The Hindu : Kerala / Thiruvananthapuram News : Second phase of social forestry scheme

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Sunday, Jun 29, 2008
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Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram

Second phase of social forestry scheme

Special Correspondent

Thiruvananthapuram: The Forest Department is all set to launch the second phase of `Vazhiyora Thanal’, a scheme using headload workers to plant and nurture trees on the roadside. Forest Minister Benoy Viswom is scheduled to inaugurate the second phase of the programme at a function here on Monday. The social forestry initiative is aimed at greening major roads in Kerala by planting shade and fruit trees on the sides of carriageways.

Nearly 1,524 km. of the National Highway, 4,810 km. of State Highway, 23,170 km. of major district roads and 1,04,257 km. of village roads have been identified for the large-scale exercise spread over three years. The first phase of the scheme was launched in June last year.

By roping in headload workers unions, the department hopes to utilise the services of their members who often spend much time on waysides waiting for work. The workers are expected to care for the saplings planted under the scheme, thereby ensuring their survival.

The trees would be planted at a distance of 50 metres. Almost 4,20,000 Teak, ‘Poo Maruthu,’ Techoma, Singapore Cherry, Kani Konna, Chamatha, Neem, Mango, Mahogany, Chara Konna, Rain Tree, Silver Oak, Anjili and Kambakam saplings would be planted along Kerala’s road network. The project is estimated to cost Rs.22 lakh. The Forest Department will provide the saplings.

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