Rana calls for strict forest protection measures

Jammu : Minister for Forests, Ecology & Environment, Javed Ahmed Rana Tuesday convened a review meeting in Jammu to take stock of the Jammu’s environmental challenges and the progress of key forest and conservation initiatives.
Forest Conservators and Divisional Forest Officers attended the meeting, which focused on forest degradation, biodiversity loss and pollution concerns in Jammu division.
The Minister called for strict measures for forest conservation efforts in the region and urged enforcement agencies to adopt stricter monitoring and control mechanis
He also directed agencies to strictly monitor pollution levels, especially in areas near forests and water bodies.
During the meeting, concerns were also raised over soil erosion and landslides in hilly areas of Chenab Valley, Reasi, and Udhampur where fragile terrains are under pressure.
Officials presented ongoing afforestation and slope stabilization works, with the Minister urging scientific planning and better coordination with geotechnical experts.
The Minister also reviewed the progress under CAMPA and other plantation schemes while stressing the importance of survival rates and community involvement. He appreciated the growing role of local institutions and volunteers in forest drives and awareness campaigns.
Promoting eco-tourism was identified as a key opportunity for sustainable development, with a clear directive that all tourism efforts must protect natural habitats and involve local communities.
The Minister also underlined the need for increased environmental awareness, particularly among youth.
He praised outreach programmes in schools, villages, and the contribution of Van Mitras and NGOs in spreading environmental education and mobilizing local support.
Calling for stronger inter-departmental coordination, the Minister urged joint efforts from Rural Development, Tourism, PWD, Pollution Control Board, and Urban Local Bodies to address environmental issues comprehensively.