Budgam, April 5, 2025 – The Divisional Forest Officer of Budgam, in collaboration with local organisations, launched the Plastic Free Forests campaign today, aiming to safeguard Kashmir’s pristine forests from the growing threat of plastic pollution. The initiative, kickstarted in the lush Sitaharan forest area of Budgam, seeks to promote environmental conservation by eliminating single-use plastics and fostering community participation in preserving the region’s natural beauty. Keywords: Plastic Free Forests, DFO Budgam, Kashmir forests, plastic pollution, Sitaharan, environmental conservation, single-use plastics, community participation.
The campaign began with a large-scale awareness drive and cleanup activity, engaging students, volunteers, and local residents. Participants worked together to remove plastic waste from forest trails, emphasizing the harmful impact of litter on wildlife and ecosystems. The DFO highlighted the urgent need to protect Jammu and Kashmir’s forests, noting that plastic debris not only mars the scenic landscapes but also endangers flora and fauna. “Our forests are the lungs of Kashmir. Keeping them plastic-free is everyone’s responsibility,” the officer stated during the launch. Keywords: awareness drive, cleanup activity, students and volunteers, plastic waste, wildlife protection, forest ecosystems, Jammu and Kashmir.
Local organizations, including the RTI Movement, NLCO, and the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK), have lauded the initiative, pledging their support to expand the campaign across other forest areas in the district. The DFO announced plans for regular cleanup drives, installation of waste collection points, and educational workshops to encourage sustainable practices among tourists and locals alike. The campaign also aims to collaborate with schools to instill environmental consciousness in younger generations. Keywords: RTI Movement, NLCO, TAAK, regular cleanup drives, waste collection points, educational workshops, sustainable practices, environmental consciousness.
The Plastic Free Forests campaign aligns with broader efforts to combat climate change and preserve Kashmir’s biodiversity. By reducing plastic pollution, the initiative seeks to ensure that future generations can enjoy the Valley’s untouched natural splendour. Residents and visitors are encouraged to join the movement by adopting eco-friendly habits and reporting littering in forest areas. For more information on how to participate, contact the Budgam Forest Division office.