Pampore, March 29: A cleanliness and environmental awareness drive was successfully organised by One World Aid in the saffron fields of Munpora and Pampore, with the aim of preserving the ecological and cultural significance of the area, especially its world-famous saffron heritage.
During the drive, volunteers actively collected waste scattered across the saffron fields, which was later disposed of responsibly at designated dumping sites. The campaign focused not only on cleaning the area but also on creating awareness among local residents, farmers and youth about the importance of environmental responsibility, officials told Kashmir Convener.
Speaking on the occasion, Executive Member Faisal Bilal said that every citizen must play an active and responsible role in protecting their land. He said that whether it is saffron fields or any other natural resource, it belongs collectively to the people and must not be polluted.
He further said that saffron is not merely a crop, but a symbol of Pampore’s identity, pride and heritage. Referring to ongoing initiatives such as Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Polythene Free Jammu & Kashmir, he said such grassroots efforts help translate these missions into meaningful action on the ground.
Executive Member Irfan Ramzan said that waste accumulation in the saffron fields had increased after Eid celebrations. He said the main objective of the drive was to educate the public about maintaining cleanliness and protecting saffron land, which forms the very identity of Pampore.
He also underlined that religious teachings across traditions encourage people to respect nature, maintain environmental balance and preserve biodiversity.
Another Executive Member, Tanveer Ahmad Rather, welcomed the growing number of tourists visiting the region and acknowledged the positive impact of increased visibility and tourism. However, he appealed to visitors to act responsibly and avoid polluting the natural surroundings, saying that the preservation of such landscapes is a shared responsibility.
Other members, including Manpreet Singh and Shahid Ahmad, also addressed the gathering and stressed the need for environmental conservation through civic responsibility as well as moral and religious values.
The organisation expressed gratitude to all team members and volunteers, including Faizan Ahmad, Salik Ahmad and Baan Ahmad, whose efforts contributed to the success of the drive.
Locals appreciated the initiative and said such awareness campaigns are essential for protecting the saffron fields, which remain not only an economic asset but also a cultural treasure of the region.
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