CCF Kashmir Reviews Forest Conservation Efforts in Kamraj Division, Launches Winter Plantation Drive

Kupwara: Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Kashmir, Irfan Rasool Wani, IFS, on Tuesday conducted an extensive tour of the Kamraj Forest Division in Kupwara to assess the status of ongoing conservation initiatives and developmental activities aimed at protecting and rejuvenating the region’s rich forest cover.

The visit began with a detailed review meeting at the office of the Deputy Director, Headquarters Natnussa. The meeting was attended by the DFO Kamraj, Deputy Directors of Natnussa, Langate, and Kehmil, besides Range Officers of North Lolab, Machil, Kupwara, and Sopore. The CCF took a comprehensive review of field operations, emphasizing the need to strengthen ground-level vigilance to prevent illegal logging and ensure prompt action against forest offences.

Later, the CCF, accompanied by senior field officials, visited several forest compartments in Sogam and Chandigam areas of the Lolab Range. He inspected ongoing protection and afforestation works and appreciated the proactive efforts of the field staff in maintaining ecological balance in the region.

Marking the beginning of the winter afforestation season, Wani inaugurated the Winter Plantation Drive by planting a Deodar sapling in Compartment 18/SL. The event saw active participation from school students and members of the local community, symbolizing growing public engagement in forest conservation.

The CCF also visited the Forest Development Corporation (FDC) Transit Depot at Compartment 25/SL to review timber stock management and transportation records. At the Forest Nursery in Chandigam, he directed officers to raise tall seedlings of diverse native species and ensure a steady supply of planting stock for upcoming drives. He further instructed that nursery infrastructure be modernized with improved irrigation and maintenance facilities.

During the visit, Wani released a booklet titled “The Enchanting Forests of Lolab Valley”, highlighting the biodiversity and scenic richness of the region.

Before concluding his tour, the CCF inspected the newly constructed DFO residence at Zangli Campus and the Inspection Hut of the Social Forestry Department, directing officials to expedite the remaining works for early operationalization.

The CCF was accompanied by DFO Kamraj Owais Mir, DFO Social Forestry Bilal Mir, DDs FPF Natnussa, Langate, and Kehmil, and Range Officers of Kamraj Division, along with Assistant Directors of FPF Kupwara.