Kulgam, Dec 05: Biswajit Kumar (B K) Singh, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force (HoFF) J&K, said on Thursday that the forest department has successfully increased forest cover in the region by approximately 24 square kilometres over the past five years.
During his visit to the Special Forest Division Kulgam, Singh inaugurated the Nagar Watka Park in Adigantoo. He expressed appreciation for the dedication of his team. “I congratulate my staff and all the officers. Through our scientific evaluations, we have measured an increase of 24 square kilometres in forest cover—not forest land, but forest cover as per Forest Survey Report 2023,” he said.
Singh added, “There has been a significant increase in conifer plantations, including species like Deodar, Kail, and Fir. Their survival rates are commendable, reflecting the hard work and commitment of our staff.”
PCCF & HoFF said the protection measures have improved and the damage levels the department faced in 2010 and 2012 are no longer the same. While challenges like smuggling persist, their scale has been significantly controlled. However, encroachment remains a concern. Demarcation of forest land is essential to secure it, he said.
“We are engaging the public in plantation drives, particularly through initiatives like the JK Drive. We distribute saplings and encourage plantations in villages to foster a sense of connection with the forests,” he said, adding that it is important to involve the community in conservation efforts.
Addressing infrastructure improvements, Singh said, “Staff quarters, rest houses, guest houses, and huts should be well-maintained. We are exploring ways to ensure this—whether through government budgets or shared resources. These facilities should offer an enjoyable experience for visitors while being sustainably maintained.”
On the issue of forest fires, PCCF & HoFF said that Jammu and Kashmir performs well below the national average in terms of fire incidents. “Timely corrections, prompt information sharing, and quick staff response have made forest fires manageable here,” he added.
PCCF was accompanied by CCF Kashmir Irfan Rasool Wani, CF South Dr. Arshdeep Singh, DFO Kulgam Mohd Ashraf Katoo and other officers of sister wings.
