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Time of India

Plantation drive to improve ground water levels in Palamu

Daltonganj: On the eve of Earth Hour, the Medininagar forest division here said it is set to launch an afforestation drive and intensify its efforts to preserve water bodies in the forests of Palamu district by curbing illegal stone quarrying, which has damaged groundwater tables. As per the India Forest Report of 2023, forests make up for 1,217.92 square kilometres across the district. Illegal stone mining has severely impacted local water bodies, with water coverage plummeting from 46 hectares in 2011 to just 8 hectares currently. This dramatic decline is attributed to unregulated quarrying, which has permanently damaged underground water tables and disrupted natural aquifer recharge processes, leading to widespread vegetation death and ecosystem disruption. Divisional forest officer Satyam Kumar said, "The destruction of water tables through illegal and haphazard mining must cease immediately. Quarry operators cannot remain blind to this crime against humanity." Despite these challenges, Palamu has witnessed a modest 2.36 % increase in forest area over the past decade. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Google Brain Co-Founder Andrew Ng, Recommends: Read These 5 Books And Turn Your Life Around Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo The department is implementing strategic measures to prevent the degradation of moderately dense forests into open or scrub forests. Kumar said 10% of new plantations will feature species beneficial to both humans and wildlife. "We're moving away from monoculture plantations," Kumar said. "Species like jackfruit, which appeals to both humans and elephants, and jamun, favoured by humans and bears, will be prioritised. This diversified approach aims to create a more sustainable and harmonious ecosystem." The initiative represents a significant shift toward ecological balance, addressing both environmental preservation and community needs. By focusing on multi-purpose vegetation, the department hopes to establish a more resilient forest system, Kumar said.