Bird Festival-2023 celebrated with enthusiasm at Pampore

Pulwama : The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department in collaboration with Wildlife Conservation Fund (WCF), Kashmir Geographic Expeditions & Sanctuary Nature Foundation on Thursday organized “The Bird Festival 2023”, at Chatlam Wetland Reserve in Pampore, which is a rich habitat for migratory birds.

On the occasion, Shri Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, Chief Justice of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, graced the occasion as the chief guest.

Accompanied by Deputy Director of Tourism, mrs Taneesha, SSP Awantipora, and other officials, the Chief Justice, during his visit, explored the scenic Lalpora Wetland, & commended the diverse array of bird species inhabiting the wetland, highlighting the ecological significance of the region.

A notable feature of the festival was a painting competition organized for school children, wherein enthusiastic young artists showcased their creativity, capturing the essence of the wetland and its avian inhabitants through vibrant paintings.

The event witnessed active participation from students, local residents, and officials, fostering a sense of community engagement and environmental awareness, while it served as a platform to celebrate the rich biodiversity of the wetland while promoting the importance of conservation among the younger generation.

Meanwhile, team of students and teachers from Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Rainawari, Srinagar also joined the said Programme.

Reports said that, “the team was able to spot and identify several migratory birds & also learned about the challenges and threats, being faced by these birds, such as habitat loss, climate change, hunting, and pollution.”

They interacted with the experts and guides who shared their knowledge and experience of birdwatching and conservation.

The team also enjoyed the cultural and recreational activities that were part of the festival, such as Live Painting Competition, Art of photography, Nature walk to Chaltlam via Saffron Fields and Poetry Competition.

It was led by Irm Fatima, who expressed her sincere gratitude to Nadeem Qadri and his team for this gracious invitation & for making the festival possible and memorable.