SRINAGAR: In observance of Wildlife Week 2024, the Wildlife Protection Department of Central Division Srinagar has initiated a series of Swachhta (cleanliness) campaigns across key protected areas.
According to Kashmir Dot Com, these efforts aim to raise awareness about the significance of maintaining cleanliness in wildlife habitats and engage local communities in conservation initiatives.
“These activities were held at prominent Dachigam National Park, conservation reserves and sanctuaries, including Dachigam Nallah, Dara Conservation Reserve, Brane Conservation Reserve, Khrew/Khonmoh Conservation Reserve, Thajwas Wildlife Sanctuary, and Wangath Conservation Reserve,” Wildlife Department’s Central Division Srinagar said in a statement.
“The campaign witnessed participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including local communities, school students, staff members from various departments, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), all joining hands to ensure the preservation of these ecologically significant regions.”
“At Dachigam Nallah, participants included students from Darul-Uloom Kawasaria, New Theed, staff members of the Wildlife Protection Department, officials from the Forest Protection Force (FPF), representatives from Wildlife SOS, and local residents from the surrounding areas. Together, they worked to clean up litter and promote sustainable practices that support both wildlife and the environment,” they said.
“In the Khrew/Khonmoh Conservation Reserve, the campaign garnered significant support from NGOs like the Wildlife Conservation Fund (WCF), students from Government Middle School, Sakinar Khonmoh, local residents, and staff from both the Wildlife Protection Department and the Social Forestry Department. This collective effort was aimed at promoting a deeper understanding of the need for habitat cleanliness in this region, which is crucial for the wildlife residing there.
“Similarly, in Thajwas Wildlife Sanctuary and Wangath Conservation Reserve, the cleanup drives saw enthusiastic participation from various NGOs, students from local schools, and the concerned local communities.”
“These events not only fostered a sense of ownership among the locals but also aimed at inculcating the values of conservation and environmental stewardship in the younger generation.”
“The Swachhta campaigns were an integral part of the Wildlife Week 2024 celebrations and were designed to instill a spirit of responsibility toward the environment among the public. The efforts to clean these ecologically sensitive zones will go a long way in ensuring the protection of both the wildlife and the biodiversity of these regions.”
“Wildlife Week 2024, with its theme of “Wildlife Conservation through Coexistence”, continues to emphasize the critical role that communities play in conservation efforts. The week-long celebrations will include further activities aimed at promoting the importance of protecting our natural heritage,” they added in a statement. (KDC)
