Srinagar, February 02: In a significant step towards wetland conservation and environmental awareness, Kashmir celebrated World Wetlands Day 2025 with a series of events, discussions, and community-driven initiatives.
The event, jointly organized by the Department of Wildlife Protection and the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA), saw enthusiastic participation from government officials, NGOs, conservationists, students, and the general public.
The celebrations commenced with a cycling rally from Hokersar Wetland to Naral Crossing and back, symbolizing sustainable mobility and environmental responsibility. Participants, including environmentalists and students, were provided with branded t-shirts and caps to promote the message of wetland protection.
One of the most notable events was a multi-stakeholder discussion involving officials, academicians, journalists, and conservationists, where they deliberated on challenges affecting wetlands, the necessity of stronger conservation policies, and strategies for sustainable wetland management. Key suggestions from this discussion will be incorporated into future conservation efforts.
As part of the celebrations, a week-long cleanliness drive was conducted across multiple wetlands, engaging volunteers, NGOs, and local communities in restoration activities.
Adding to the event’s highlights, a photography competition was organized in various wetland locations across Kashmir, drawing participation from birdwatchers and nature photographers. Their photographs beautifully captured Kashmir’s wetland biodiversity. The winners will be honored with trophies and certificates in a subsequent ceremony.
A significant moment of the event was an oath-taking ceremony led by renowned conservationist Nazir Benazir, during which participants pledged to protect wetlands, discourage pollution, and promote eco-friendly practices.
The event was attended by Rashid Yahya Naqash, Regional Wildlife Headquarters (Chief Guest), Owais Farooq, Coordinator of the Conservation and Management Authority, Altaf Hussain, Coordinator of the Wildlife Wetland Division, Kashmir, and Dr. Sheikh Gulam Rassool, a well-known RTI activist and conservationist.
Representatives from NGOs such as SRDE and Wildlife SOS, along with civil society members, journalists, academic professionals, volunteers, and the frontline staff of the Department of Wildlife Protection and WUCMA, actively engaged in discussions and awareness programs.
In his concluding remarks, Owais Farooq Mir expressed gratitude to all participants and emphasized that collaborative conservation efforts are key to the long-term sustainability of wetlands.
Coordinating the event, Altaf Hussain stated, “World Wetlands Day is a vital platform for raising awareness and fostering partnerships. The collective efforts of today will help protect these critical ecosystems for future generations.”
With strong public engagement and multi-stakeholder participation, World Wetlands Day 2025 in Kashmir successfully reinforced the urgent need for wetland conservation, environmental education, and sustainable ecological practices.
