Srinagar, Apr 22:  On Earth Day, Vice Chancellor of Kashmir  University, Prof Talat Ahmad on Sunday declared Kashmir University as no-smoking  and polythene free zone.
 “University by all means has to be a model for the society and if we lead, people will automatically follow. Kashmir University will from today be a no-smoking zone. There would be no use of polythene in the campus. Those violating the ban will be dealt as per the law,” said Prof Talat in his presidential address at the inaugural event  at Ghandi Bhawan on occasion of International Earth Day.
 The programme was organized by department of geology and geophysics and student welfare department.
 Prof  Shakil A Romshoo said the reckless exploitation of land and water resources in the region was putting tremendous strain on the sustainability of earth resources. 
 A KU PRO statement quoting Prof Romshoo as saying that the issues like water shortages, water pollution, recession of snow and glacier resources, deforestation and inadequate energy underlie other challenges that face and perplex us.
 Dean physical and material sciences Prof Khaliq uz Zaman said Jammu and Kashmir once famous for its pristine water resources and lush green forests, is facing rapid deterioration of these  resources with adverse and serious consequences to both the ecology and the economy.
 Dean Students Welfare, Prof Neelofer Khan said: “Global warming is a global issue and we in J&K are also facing lots of environmental issues.”
 Dr Rakesh Chandra  faculty department of geology and geophysics presented vote of thanks.

Lastupdate on : Sun, 22 Apr 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sun, 22 Apr 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 IST