Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 31: Suresh Kumar Gupta, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) & Chief Wildlife Warden, J&K conducted four day tour of Marwah, Dachhan and Wadwan areas. During the visit to different places, he inspected the works taken up for conservation and protection of Kishtwar High Altitude National Park (KHANP) in the area. He laid down foundation stone of Range Office at Yurdoo (Marwah) which will be completed during this year.
He also distributed 86 Home Solar Lights among the locals of fringe villages of Kishtwar High Altitude National Park. The beneficiaries were from the villages of Kibbar, Sudnoo and Dund. Besides, 45 Solar Street Lights were also handed over to local PRI representatives of these villages. The solar lights were distributed under Eco-development component of Kishtwar High Altitude National Park.
Earlier, Department of Wildlife Protection also provided beehives and Home Stay Material to some villagers of fringe areas of Kishtwar High Altitude National Park with the help of local PRI representatives. During the visit of different sites and villages he also interacted with PRI representatives, locals and concerned officers.
Kishtwar High Altitude National Park with area of 2191.50 Sq. Kms is largest wildlife protected area of J&K and has rare and endangered species like snow leopard, brown bear, musk deer, Ibex, hangul etc. The National Park also supports variety of plants including aromatic plants and is abode to Famous Brahma peak and Brahamsar (High Altitude Lake).
During the visit, the Chief Wildlife Warden directed the staff to expedite the works of this area as working season in the area is short. He also solicited the participation and support of PRI representatives and locals in the protection and conservation efforts. He also interacted with group of local youth who were recently trained by the Department of Wildlife Protection as Eco-guides.
During the visit he was accompanied by Dr. Kumar M.K, Conservator of Forests, Mr. Majid Bashir, Wildlife Warden, Kishtwar, Range Officer Mr. Sajjad, Mr. Mir, Mr. Ganai and Foresters along with field staff.
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