While all the correct noises are being made about tree plantation and the intent may also be good, it is vital that trees are maintained after the plantation
Devendra Fadnavis. File pic
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently announced that 10 crore trees would be planted this year under the ‘Green Maharashtra, Prosperous Maharashtra’ campaign to increase the forest cover in the state. A target for planting another 10 crore trees has been set for next year as well.
Reports everywhere stated that these initiatives succeed if tree plantation becomes a public movement, and everyone must work together for the same.
Fadnavis suggested planting saplings that are at least 1.5 to three years old to ensure survival and growth, adding that the efforts should be made to increase the survival rate using artificial intelligence, remote sensing and satellite imagery.
While all the correct noises are being made about tree plantation and the intent may also be good, it is vital that trees are maintained after the plantation.
We have just had several tree plantation initiatives thanks to the recent Environment Day. Many of these have the greening goal at its heart, but do our politicians, who appear at the forefront of such movements, have the resources to ensure these saplings grow into trees? Simply planting a sapling and seeing it die a quick death makes little sense.
There must be a dedicated task force to ensure plants actually grow and bloom. It is not just the number of trees but those that survive that is also important. Wanton destruction of green cover for development, instead of striking a balance or trying one’s utmost for green preservation, means words like these carry little weight and people become sceptical.
Destroying greenery and transplanting trees in places far away or where green already exists does not serve a purpose. Let us consider all factors and aspects when it comes to righting wrongs and working for the environment.
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