In the wake of the rising concern of diminishing green covers in the State, especially in Ranchi, the Department of Forest is again gearing up to adopt various techniques during the monsoon season. The Department is at an advanced stage of taking help of helicopters for dispersing seeds in far-fetched barren hills and lands in different parts of the State.
The move in order to increase green wraps before the onset of monsoon, is besides its attempt to plant saplings on hills and mountain terrains. So far, 17 hills in Ranchi district have been identified for planting samplings and drive is expected to take off from July 3.
“We are trying to cover quite a number of places this year. Targeting the barren lands with priority, this time helicopters will be used in dispersing seeds. However, it has not been finalised completely but the attempts are being made to engage choppers in the drive. Soon a decision regarding this will be taken,” said, Divisional Forest officer (DFO) Ranchi, Rajiv lochan Bakshi.
The massive plantation drive has been initiated with a motto to restore greenery in the State as per the instruction issued by Chief Minister Raghubar Das in 2016. Approximately, 2.5 crore saplings are expected to be planted across the State this season. The Forest department will plant approximately 2 lakh saplings in State Capital alone, mentioned the DFO.
“last year, 17 hills in Ranchi district were identified. However, the Department could not conduct plantation drives on the hills. This year, the Department has revised the proposal of covering barren land and planting saplings on hills. Engaging common masses in the project will also be the top priority of the Forest Department,” added Bakshi.
As per the scheme ‘Jan Van Yojana’, the saplings will be provided to public at a subsidised rate. “As per the provision, 50 per cent subsidy will be given to the public. Earlier too saplings were distributed at Rs 5 to the local residents to encourage and involve them in this green drive. like last year, plants will be made available in all the major plant nurseries located in State Capital and suburbs,” added Bakshi.
During the one month massive plantation drive, an awareness campaign will be organised to motivate the public in collaboration with the NGOs and other firms. In 2016, nearly 1.5 lakh saplings were planted at different places across the Capital City. Awareness will be created through the platform of ‘Van Mahotshav’ event and involving several dignitaries stated the DFO.