Need seen for effective utilisation of funds earmarked for forest development
Speaking after launching the Vanamahotsava and Environmental Awareness Programme by planting a sapling at the Rajiv Nagar Park in the city, Mr. Gaviappa noted that the region between Hosapete and Chitradurga has some of the most expansive forest cover in Kalyana Karnataka.
'The department should scientifically explore using Tungabhadra river waters for forest zones. If pipeline systems are set up to divert river waters to lakes, it will improve groundwater levels and help trees remain green even during summer,' he said.
He pointed out that such a move will also benefit farmers. 'Public visits to local wildlife spots like Daroji Bear Sanctuary and Atalji Zoological Park in Kamalapura should be encouraged. These areas are rich in biodiversity, including rare bird species such as the Great Indian Bustard. We need to preserve and promote such natural wealth,' he added.
Campaign slogan
Addressing a gathering, Assistant Conservator of Forests H. Anupama said that this year's campaign slogan encourages everyone to plant a sapling in the name of their mother, symbolising nurturing and care.
'Forests attract rainfall and play a key role in reducing pollution. We must instill awareness among children not just about education but also about environmental conservation,' she said.
She called for priority to be given to greening efforts by planting more trees and protecting biodiversity. 'Every living being has a right to live on this planet. To report forest-related issues or animal poaching, citizens can call the forest helpline 1926,' she added.
Planting drives
Speaking on the occasion, Hosapete City Municipal Council Vice-President Ramesh Gupta said that Vanamahotsava should not be limited to a single day. 'We plan to extend tree planting drives to all 35 wards in the city and organise environment awareness activities across the municipality,' he said.
Blossoms Kindergarten and High School headmaster Vivek, Rajiv Nagar Welfare Association president Katagi Gopal, Assistant Conservator of Forests Kirubanandan, other Forest Department staff, teachers, students and residents were present.
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Indian Express
4 hours ago
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Supreme Court-named panel proposes ‘power corridors' through Great Indian Bustard habitats
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Sources said the idea behind creating power corridors is to ensure that birds, especially in high-risk habitats like Jaisalmer and Kutch, aren't forced to repeatedly navigate through a maze of criss-crossing power lines. These areas are densely dotted with transmission and distribution lines, which pose fatal risks to all birds, including the critically endangered GIB. Another important mandate of the committee was to review the boundaries of the Bustard's habitat. In March 2024, the Supreme Court had accepted a classification of GIB habitat into three categories: priority areas (13,163 sq km), where the birds are known to live and breed regularly; additional important areas (5,977 sq km), which also matter but are less frequently used; and, potential areas (78,580 sq km), or large open landscapes where the birds might thrive. These zones were mapped using long-term field surveys and satellite tracking data collected by the Wildlife Institute of India and the Rajasthan Forest Department since 2014. After reviewing the data, the committee decided to retain 13,163 sq km of priority area in Rajasthan. From the 5,977 sq km marked as additional, it has recommended including just 850 sq km. An area of 14,013 sq km is thus proposed as 'revised priority area' for Bustards in Rajasthan. The remaining additional important area was excluded due to fewer GIB sightings and its importance for expected power transmission needs. The focus in Rajasthan will be on Desert National Park, Salkha-Kuchri area, Sanu-Mokla-Parewar, Pokhran Field Firing Range (PFFR), buffer areas of Ramdevra and the eastern periphery of PFFR, Dholiya, Khetolai, and Chacha. In Gujarat, the committee retained the priority area of 500 sq km and has proposed a consolidated revised priority area of 740 sq km. 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In the past 14 years, he has written on a range of subjects such as sports, current affairs, civic issues, city centric environment news, central government policies and politics. ... Read More
The Hindu
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