The Punjab Government has decided to equip Mattewara forest with a unique venture of ‘interpretation centre’ — one of its own kind in any forest reserve of the country. “Interpretation centre will have the potential to educate visitors about natural resources, the relationship between humans and natural resources and the need for conservation and park management policies,” said the Government spokesperson.
He said that the proposed nature interpretation centre shall have viewing galleries each depicting different themes. “Starting from State’s profile on forests and wildlife wealth, the galleries shall unfold many facts on biodiversity, floral richness of Punjab. There will be a special corner for children consisting of a few interactive items, such as recognising the calls of birds, comprising weight and height with few important animal species,” he said.
Giving information about managing of the reserve, the spokesperson said that the reserve shall be run by the Government under the patronage of Punjab Forest Department. “The staff of Mattewara Forest Range shall play proactive role in its management and development,” he said, adding that ludhiana Divisional Forest Officer shall be the authority to exercise and carry out development works in this reserve.
He said that the various facilities for the staff such as office, vehicles etc shall be provided under this project. Explaining importance of this venture, the spokesperson said that increased understanding of natural resources may generate visitors support for the conservation of park’s resources.
“This shall aim to reveal meanings and relationship, not simply by factual information, but through the use of original objects by first-hand experience and by illustrative media. Interpretation shall provide a first-hand opportunity to enrich the experience of nature and thus is a very important communication tool in the protected areas,” he said.