Special cover released by the postal department during Jampex. Picture by Bhola Prasad

Jamshedpur, March 26: Dimna lake and Dalma sanctuary have found a place on postal covers.

Postal department of Jharkhand circle released a special cover on Dimna lake and Dalma sanctuary during Jampex, an annual district-level philately exhibition at the general post office (GPO) in Bistupur today.

“These are definitely the city’s landmarks but some 50 years down the line they might not remain as picturesque as they are now. The next generation would probably forget the history of these landmarks. To inculcate the knowledge of the city’s heritage among the next generation, these postal covers have been launched,” said Anil Kumar, the director of postal service, Jharkhand circle.

This is the first time that steel city hotspots have made it to the postal covers.

The special covers contain pictures of the two tourist hotspots. On the back of the cover, there is a written text and a brief description about the two landmarks.

“Dimna lake is a great source of water supply and the most attractive tourist spot. It must be conserved. Dalma wildlife sanctuary has forest wealth. Hence, by releasing the special cover, the postal department wants to spread awareness among people to protect these landmarks,” added Kumar.

A cancellation stamp was also issued today, comprising pictures of elephants and other animals found in Dalma wildlife sanctuary. The postal department presented a cover stamp and a brochure on Bollywood actress Madhubala. The cover was formally released in Mumbai on March 18.

On sale on the first day of the release, the special covers were a hit with students and other visitors. The officials at the GPO said over 500 covers were sold today, on the first day of the release. Each article — comprising brochures, special cover and stamps — was available for Rs 2.

Moreover, apart from the display of articles at the exhibition, there was also a separate section, where city-based philatelists showcased their collection.

The section comprised rare philatelic collections from 118 countries.

Students from city schools also participated in the quiz conducted by the postal department.