Climate change a big challenge in J-K: Forest official

Climate change is a "big challenge" in Jammu and Kashmir, and serious efforts are required to mitigate its effects, a senior forest official said here Wednesday.

Addressing a meeting convened to review the working of the Forest Department in Jammu region, state Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Suresh Chugh said protection and conservation of forests were the department's top priorities.

Removal of encroachment and reduction in forest damage were issues that need to be addressed in a time-bound manner, he said.

"Climate change is a big challenge that the state of Jammu and Kashmir is facing, and mitigating the effect of climate change is another area where the efforts are required," Chugh said.

Chugh asked all officers of the department to work with dedication and zeal, while warning them against any laxity.

"The Forest Department is 200 years old and has a legacy of disciplined working for management of forests on scientific lines, and that legacy and discipline has to be maintained in our working," he said.