Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 15: Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar today visited the Gharana Wetland Conservation Reserve, R.S Pura and reviewed the progress on ongoing developmental works there.
During the visit, the Advisor took a detailed round of the wetland and took onspot assessment of all the ongoing construction works.
Interacting with the officers during the visit, Advisor Bhatnagar remarked that in coming years this place will be developed into a popular bird sanctuary with all facilities and services to make it one of the most attractive tourist attractions of Jammu region. He added that it is our prime duty to maintain the integrity of wetlands as they form the main habitat for migratory as well as other bird species.
The Advisor directed the officers to complete the works on approach road, parking bay, chain link fencing drains as well as other facilities on time . “Utilities need to be provided to the local visitors as well tourists”, said Advisor.
Pertinently, the Gharana Wetland Conservation Reserve holds around 65 species of birds, among which around 20 are migratory bird species coming from Central Asia, Mongolia, Russia and other places. The most common birds which attract visitors are bar-headed geese, common teals, Indian moorhens, gadwalls, green shanks flocks, purple swamp-hens Bar-headed Goose, Northern Pintail, Northern Shoveler, Black-winged Stian, Grey Heron, White-breasted Ibis, Pied Kingfisher and Eurasian Wigeon, Woolly-necked Storks and other species.
During the sidelines of the visit, the Advisor also interacted with the Sarpanch as well as locals of the Gharana area and discussed with them the issues and concerns pertaining to their area.
While interacting with them, the Advisor highlighted that the Gharana Wetland’s surrounding villages will benefit from the eco-and-border tourism in the area. He also assured them that all of their genuine issues will be addressed on priority.
Meanwhile, Bhatnagar attended an impressive ‘Retreat Ceremony’ at Octrio Post of Border Security Force (BSF) at Suchetgarh, R.S Pura.
While speaking on the occasion, Advisor Bhatnagar said that ‘Retreat Ceremony’ has become a major attraction for the locals and tourists and large number of people are witnessing this remarkable event. He added that the enthusiasm of people at the event reflects the sense of National Pride among them and their love for our motherland and armed forces.
The Advisor remarked that after the J&K administration under Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha introduced ‘Retreat Ceremony’ at Suchetgarh, the tourism potential of place has been fully tapped and will lead to economic development He added that LG led administration is making constant efforts for Border area development as well as for inclusive growth and development of entire J&K and transforming the lives of people with novel initiatives.
On the occasion, Advisor Bhatnagar also interacted with BSF officers and Jawans. He commended and appreciated them for their valor and salutary services in maintaining the security and integrity of our motherland.
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