Meri Maati Mera Desh’: Department of Geology and Mining, Kashmir organizes of awareness program

As a part of its campaign during the Azadi Ka Mahotsav fortnight programme of activities under theme “Meri Maati Mera Desh”, the Department of Geology and Mining, Kashmir Organizes a programme of awareness regarding preservation and development of Guryul Ravine Fossiliferous Zone as a Geo-Heritage site / park at Khanmoh, Srinagar on 05-08-2023.

The event was graced with the esteemed presence of Dr. Rashmi Singh (IAS), Administrative Secretary, Department of Mining, J&K and Prof. Vijay Lakshmi, a distinguished accadicition as a special guest.

The Department of Geology and Mining was represented by Director Mr. O. P. Bhagat, along with Joint Director Kashmir Nisar Ahmad Khawaja, with a team of dedicated geo scientists of the department.

It was indeed an honour to have Professor GM Bhat, an eminent geologist and former Head of the Geology Department at the University of Jammu, who presently serves as the Chief Advisor to The Nature University, as the resource person along with advocate Nadeem Qadri, Environmentalist for the event. Professor GM Bhat shared invaluable insights into the timeline and significance of the Permian-Triassic Fossil Park, with a particular emphasis on the Guryul Ravine Khanmoh.

The program witnessed wholehearted participation from PRI members, DDC counsellors, and enthusiastic involvement from the local civil society members, including the students from Satisar Educational Institute.

The program’s primary objective was to disseminate awareness about the Permian-Triassic Fossil site having potential of an international geo heritage site/park for promoting geo-tourism and geo-heritage. Joint Director Kashmir Nisar Ahmed Khwaja passionately highlighted the department’s unwavering commitment to transforming the Guryul Ravine into a prominent international fossil park. The initiative aims to benefit not only the local community but also attract tourists from all corners of the world, offering them recreational facilities and a unique opportunity to explore the geological history dating back 252 million years.
Dr. Singh was delighted to note such a special geo-scientific activity organised by the department besides acknowledging the overwhelming participation by the school children and local PRI’s. She while congratulating the department and the participants including local NGO assured all possible efforts from her side to establish allied infrastructure for the project. Advocate Nadeem Qadri, Environmentalist while presenting vote of thanks appreciated the commitment of department led by Dr. Rashmi Singh (IAS) for promotion of this world famous fossiliferous zone.

The Department of Geology and Mining remains resolute in its dedication to preserving and promoting the Permian-Triassic Fossil Park as a priceless geological and historical site for future generations to cherish and learn from.

For further updates and information, kindly visit the official website of Department of Geology and Mining website.