the Conservator conducted a thorough inspection of the Langate Forest Complex. This involved visiting various administrative offices within the complex to assess their functioning and efficiency. A particular focus was given to the nursery within the complex, where the Conservator reviewed the quality and variety of saplings being raised, which are crucial for afforestation and reforestation programs. The Conservator also took the opportunity to visit the well-maintained Chinar Park, acknowledging its importance as a green space for the local community.
In a concluding address to the departmental staff, the Conservator of Forests emphasized the critical importance of working with enhanced dedication and unwavering commitment towards the noble cause of forest conservation, protection, and sustainable development. The Conservator highlighted the challenges posed by climate change and illegal activities, urging the team to redouble their efforts.
Furthermore, the Conservator extended sincere gratitude to the local populace for their invaluable support and collaborative spirit in all forestry-based development initiatives, recognizing that public participation is paramount for the long-term success of any conservation endeavor. The CF expressed optimism that with continued synergy between the department and the communities, the forests of Langate would continue to thrive for generations to come.(KNS)