Jammu, July 27 (KNS): In a significant boost to eco-tourism and conservation efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, Minister for Forest, Ecology & Environment, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Sunday inaugurated the newly constructed Eco-Stop Building at the Gharana Wetland in Jammu district.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister reaffirmed the Omar Abdullah-led Government’s commitment to safeguarding the Union Territory’s fragile ecological systems and promoting sustainable tourism. He described Gharana Wetland as a “living, breathing symbol of ecological balance and natural heritage,” and called for collective action from all sections of society to preserve such vital ecosystems.

“The preservation of wetlands like Gharana is not optional—it is our shared, non-negotiable responsibility,” Rana said, adding that these natural habitats play a vital role in biodiversity conservation, water regulation, and climate change mitigation.

Highlighting Gharana’s global ecological relevance as an Important Bird Area (IBA), the Minister pointed to the annual arrival of migratory birds, including the iconic Bar-headed Goose from Central Asia. “These winged visitors connect us to global ecological networks and remind us of the interconnectedness of nature,” he noted.

Rana lauded the Wildlife Protection Department for creating visitor-friendly infrastructure such as tensile sheds, viewing decks, seating areas, and educational signage, terming it a “forward-looking approach” to make the wetland more accessible to tourists, students, and researchers alike.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

He further emphasized the need for adopting sustainable eco-tourism models that not only conserve the ecological integrity of the site but also support local livelihoods. “Our vision is to make Gharana a model eco-tourism destination that inspires environmental consciousness and uplifts surrounding communities,” he stated.

The Minister extended his appreciation to departmental officials, local communities, and stakeholders for their continued dedication in conserving what he termed an “ecological jewel.”

Calling for intensified community-based conservation strategies, Rana urged officers of the Forest Department to involve local stakeholders more actively in protection, monitoring, and eco-tourism initiatives. He also appealed to citizens, academic institutions, and the youth to actively participate in the preservation of Gharana Wetland for future generations.

Prominent among those present at the event were Chairperson DDC Jammu Bharat Bhushan, MLA Suchetgarh Garu Ram Bhagat, DDC Member Taranjit Singh Tony, PCCF & HoFF Suresh Kumar Gupta, PCCF (Wildlife) Sarvesh Rai, and other senior officials of the Forest Department.(KNS)