JAMMU, Sep 4: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has sought urgent intervention of the Chief Secretary, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, for the protection and conservation of the Guryul Ravine, a site of exceptional geological and palaeontological importance recognised by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) as a Geoheritage Site of National Importance.
In a formal communication to the Chief Secretary, EPG has sought an action-taken report on steps initiated by the Government following the GSI’s communication dated December 17, 2025, regarding the required notification and conservation of the Guryul-Khunmoh-Mandekpal fossil landscape.
EPG also referred to the GSI’s August 2026 communication, which recorded that a joint inspection by the GSI and District Administration had been conducted on March 12, 2026, for conservation and development of the site. The GSI has stated that the matter of according urgent legal protection to the Guryul Ravine under Dachigam National Park and its Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) had been discussed with the J&K Government and that the required notification was still awaited.
The Group expressed concern over reported development and construction activities associated with the Khonmoh Industrial Estate in the vicinity of the ravine. It urged the Government to ascertain whether any ongoing or proposed activity could affect, encroach upon or compromise the geological and palaeontological features of the nationally significant site.
EPG stressed that Guryul Ravine should be viewed not only as a conservation responsibility but also as a potential centre for geological tourism, scientific research and education. It said proper conservation and professional development could attract researchers, geologists, palaeontologists, students and tourists while generating local employment and economic activity.
The Group cited China’s development of fossil and palaeontological sites as tourism and educational destinations as an example of the economic potential of scientifically managed geological heritage.
EPG has sought the present status of the proposed Government notification, findings of the March 12 joint inspection and details of action taken on the GSI’s December 2025 communication. It also sought clarification on whether the site’s boundaries have been scientifically surveyed and demarcated on the ground through marker pillars.
The Group further called for a fresh joint inspection involving the GSI, District Administration and concerned departments to assess the impact of industrial development and ensure compliance with environmental safeguards applicable to the Dachigam ESZ.
EPG urged the Chief Secretary to direct immediate verification of the site and requested that no activity capable of adversely affecting its geological or palaeontological features be permitted until its boundaries, conservation requirements and development implications are properly examined.