DC Rajouri flags off Trekking Expedition to Pastures in Pir Panjal Ranges.

SHYAM SOOD
RAJOURI SEPTEMBER 14:--Under ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations, Rajesh Kumar Shavan, Deputy Commissioner (DC) on Tuesday flagged off a group of 250 youths, including women for a five-day trekking expedition to Dokhs (Pastures) of Peer Panjal from Rajouri and with base camp at Darhal.
To commemorate the 75th year of India’s Independence, Rajouri District Administration under ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations have organised several events and few will be held in the new future, including organising of ‘Border Mela’ at Seri village on October 5 & 6 in association with the civil society, tourism department and NGOs to promote the culture and tourism of the area.
A grand cultural festival was also organised at Rajouri in the month of August wherein the artists from the adjoining states and districts participated and was highly appreciated by the local public.
The trekking expedition has been organised in collaboration with Tourism Department & with an aim to explore the scenic treasure of Rajouri district and to offer opportunities to Nature Lovers and Trekkers to trek through lush green natural spots, high pasturelands, and picturesque moor of majestic Pir Panjal Ranges.
Pertinent to mention that initially the Trekking Expedition was organised up to Shakermarg & Seven Lakes in Girjin Valley, but reportedly due to security point of view the permission was given only for Dhokes (Pastures) in the Pir Pnajal Region where Nomads spend their summer along with their livestock.
“The objective of the trekking expedition is to promote national integration and imbibe a spirit of adventure in the youth, build self-confidence and enhance their awareness about the environment, local flora and fauna” said Rajesh Kumar Shavan DC.
He advised the trekkers to take full advantage of the trip and learn from each other by sharing their experience and knowledge about nature and places.
“Exchange of ideas in the lap of nature and experiencing adventure will help you in the overall character development and see the world more vividly,” DC said.
Adequate arrangements have been put in place for the smooth and successful conduct of the trekking expedition.
Trekkers will be provided vehicles from Rajouri to base camp at Darhal, They will be provided food, accommodation, medical aid by the organisers. Horses/ponies will be provided only to the injured and exhausted trekkers.
“For the first time, the trekkers from within and outside the district are going on an expedition to the Dokhs (Pastures) of the Peer Panjal” said DC.