Srinagar, Dec 19 (KNO): Over the years, Jammu and Kashmir has made significant strides in forest conservation and management, with nearly 48% of its total geographical area covered by forests.
According to official data accessed by news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the total forest area in the region spans 20,194 square kilometers, with forests occupying 50.97% of the Kashmir region's land and 45.89% in Jammu.
This focus on afforestation and preservation is reflected in the total forest area of J&K, which accounts for 47.8% of the entire region's geographical area, excluding areas under foreign occupation and the Ladakh Union Territory.
The forest area of J&K is classified into two primary categories: Coniferous (Soft Wood) and Non-Coniferous (Hard Wood).
The Coniferous forests make up 50.1% of the total forest area, with species such as Deodar (1,075 sq km), Chir (1,825 sq km), Kail (1,969 sq km), and Fir (3,401 sq km) forming the majority.
These forests play a critical role in the region's biodiversity and ecology. The Non-Coniferous forests, which include Un-commercial species, cover the remaining 49.9% of the forest area, contributing significantly to the region's rich vegetation.
A vital aspect of J&K's forest management strategy is the Protected Area Network (PAN), which spans 4,861.28 square kilometers. This network includes 4 National Parks, 14 Wildlife Sanctuaries, and 30 Conservation Reserves, which together serve as a sanctuary for the region's diverse wildlife.
The Protected Area Network is divided between Jammu and Kashmir regions, with Jammu having 20 protected areas, and Kashmir hosting 28 protected areas, comprising 13 Wildlife Sanctuaries, 8 Wildlife Reserves, and 14 Wetlands.
The protected areas in both regions form a critical part of conservation efforts, ensuring the preservation of species and ecosystems unique to this diverse region—(KNO)