Governor for urgent initiatives to tackle environmental challenges

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, June 24: N.N. Vohra, Governor, inaugurated an international conference on “Sustainable Resource Development in the Himalaya” at Leh, today. This conference has been organized by the Institute of Energy Research and Training (IERT) of the Jammu University in collaboration with the Geological Society of London.
Voicing serious concern about the grave consequences of the rapid depletion of ground water and receding glaciers, as a result of the world-wide phenomenon of Climate Change and Global Warming, the Governor stressed the need for well considered initiatives being immediately taken for tackling emerging environmental challenges which threaten the very survival of human existence on planet earth.
Recalling the devastating flash floods in Ladakh during 2010, the Governor observed that no more time can be lost in preserving our natural resources and ensuring that these are utilized in a manner which yields sustainable dividends.
The Governor suggested that every responsible individual and organisation should synergize efforts to sensitize one and all against the imminent dangers of over-exploitation of natural resources. He urged Governmental agencies, civil society and responsible citizens to work closely together for dealing with all environmental challenges.
The Governor hoped that the deliberations in the conference would engender practical recommendations and sound approaches for effectively dealing with the complex challenges of the fragile ecology of the Himalayas in general and Ladakh region in particular.
The Governor urged wide publicity of the outcomes of this conference and stressed an interdisciplinary approach towards tackling pressing environmental problems. He suggested that Universities, research organizations and industrial houses should come up with well researched recommendations for developing Ladakh as a model of Sustainable Resource Development which would demonstrate the best practices available all over the world.
Dr. Hakam M. AL Alamithe, Representative of Prince of Jordan, addressed the conference on water and sanitation issues. Prof. M.P.S Ishar, Vice Chancellor, Jammu University; David Shilston, former President, Geological Society of London; Nawang Rigzin Jora, Minister for Urban Development and Urban Local Bodies; and Jonathan Craig presented their views on the safeguarding of natural resources and their utilization in a sustainable manner.
Chewang Norphel, on the occasion, made a presentation on “Life in Ladakh”. Prof. G.M Bhat, Director, IERT read the welcome address and Juergen Thurow, Prof. of Geology, University College, London gave the vote of thanks.
Later, the Governor visited venue of the Poster Exhibition and interacted with the students whose posters had won prizes.
Rigzin Spalbar, Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC, Leh; Simrandeep Singh, Deputy Commissioner, Leh; Sunil Gupta, SSP, Leh; Dr. Trundup, President, Ladakh Buddhist Association; and Saif-ud-Din, religious head, Moin-ul-Islam, were among those present on the occasion.