Shopian, September 11, 2026:Â Minister for Forest, Ecology & Environment, Javid Ahmad Rana Friday visited Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary to review the progress of ongoing conservation and ecotourism initiatives and assess the status of infrastructure development at identified ecotourism sites.
The Minister was received at Dongimarg by Wildlife Warden, Shopian, Sohail Ahmad Wagay, along with senior officers of the Wildlife Division, Territorial Forest Division and representatives of the local Panchayat.
During the visit, the Minister undertook an on-the-spot inspection of the sanctuary and proposed ecotourism sites and interacted with departmental officers and local representatives to take stock of the progress of various ongoing works. He issued a series of directions aimed at removing existing bottlenecks, expediting infrastructure development and strengthening conservation measures in the sanctuary.
Reviewing the ecotourism development at Sarbal, the Minister directed the concerned officers to remove all bottlenecks and accelerate the pace of work, stressing the need for time-bound completion of the identified infrastructure. He also directed that a revised and comprehensive ecotourism plan be prepared and submitted, incorporating components that had previously been omitted, including a Hobbit House at Pir Ki Gali, a Chowkidar Hut, parking facilities, river-site development, improvement of the approach road and landscaping and site-development works at Sarbal.
The Minister further directed the department to introduce a dedicated publicity and awareness component along the Mughal Road, including the installation of suitable hoardings, information panels and signboards to guide visitors and create greater awareness about the ecological significance, tourism potential and facilities available in the area.
Emphasising the importance of ecological restoration within the sanctuary, the Minister directed the preparation of a comprehensive plantation plan for denuded and erosion-affected hill slopes. He called for an experimental plantation plot to be raised as an initial step using locally available high-altitude species, including suitable shrubs, medicinal plants and herbs, with due consideration to the local ecology and natural character of the sanctuary. He also directed that plantations along both sides of the road constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) be taken up at the earliest.
The Minister emphasised that ecotourism development in Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary must be pursued in a manner that safeguards its ecological character, protects biodiversity and promotes sustainable use of the area’s natural resources. He stressed that infrastructure development should complement conservation efforts while also creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The Minister directed the Wildlife Division to fast-track compliance with all directions issued during the visit and submit periodic progress reports to ensure effective monitoring and timely implementation of the planned works.
Senior officers of the Wildlife Division, Territorial Forest Division and representatives of the local Panchayat were present during the visit.
