Dimapur: Forest watch towers-cum-viewpoints were constructed by Kigwema village community at two separate locations along the path leading to Shurho peak.

The construction work was sponsored by Nagaland forest department.

During a routine trekking-cum-inspection programme by the staff of Kohima forest division to Kigwema village on Wednesday, divisional forest officer (DFO) Rongsenlemla Imchen appreciated the efforts of the community regarding the conservation of forest and wildlife and stressed on sustainability of the community conservation endeavour.

Imchen said the main objective of the watch towers is protection and aesthetic utility. The department also thanked the Kigwema Biodiversity and Wildlife Management Committee, the village council, the youth organisation, women's organisation and the churches for their collaborative responsibility in conserving the area.

Imchen said one can get a glimpse of around 60 per cent of the Kigwema community forest, including the popular trekking trails near Shurho peak and Mount Japfu, which is home to the tallest rhododendrons and the very rare bird -Blyth's Tragopan - from both the watch towers. She also said at least 15 villages are visible from the towers.

On behalf of the local functionaries of the village, Kigwema Youth Organisation, president Vibeilie Sale thanked the department for its initiative and for creating environmental awareness in the village. He said the community would put in all its efforts to protect and preserve the environment.

Besides the Kohima DFO, the trekking-cum-inspection programme was attended by Kohima forest range staff, Kigwema Youth Organisation and local functionaries.