Wildlife Division, Department of Forests and Wildlife Preservation, Punjab organized trek-a-thon, a walk in the forests of Siswanon the occasion of World Wildlife Day on 3rd March. More than 300 people of various walks of life participated in this trekking event that were held on 3 different thematic tracks namely Sentience Path, Serenity Path and Nature Trail of 2.25 KM, 3 KM &5.5 KM respectively near Siswan Dam.Chief Guest of the event Mr R. K. Mishra, Chief Wildlife Warden expressed his gratitude to the participants and the villagers who came forward collectively for the common cause of conservation of nature and wildlife. “Siswanis an opportunity hub where one can learn about nature as well as the relationship and inter-dependency between human and mother nature”, he said.Dr Monika Yadav, DFO said that a trek-a-thon is a small effort to raise awareness about Wildlife and its importance. “This place is an interesting destination for nature lovers who are in the search of peace and tranquility or for those adventurous beings who are on the look-out for some nature exploration”, she said.The walks were directed by the nature experts and guides who disseminate the knowledge about floral and faunal Wildlife. These dense deciduous forests are safe-haven for many native species like Panthers, barking deer, golden jackals and their pugmarks can be seen on tracks made by these animals.
Participants were seen taking selfies and updating social media posts throughout the walks. The event saw not only youngsters but also retired officers and other respected senior citizens from nearby districts like Patiala, Ropar, Ludhiana and Chandigarhwho displayed their enthusiasm & passion and inspired the young generations to never stop loving nature.Mohali Range Officer Mr Mohan Singh said that Siswan always deserved special attention and recognition and he is delighted that department is making special efforts to promote the area. Mr Tejinder Singh and Satinder Pal who put in their efforts for the organization of the event said that they are hopeful that the Siswan and villages near-by will be benefitted with such steps and their efforts will be paid when people will talk more about Siswan and its rich ecosystem.The event was closed at the Mirzapur Rest House where the participants and volunteers were honored for their contributions by being a part of this selfless effort.Department motivated and facilitated the participants to come up with suggestions and experiences wherein manyindividuals and groups offered to assist the department help conserve the nature.Welcoming these volunteers, Dr Monika Yadav, DFO, Ropar announced the conception of a common platform which would help both department and common people to share concerns, ideas and suggestions. She also said that department is keen to hand over the ownership of the reserve to the community in hope of such more steps would be initiated by the people.She also thanked MrGurraman Preet Singh Bains, DFO Forest, Mohali, MrHimanshu, IAS, SDM, Kharar, Mr Husan Lal, Sarpanch, Mirzapur and Mr Sandeep, Siswanwho extended their support for the successful running of the trek event.