Geology and Mining Department Observes World Plantation Day with Afforestation Drive

Bilal Habib

Pampore, March 21: The Geology and Mining Department of Kashmir marked World Plantation Day by launching an afforestation drive to promote environmental conservation and sustainability. The event, held at the department’s office in Panderthan, Srinagar, saw active participation from officials, students, and employees.

Director of Geology and Mining J&K, Suraj Parkash Rukwal, graced the occasion as the chief guest, alongside Senior Drilling Engineer Kashmir Er Abdul Hamid Wani, Dr. Amarjeet Singh Sodhi (Ex-Deputy Director), and other dignitaries. The drive aimed to restore areas affected by mining activities and prevent soil erosion through large-scale tree plantations.

Students from Government Girls Secondary School Panderthan and Delhi Public School Athawajan delivered speeches highlighting the role of trees in combating climate change, conserving water, and maintaining biodiversity. The students, along with department employees, planted saplings at designated locations as a pledge to environmental protection.

Speaking on the occasion, Senior Drilling Engineer Kashmir emphasized the urgency of addressing deforestation, climate change, and land degradation caused by mining. He noted that the department has planted 1,000 trees on 10 kanals of land within its premises and plans to expand the initiative to other districts.

Highlighting the economic significance of mining, he acknowledged its environmental impact and stressed the department’s commitment to sustainable mining practices. A 1% royalty collected from mining activities is now being allocated for reforestation and soil conservation efforts. District Mineral Offices (DMOs) have been directed to collaborate with local communities, schools, and government agencies to ensure broader participation.

The Director of Geology and Mining, Suraj Parkash Rukwal, commended the efforts of employees and reiterated the department’s commitment to balancing economic development with environmental conservation. The initiative reflects the growing recognition of the need for sustainable practices to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.