CCF Stresses Community Role in Forest Protection During Mankote Visit; Warns Against Encroachments and Forest Fires

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

ALTAF HUSSAIN 

POONCH, JUNE 15:– Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Dr. V.S. Senthil Kumar (IFS) on Monday called for greater public participation in forest conservation and sought active cooperation from local communities in preventing forest fires during an extensive inspection of Forest Department works in Mankote area of Poonch district.

Accompanied by Conservator of Forests Satpal Pakhri and senior departmental officers, Dr. Kumar reviewed ongoing forest protection measures, developmental projects, afforestation activities, and boundary demarcation works being carried out in the region.

Addressing officers and field staff, the CCF emphasized that forests are a vital natural resource and their protection cannot be achieved without the support of local residents. He urged Panchayati Raj Institutions, community leaders, and citizens to work closely with the Forest Department in safeguarding forest wealth and reporting any illegal activities.

Expressing concern over recurring forest fire incidents, Dr. Kumar directed field formations to intensify monitoring in vulnerable areas and strengthen awareness campaigns about the environmental damage caused by fires. He warned that strict legal action would be taken against individuals found responsible for causing forest fires, whether deliberately or through negligence.

The CCF also reviewed the status of forest land protection and instructed officers to maintain constant vigilance against encroachments. He stressed the importance of timely detection, proper documentation, and legal action in cases involving unauthorized occupation of forest land.

During the visit, Dr. Kumar inspected ongoing infrastructure works, including facilities at the Forest Rest House Mankote, and directed officials to ensure quality execution and timely completion of all projects. He also reviewed forest boundary demarcation works and called for speedy completion of pending installations of boundary pillars to strengthen protection of government forest land.

Highlighting the need for accountability in public works, the Chief Conservator directed officers to closely monitor contractors and ensure adherence to approved timelines and quality standards. He said delays or substandard work would attract appropriate action under existing rules and contractual provisions.

The review meeting also covered wildlife conservation initiatives, afforestation programmes, strengthening of field infrastructure, and operational preparedness of frontline staff. Appreciating the efforts of forest personnel working in challenging conditions, Dr. Kumar urged them to continue their duties with dedication and professionalism.
The visit concluded with directions to strengthen enforcement mechanisms, expedite pending developmental works, and adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards forest encroachments, illegal activities, and forest fire offences across the region.