‘Wetland Mitra’ volunteers to help preserve ecology in Lahaul-Spiti

Tribune News Service

Mandi, August 2
A one-day orientation and training workshop for the District Wetland Committee was held at Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti yesterday. Organised under the aegis of the Himachal Pradesh Council of Science, Technology and Environment (HIMCOSTE) and the state Wetland Authority, the event was presided over by Deputy Commissioner Rahul Kumar.
The workshop was aimed at expanding the identification of wetland lakes within the district, including Surajtal, Deepaktal and Sissu, along with primary wetland lake Chandratal.
Kumar highlighted the importance of local engagement in conservation efforts. He said ‘Wetland Mitra’ volunteers would be recruited, besides involving the local youth, mahila mandals and NGOs in awareness campaigns and conservation activities. The DC also emphasised the need for planting suitable vegetation around the lakes to enhance ecological stability.
Kumar outlined plans for developing ‘health cards’ for all district lakes and creating a comprehensive integrated management plan through lake assessments and stakeholder consultations.
The workshop included technical sessions by Ravi Sharma (HIMCOSTE), who discussed wetland lake objectives, and Kunal Bharat, Adviser for Forestry and Biodiversity, who elaborated on wetland management.
Senior Scientist Assistant Rishav Rana detailed on Save Wetland Campaign, while retired Divisional Forest Officer SK Guleria highlighted cultural and religious aspects of wetland conservation.