Chief Wildlife Warden launches Iconic wetlands week celebration at Surinsar

JAMMU: Iconic wetlands week being celebrated all over the country from 4th to 10th October under the aegis of “Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav” was launched at Surinsar by Chief Wildlife Warden J&K, Suresh Kumar Gupta.

In the programme 60 volunteers registered themselves as Wetland Mitras for Surinsar and Mansar lakes. A pledge was administered to Wetland Mitras for rendering selfless service for the conservation of wetlands.

The Chief Wildlife Warden, while speaking on the occasion, highlighted the importance of Surinsar and Mansar lakes which are part of the wildlife sanctuary and designated as the Ramsar Site of international importance. He spoke about the important role of Wetland Mitras, Panchayats and locals in conservation of Surinsar and Mansar lakes.

Dr. Neeraj Sharma from Institute of Mountain and Environment, informed the participants about various scientific aspects of Surinsar and Mansar lakes. Joginder Singh and Amit Sharma, DDC members and Sarpanches of the area also spoke on the occasion.

Dr. Kumar MK, Regional Wildlife Warden, Jammu rolled out week long activities to be held in Surinsar and Mansar lakes which includes Green walks, cleanliness drives, stakeholders meetings and painting/poster making competition for children. He appealed to the people to participate in the week-long programme for spreading awareness about conservation of Surinsar and Mansar lakes.

The programme was conducted by Vijay Kumar, Wildlife Warden, Kathua and attended by Sarpanches, local youth, students, research scholars from University of Jammu and common people.