CoF North Kashmir Tours Rafiabad Range, Unveils Key Initiatives for Biodiversity and Community Welfare

Jahangir Lolabi

Baramulla: Irfan Ali Shah (IFS), Conservator of Forests, North Kashmir Circle, on Sunday concluded an extensive tour of the Rafiabad Range within the Langate Forest Division, undertaking a comprehensive review of ongoing forestry development works and directing several pivotal initiatives aimed at bolstering biodiversity conservation, promoting ecotourism and enhancing local community welfare.

The primary focus of the tour was direct engagement with local communities through a series of public meetings and dedicated grievance redressal sessions in Hadipora, Ladua, Dharia and khamu areas. He also visited the historical Gurdwara Shaheed Marg at Satarna in Chatoosa forest and met various allegations from Sikh community and listened patiently to their grievances and immediately gave directions for their redressal.

The CoF North Kashmir said “My tour of the Rafiabad Range was profoundly enriching, primarily due to the invaluable interactions I had with our local communities.These public meetings are the cornerstone of effective governance. They allow us to move beyond conventional administrative processes and directly address the needs and concerns of the people who live in harmony with our forests. We are committed to ensuring that their voices are heard, their grievances are addressed swiftly, and their partnership remains central to our conservation and development efforts.”

During his visit, the Conservator conducted on-the-spot assessments and held detailed discussions with field staff and local stakeholders. He issued directives for the immediate establishment of Agri-Ecotourism Information Centre at Hadipora, Medicinal Plants Conservation Areas in the ecologically significant regions of Lariangan and Kitterdaji. He directed for upgradation of Medicinal plants centre at Khamu area. He also directed for establishment of Biodiversity Management Committees in all 44 Gram Panchayats of the Range and making them fully operational. This will help local people to reap benefits of Non Timber Forest Policy and help in income generation and livelihood improvement.

To boost ecotourism and provide enhanced recreational opportunities, the Conservator of Forests directed the development of new trek routes in the breathtaking Viji top, Mundaji, Bosian and Kitterdaji areas. He directed for preparation of DPRs for establishment of new Ecoparks in Larianagan, Daria and Kangroosa areas. and for promotion of home stay programs in collaboration with Tourism department.

Furthermore, plans were set in motion for the establishment of a dedicated Forest Rest Houses in Darian and Khamoh within Rafiabad Range to provide comfortable accommodation for visitors and further facilitate ecotourism in collaboration with Rural Development Department

In a move to address both public utility and wildlife habitat management, the Conservator of Forests emphasized the urgent need for the development of water harvesting structures in various areas and Amrit Sarovar sites in convergence with Rural Development Department. These structures will not only ensure improved water availability for local communities but also provide crucial water sources for wildlife, especially during dry spells, thereby contributing to habitat sustenance.

Focusing on rural economic upliftment, directives were issued for the sowing of improved varieties of fodder seeds to create dedicated fodder banks within viable Forest closures in collaboration with Agriculture Production Department. This initiative is expected to lead to better milk production from livestock and, consequently, an improved local economy for the farming communities.

Addressing the timber needs of the local populace, the Conservator directed an increase in the number of ‘Kashmir Notices’ under which timber is provided to Forest fringe people at subsidized rates. This measure aims to ensure equitable access to essential building materials. He further directed Forest Development Corporation (FDC )to make available the timber in all depots for the common citizens .and for setting up of a new timber depot in Daria, Khalu and in Hadipora area of Rafiabad Range.

Additionally, to cater to the daily needs of the residents, instructions were given for improving the supply of firewood during winters for local bona fide requirements, ensuring sustainable resource management alongside community well-being.

“Our forests are not just ecological treasures but also vital lifelines for our communities. The initiatives directed today in Rafiabad are a testament to our holistic approach – integrating conservation with sustainable development. By protecting our medicinal plants, promoting responsible ecotourism, ensuring water security, supporting local livelihoods through fodder banks, and streamlining timber and firewood supply, we are committed to fostering a harmonious relationship between the people and their natural environment in North Kashmir.”

During the tour CoF was accompanied by Ehjaj Ahmad, DFO Langate Forest Division, Javed Rahim, Deputy Director Forest Protection Force, Feroz Ahmad Range officer Rafiabad, personnel of Forest Protection Force, Forest block officers, NGO representatives, Community leaders among others.