Kupwara April 12 (KNS): In order to harness the eco-tourism potential of the scenic Bungus Valley in Kupwara District, a meeting was held today under the chairmanship of Irfan Rasool Wani, Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir, at Forest Headquarters Sheikhbagh Srinagar. The meeting was attended by Irfan Ali Shah, Conservator of Forests, North Circle, Mir Mohd Suliaman, District Chairperson, Biodiversity Management Committee, Kupwara, Farooq Ahmad Baba, CEO Lolab-Bangus- Drangyari Development Authority (LBDDA), DFO Langate and DFO Kehmil.
The meeting focused on developing Bungus Valley as a model eco-tourism destination through sustainable, community-oriented strategies that emphasize ecological conservation, responsible tourism, and improved livelihoods for local communities.
Key issues discussed during the meeting included the identification of suitable land parcels outside the main Bungus bowl particularly in Teepee, Nowgam, and Wadder for the creation of eco-friendly accommodations ensuring minimal ecological disturbance while enhancing visitor experience.
Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel0pt;line-height:107%">To strengthen the eco-tourism framework, the meeting underscored the need for comprehensive publicity and promotion, with the CEO of LBDDA entrusted with developing a targeted outreach strategy. The establishment of aesthetically designed entry gates on both sides of the valley, modelled on those found in national parks was also decided to be established to preserve ecological integrity of Bangus Valley.
Further, the development of pony tracks and regulation of pony services was discussed in detail, with specific responsibilities assigned to the Divisional Forest Officer and the CEO of LBDDA. It was also proposed to establish check posts at three strategic entry points to ensure that Bungus remains plastic and polythene- free.
Bungus Valley, with its pristine landscapes and rich biodiversity, offers immense potential to emerge as a flagship off beat destination for eco-tourism in Jammu & Kashmir. The meeting decided to engage local Biodiversity Management Committee to entirely manage eco tourism initiative in Bangus Valley.(KNS)