Chief Conservator of Forests Reviews Forest Protection and Fire Preparedness in Kupwara

Kupwara : Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF), Kashmir Region, Irfan Rasool Wani, IFS, reviewed forest protection measures, fire preparedness, and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) in Kamraj and Kehmil Forest Divisions during a meeting at Nutnussa, Kupwara.

The CCF emphasized strengthening forest protection, curbing timber smuggling, conserving biodiversity, and ensuring strict enforcement of forest laws. He stressed enhanced coordination between Territorial Forest staff and Forest Protection Force units and directed intensified GPS-based foot patrolling in vulnerable forest areas.

Wani highlighted the successful eradication of illicit cannabis cultivation from Trimkukhun Top through sustained efforts of the Forest Department and civil administration. Appreciating the achievement, he directed ecological restoration of the area through plantation activities and exploration of its development as a Medicinal Plant Conservation Area (MPCA), owing to the abundance of Artemisia and other medicinal plant species.

Reviewing forest fire preparedness, the CCF called for strengthened surveillance, rapid response mechanisms, and active community participation to minimize fire incidents. During the visit, he also released the Forest Fire Action Plan of Kamraj Forest Division, a comprehensive framework for prevention, preparedness, emergency response, and public awareness regarding forest fires.

The CCF appreciated the dedication of field staff working under challenging conditions and urged them to remain vigilant and committed to sustainable forest management. He later visited Nagriwari Eco-Park and interacted with Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs), emphasizing the promotion of eco-tourism for sustainable livelihoods and community-based conservation.

Wani also inaugurated the “Van Suchna Kendra” at the Divisional Forest Office Complex, Zangli, aimed at facilitating public access to online Forest Department services and providing information to visitors and tourists.

Reiterating the Department’s commitment to scientific forest management, ecological conservation, and community participation, the CCF underscored the need for preparedness against climate-induced challenges and called for coordinated efforts to protect the region’s valuable forest resources.

The meeting was attended by Irfan Ali Shah, IFS, Conservator of Forests, North Circle; Divisional Forest Officers of Kamraj and Kehmil Forest Divisions; Deputy Directors of Gamma Units Nutnussa and Dedikoot; Range Officers; and Block Officers.