In a significant move to combat soil erosion and promote greenery, the Division Forest Office in Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta East) has commenced the free distribution of over 160,000 saplings of 28 different species to the general public. The initiative, aimed at enhancing environmental conservation, involves saplings produced in two nurseries located in Kawaswoti and Gaindakot.
Key Details of the Sapling Distribution Initiative
Basanta Keshab Adhikari, Chief of the Division Forest Office, announced that 160,000 saplings grown in the division nursery at the Division Forest Office Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta East) and the sub-division nursery at Gaindakot are available free of cost for plantation purposes. The saplings include a diverse range of species such as bamboo, tejpat, harare, barre, dhoopi, kapoor, madgostic, ashok, sheetalchini, neem, rukh kathar, amba, tanki, badhar, jamun, kalki, tikma, kimbu, bakaino, pipal, amla, lapsi, chiuri, and bhatmas grass.
Increased Public Interest and Environmental Impact
The distribution of these saplings has seen a surge in public interest, especially with the onset of the monsoon season following a prolonged drought. A total of 124,000 saplings have been prepared in Kawasoti over the past two years, drawing significant attention from locals eager to plant trees.
Forest department officials highlighted that distributing saplings free of cost to private individuals, public entities, and institutions will help maintain environmental balance, prevent soil erosion, beautify the landscape, and provide fodder for animals. Schools in the region have also shown a keen interest in participating in this tree-planting initiative.
Growing Interest from Other Districts
Since last year, there has been an increase in the number of people from neighboring districts coming to collect saplings produced in the Nawalparasi nurseries. This growing trend underscores the success of the initiative in fostering a culture of tree planting and environmental stewardship across the region.
Benefits of the Initiative
- Environmental Balance: The saplings help maintain ecological balance by contributing to reforestation and biodiversity.
- Soil Erosion Control: Trees and plants play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion, protecting agricultural lands, and maintaining soil health.
- Beautification: The greenery enhances the aesthetic appeal of both urban and rural areas.
- Fodder for Animals: Many of the distributed species provide valuable fodder for livestock, supporting local agriculture.
For more information on how to obtain saplings and participate in the initiative, visit the Division Forest Office in Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta East) or the sub-division office in Gaindakot.