Speakers for Conservation of Neelum Valley

News Desk

Muzaffarabad: Speakers at a seminar urged the relevant authorities to take strict action to safeguard the Neelum Valley’s forests and natural resources as well as to promote sustainable tourism in this area, which is the largest hub of biological diversity.

The seminar was organised by the Forests Protection Council and Community Development Group of the Neelum Valley in connection with the 18th annual celebrations entitled ‘Jashan-e-Neelum’. The collaborating partners were the local municipal committee, the forest department and Water & Power Development Authority (WAPDA).

The speakers advocated curbing the timber mafia in order to safeguard the forests of the Neelum Valley and provide alternative fuel sources and environmentally friendly building materials. They added that an integrated solid waste management system will safeguard the valley’s pure, natural environment.

Pakistan Mountain Festival Founder Munir Ahmed further said that with the increasing trend of commercialization and potential tourism in the valley, the natural resources will be at stake, posing several threats. Therefore, the district stakeholders shall come forward to think about the conservation of the Neelam Valley, Munir further added.

Read More:https://thepenpk.com/taobat-a-nature-lovers-paradise/

Ahmed stressed the importance of developing an inclusive, sustainable development strategy through a participatory consultation process.

Neelum Valley Mayor Syed Tajammul Hussain Shah advised the communities to adopt a proactive stance in the preservation and conservation of the valley’s natural resources.

According to him, the assistance of the development partners will be crucial in enhancing the capabilities of the recently elected local administration members and supporting community-based governance models.

Conservator of Forests Mir Naseer stated that a joint platform of all stakeholders shall make decisions for the future development, conservation, and management of the forests that are a hub of the largest species and natural resources.

For inclusive development, Neelum District Founder Mufti Mansur urRehman suggested a platform for a community-government liaison forum. “We must encourage environmentally responsible and sustainable economic practises,” he added.