Use iron, steel and aluminium against wood, save environment in J

Srinagar, May 27 (UNI) Expressing concern over the degradation of environment, condition of water bodies and shrinking of forests in Jammu and Kashmir, the Environment Committee (EC) of Legislative Assembly (LA) has called for coordinated efforts to conserve the environment and maintaining the ecological balance in the state.

In order to save forests and meeting the timber requirements of consumers, the committee suggested introduction of iron, steel and aluminum in building construction to replace timber The committee opined that all out efforts should be made to preserve natural resources including water bodies and environment which are the most attracting features of the state for tourists from across the world.

The EC which met here today under the chairmanship National Conference (NC) member Dr Sheikh Mustaffa Kamal, discussed measures related to environment, pollution control and other allied issues on the subject and suggested various measures for preserving the environment.

The EC expressed concern over the degradation of environment, conditions of water bodies and shrinking of forests in the state.

It observed that despite efforts made by the government, there was room for further measures at various levels.

There was a great need to educate the masses for saving the environment and natural resources and government should launch vigorous campaigns through seminars and other forms involving school, colleges, NGOs, environmentalists and intellectuals,'' it said.

On the issue of shifting of Dal-dwellers from the world famous Lake, the EC asserted that government should frame a well-knit policy for rehabilitation of these people.

The government should identify a suitable place for them with all basic amenities as people living in Dal are engaged in the profession of growing vegetables.

UNI BAS AM RAI1329