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SRINAGAR: The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has officially declared Guryul Ravines, Khonmoh, Srinagar also known as the Permian-Triassic Fossil Park as a National Geo-Heritage Site of International Importance, marking a historic milestone in India’s geological conservation efforts. With this declaration, Guryul Ravines becomes one of 35 National Geo-Heritage Sites across the country.
The announcement was made by Asit Saha, Director General, Geological Survey of India (GSI), during an online event coinciding with the 4th UNESCO International Geo-Diversity Day and the 9th International Geo-Ethics Day 2025. Alongside Guryul Ravines, three additional sites Mandak Pal, Bursoo and Pastun (Tral) of Pulwama District were also recognized as Geo-Heritage Sites of International Importance.
During the ceremony, Mr. Saha emphasized the need for environmental conservation, balanced development and ethical geological practices, warning against the risks of unplanned expansion and tourism. He urged geoscientists to promote sustainability and preserve biodiversity through responsible action.
The event featured presentations by a UNESCO representative, Dy. DG GSI Dr. P.S. Mishra, Prof. Ghulam Jeelani, Head of Earth Sciences, University of Kashmir. Prof. (Dr.) G.M. Bhat, a noted geoscientist and former Head of Geology at Jammu University, delivered a detailed presentation on new geological findings in the area. He was felicitated for his lifetime contribution to geoscience research.
Deputy Director General, GSI, Dr. P.S. Mishra, said “The recognition of Guryul Ravines as a National Geo-Heritage Site of International Importance reflects India’s growing commitment to preserving its unique geological legacy. This site will serve as an open classroom for researchers, students and nature enthusiasts, inspiring a new generation to appreciate the Earth’s evolutionary history”.
Director, Kashmir Office, Geological Survey of India, Abdul Qayoom Paul, highlighted the scientific and educational value of the site. He presented the work and its significance during the event, which was attended by both national and international participants.
“The declaration of Guryul Ravines as a National Geo-Heritage Site is not just a recognition of its global significance but also a call for collective responsibility. It is our duty to safeguard this living archive of Earth’s history for future generations and ensure it remains a centre of learning and research,” said Mr. Paul.
EPG Convenor Faiz Bakshi lauded GSI’s decision and highlighted the group’s decade-long advocacy for the site’s protection. He raised concerns about encroachments and industrial expansion near the fossil park, warning that continued construction could irreparably harm the globally significant site. “With this declaration, the protection rules have completely changed and authorities must ensure strict compliance”.
The Guryul Ravine displays a continuous sedimentary rock sequence dating back approximately 252 million years (25.2 crore years), representing one of the most critical periods in Earth’s history when a catastrophic mass extinction wiped out nearly 90% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial life. This event, known as the “Great Dying” or the Late Permian Mass Extinction (LPME), is preserved in the fossil-rich strata of Guryul, marking the transition from the Paleozoic to the Mesozoic Era and reflecting the near-collapse of life at the Permian–Triassic Boundary (PTB).
Today, the Guryul Ravine section stands as an internationally acclaimed geo-heritage site, offering exceptional opportunities for scientific research, educational exploration, fossil study and sustainable geotourism making it a living classroom for understanding Earth’s deep-time evolution.
The event concluded with a plantation drive at the fossil park, where students from and community members actively participated, symbolizing a shared commitment to conservation and environmental stewardship. (