INTACH Kathua Sub chapter Conducts Natural Heritage Cleanliness Drive at Badnota Waterfall

KATHUA, JULY 05: Members of the INTACH Kathua Subchapter  visited the Badnota Waterfall in the Lohai Malhar block of Kathua district. Situated approximately 20 kilometers from Machchedi and accessible via a 4-kilometer trek, the waterfall is recognized as one of the largest and most stunning natural attractions in the Union Territory, with significant potential to draw tourists from across India.

The visiting team, comprising  of Ankush Sharma, Devinder Kumar, Deep Kumar Sharma, Raman Sharma and Ayush Sharma aimed to catalog and explore the natural heritage of the Kathua district. Squadron Leader Sumit Sharma had also joined them. Upon reaching the waterfall, the team was disheartened to find the site littered with plastic bags, food packets, and alcohol bottles, detracting from its natural beauty.

In response, the team immediately initiated a cleanliness drive, using the resources available to them. Members and volunteers collected the scattered garbage, though their efforts were interrupted by a sudden rainfall. To further discourage littering, they inscribed a message on a stone, urging visitors to keep the area clean. Additionally, the team engaged with local villagers to raise awareness about the environmental impact of littering.

Ankush Sharma, head of the INTACH Kathua Subchapter, emphasized the importance of developing Badnota Waterfall as a tourist destination while addressing the environmental challenges it faces. “The beauty of Badnota Waterfall holds immense potential for tourism,” Sharma stated. “However, it is crucial that we address the environmental threats to preserve its natural heritage for future generations.”