Shri Rajeev Verma Flags Off Wildlife Week 2024 Trekking-cum-Walk for Wildlife at Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary
Chandigarh, October 2, 2024 – Shri Rajeev Verma, IAS, Adviser to the Administrator, UT Chandigarh, flagged off the Trekking-cum-Walk for Wildlife at the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary today, marking the commencement of Wildlife Week 2024 celebrations. The event, organized by the Department of Forests & Wildlife, Chandigarh, also symbolized the reopening of the sanctuary to the public after being closed for four months during the monsoon season.
The trek covered approximately 10 kilometers, starting from Nepli and culminating at Kansal Log Hut, passing through three hillocks and reaching a maximum height of 1500 feet. Around 2,000 people, including school children, the general public, and media representatives, took part in the trek. The participants were divided into groups of around 200, each guided by a Forest Official and a Group Leader, ensuring smooth coordination throughout the event.
At the conclusion of the trek in Kansal, a series of activities were organized to engage and educate the participants. These included a painting competition, skits, and quizzes, held in collaboration with the Environment and Health Departments. The aim of these activities was to further raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation, nature preservation, and the responsible use of natural resources.
Shri Rajeev Verma praised the efforts of the Forest Department, emphasizing that such activities play a crucial role in sensitizing the public about the need to protect wildlife. He encouraged continued participation in events that foster a conservation mindset among citizens.
Safety measures were a priority, with field staff from the Forest Department and medical facilities stationed along the trek route to ensure the well-being of participants. The event was commended by the attendees for its flawless execution and the emphasis placed on environmental stewardship.
Sh. T.C. Nautiyal, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests, UT Chandigarh, expressed his gratitude for the strong public participation, noting that it reflects growing awareness about the critical role wildlife plays in maintaining ecological balance and sustaining human life.
Other senior officials present at the event included Sh. Mandip Singh Brar, Home Secretary, Sh. Saurabh Kumar, IFS, Chief Wildlife Warden; Sh. Ajay Chagti, Secretary Health; and Ms. Anuradha S. Chagti, Secretary Industries
