Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, today chaired a meeting to review preparations for the WUCMA-centred Wullar Bird Watch Festival, scheduled between 9th-14th February, aimed at promoting eco-tourism and creating diversified livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The meeting was informed that all necessary instructions have been issued to the concerned departments. Eco-guides and homestays are in readiness, while students have been trained to support festival activities. It was also apprised that police verification of all stakeholders involved in the festival has been completed.
During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner said that a temporary market will be established for NRLM groups, Cooperative Societies and Fisheries to showcase local products including lotus stem and water chestnuts. Shikara rides will also be available for visitors.
Five prominent locations have been identified for festival activities, with reception centres and camps at Banyari and Nadihal, and stalls at S.K. Payeen and Watlab. The DC directed the constitution of a Rate Fixation Committee to finalize rates for eco-guides, shikara rides and fisheries-related services.
She also reviewed transport arrangements to ensure smooth movement during the festival. On the occasion, the DC stressed the importance of promoting sustainable tourism around Wullar Lake by highlighting its rich biodiversity and the seasonal arrival of migratory birds.
She emphasized that the Wullar Bird Watch Festival should not only enhance environmental awareness but also serve as a platform for generating sustainable and diversified livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The meeting was attended by Assistant Commissioner Development Bandipora, Coordinator WUCMA, District Information Officer Bandipora, Deputy Chief Education Officer Bandipora, Assistant Regional Transport Officer Bandipora, Chief Executive Officer Municipal Council Bandipora, Tehsildar Bandipora, District Programme Manager RLM Bandipora and other concerned officers.