Kulgam, June 05: In an effort to promote environmental sustainability, the Special Forest Division Kulgam on Wednesday observed World Environment Day with a series of awareness
and ‘action-driven’ initiatives across the district, aligning with this year’s global theme, “Ending Plastic Pollution Globally.”
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Mohd Ashraf Katoo said that several ‘impactful’ activities were held throughout the day, witnessing active participation from students, locals, forest officials, and environmental volunteers.
“A mega plantation drive was conducted at various locations to help restore green cover and improve ecological balance,” he said.
The department also carried out anti-plastic drives in marketplaces, public places, and forest fringes. “These were aimed at collecting and disposing of plastic waste while discouraging the use of single-use plastics,” DFO Katoo said, adding, “Painting competitions were held among school students, who expressed their vision for a cleaner and greener planet.”
Range Officer Suhail Ahmad said awareness programmes focusing on plastic pollution, ecosystem restoration, and responsible consumer behaviour were held in collaboration with educational institutions and local NGOs.
“Participants also took Swachhta pledges, committing themselves to environmental cleanliness and a plastic-free lifestyle,” he added.
Meanwhile, in Damhal-Hanjipora, a joint event was organised by the D.H. Pora Forest Range, Government Degree College (GDC) D.H. Pora, and the Sub-District Office D.H. Pora to promote sustainable practices.
Range Officer D.H. Pora, Dr. Afshan Anjum Baba, said a seminar was conducted to highlight the environmental hazards of plastic use and encourage the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives. The session witnessed ‘enthusiastic’ participation from students, faculty, and officials.
She said that a plantation drive was also held on the college campus, where participants planted saplings to support afforestation efforts.
Later, the team visited the Forest Department’s Shehjar Nursery to review ongoing greening initiatives and discuss strategies for expanding afforestation efforts in the area.
