ISLAMABAD, April 22 (ABC): The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Department of Forests, Wildlife and Fisheries, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, organized a stakeholder consultation in Sudhnoti under the project “Sustainable Management of Natural Resources in Mountain Areas.”
The event gathered government officials, experts, and community representatives. They discussed environmental risks, vulnerabilities, and sustainable solutions for mountain ecosystems.
The consultation aimed to improve understanding of climate and land-related challenges. It also promoted evidence-based planning for sustainable natural resource management. The project is being implemented through FAO’s Mountain Partnership Secretariat with support from the Government of Italy.
Focus on climate risks and conservation
Divisional Forest Officer Sudhnoti Ihsan Ul Haq opened the session. He stressed the importance of conserving natural resources. He added that communities must protect forests and land for future generations.
Deputy Commissioner Sudhnoti Sardar Umar Farooq highlighted key challenges. He said the district has vast forest cover. However, it remains highly vulnerable to climate change.
He pointed out that population growth is increasing pressure on forests. In addition, reliance on fuel wood and timber is rising. Limited alternative energy sources also add to the problem. Moreover, landslides and unplanned development continue to affect the region.
He emphasized the need for plantation drives and forest conservation. At the same time, he appreciated the Forest Department’s reforestation efforts. He termed the consultation timely and assured full support for such initiatives.
Project goals and technical insights
FAO representative Wakas Awan introduced the project. He explained its focus on building institutional and technical capacity. He said the initiative aims to assess environmental and socio-economic vulnerabilities. In particular, it targets issues linked to climate change and land degradation.
Divisional Forest Officer Muzaffarabad Awais Javed delivered a technical presentation. He outlined key environmental hazards in the region. He also shared local mitigation strategies to reduce risks.
Community engagement and way forward
Participants joined an interactive discussion session. They shared local perspectives on environmental challenges. They also suggested practical solutions for sustainable land use.
The session included questionnaire-based data collection. This step will support subnational risk assessments and future planning.
Finally, the district administration and the Forest Department concluded the event with a vote of thanks. They reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable land use, ecosystem protection, and climate resilience in mountain areas.
