Shopian, Jan 23: Authorities in Shopian have strategically installed signage at key locations to promote conservation of the Markhor and bolster the Apple farming in this southern district of Kashmir.
Officials revealed that the move is part of a comprehensive strategy directed by the Deputy Commissioner, aiming to raise awareness and instill a sense of pride and respect for these vital species.
The Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary in Shopian has been identified as one among two places in Jammu and Kashmir where Pir Panchal Markhor is found.
Kazinag National Park in Baramulla is the other place where this highly threatened world’s largest mountain goat is found.
The officials said that apple farming is the backbone of the economy for this Southern district known for growing high quality apples.
The officials informed Rising Kashmir for conservation and promotion of the animal and fruit species signage of The Markhor and The Apple have been installed at various prominent locations in the district.
Executive Officer, Municipal Committee ( MC) Shopian, Suhail Ahmad Malik, told Rising Kashmir that the signage has been installed at various locations including mini secretariat Arhama, near Talk Masjid in main town, near Aharbal Junction and Helipad in Chowgam.
“The installation of the signage has been going on for the past couple of days,” he said, adding the initiative has been taken on instructions of Deputy Commissioner Shopian.
He said that this initiative is in its initial phase and many more things will be added in accordance with the strategy designed by the Deputy Commissioner Shopian.
Gulzar Ahmad, a local resident of Shopian, said that installation of physical symbols of The Markhor and The Apple at important locations in the town will have a definite impact on the consciousness of local population.
“The signage will incite curiosity among the general public to gather information about importance and significance of these two species for the region,” he said, adding that in the long run this initiative will help in their conservation and promotion.
The authorities said they contemplated coming up with various signage patterns to give impetus to this initiative.
