Islamabad (Anantnag), Dec 11: To mark the International Mountain Day, Al Sarwat Foundation in collaboration with Al Ahad College of Higher Education today organized a function here. Al Sarwat Students Coordination for Environmental Planning (ASSCEP- a non-governmental organization) also supported the programme.
 The function was presided over by District Development Commissioner (DDC), Islamabad (Anantnag), Farooq Ahmad Shah.
 Shah in his address impressed upon the participants to discourage the use of polythene which he said will be a big step towards the safe environment.
 Shah, who was the chief guest on the occasion, lauded the efforts of the Foundation and stressed the need for preserving the rich natural heritage of mountains in the Kashmir valley.
 While highlighting the importance of the day Shah said: “The international mountain day is observed to understand the issues related to mountains and their degradation because of different environmental factors and human activity.”
 The DDC said that Kashmir being called as mountain valley needs specific attention and it can be explored as the best attraction for mountain lovers all over the globe and this can result in more adventure sports activity.”
 Other speakers on the occasion included Prof. (Dr.) Yasin Ahmad Shah; Principal Government Degree College Anantnag. Col Verinder Singh Principal Jawaharlal Institute of Mountaineering & Winter Sports. Pahalgam;  writer Zahid Mukhtar, renowned trekker & hiker Atta Muhammad Mir; Chairman Muhammadan Mountaineering Club Islamabad (Anantnag) and Abdul Bari of Glacier Mountaineering Club Islamabad (Anantnag).
 The message of noted columnist Dr Ashraf Beg sent from United States of America was read on the occasion.
 The speakers stressed the need to preserve & protect the Mountains in the larger interests of the humanity and the posterity. They also showed their concern on the melting of Glaciers at an alarming rate.

Lastupdate on : Tue, 11 Dec 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Tue, 11 Dec 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:00:00 IST