Abbottabad: Additional Secretary of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Forests, Wildlife, Environment and Climate Change Department, Syed Habib-ul-Hasan Gilani, on Friday said that forests and wildlife are invaluable natural assets and their protection is a shared responsibility of every citizen.
He expressed these views during a visit to the Shimla Hill Wildlife Display Centre in Abbottabad, where he was accompanied by the Conservator of Wildlife Abbottabad and the District Forest Officer (Wildlife).
During the visit, officials briefed him on the centre’s management, ongoing wildlife conservation initiatives and operational challenges.
Gilani appreciated the centre’s administration, cleanliness and maintenance, stressing that the conservation of wildlife and their natural habitats is essential for maintaining ecological balance. He said the department is continuing practical measures to protect wildlife, improve animal care and promote environmental sustainability, adding that wildlife display centres play a vital role in creating awareness, particularly among the younger generation.
Highlighting the importance of the ongoing Monsoon Tree Plantation Campaign, he said tree plantation is an effective way to improve the environment, mitigate the impacts of climate change and restore safe habitats for wildlife. He urged all stakeholders to contribute towards making the campaign a success.
Later, the Additional Secretary planted a sapling at the Shimla Hill Wildlife Display Centre as part of the Monsoon Tree Plantation Campaign and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to environmental conservation and afforestation efforts