𝐊𝐮𝐩𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐭 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐄𝐜𝐨-𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐬 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐲

Kupwara, April 12: A meeting was held today at the Forest Headquarters Sheikhbagh Srinagar under the chairmanship of Irfan Rasool Wani, Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir, to discuss strategies for promoting eco-tourism in Bungus Valley, Kupwara. The session was attended by Irfan Ali Shah (Conservator of Forests, North Circle), Mir Mohammad Suliaman (District Chairperson, Biodiversity Management Committee Kupwara), Farooq Ahmad Baba (CEO, Lolab-Bangus-Drangyari Development Authority), and the DFOs of Langate and Kehmil.

The discussion focused on turning Bungus Valley into a model eco-tourism destination through community-driven and sustainable initiatives that protect the ecosystem while improving local livelihoods.

The officials considered identifying land outside the core Bungus bowl—particularly in Teepee, Nowgam, and Wadder—for eco-friendly accommodations that minimize environmental disruption and enhance tourist experience.

To support this goal, the CEO of LBDDA was tasked with designing a focused publicity campaign. The meeting also proposed building attractive entry gates on either side of the valley, similar to those in national parks, to help maintain its ecological balance.

Additionally, plans to develop pony tracks and regulate pony services were discussed, with responsibilities given to the DFOs and CEO LBDDA. Check posts will also be established at three main access points to keep the valley free from plastic and polythene.

Recognized for its unspoiled beauty and rich biodiversity, Bungus Valley is seen as a prime offbeat eco-tourism destination in Jammu & Kashmir. It was decided that the local Biodiversity Management Committee would take full charge of managing the eco-tourism initiative.