Sonamarg, Nov 30, KNT: Plantation activity currently underway inside a forest closure at the Sonamarg Tourist Resort has come under scrutiny after damaged fencing at multiple locations was found to be allowing livestock to enter the protected area.
According to insiders, the forest closure was created by the Forest Department in Compartment Number 63A under the CAMPA and PNV schemes during the 2023–24 period. However, despite the closure being in place, no plantation activity was carried out at the site following its establishment. While plantation work has now been initiated, the effectiveness of the exercise has been severely compromised by the poor condition of the fencing, as grazing animals continue to access the enclosure and damage newly planted saplings.
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Sources said that standard operating guidelines for the plantation are not being strictly followed at the site. Official norms require the preparation of pits measuring 1.5 by 1.5 for each sapling, along with the transportation of plants in crates to protect the soil around the roots. Instead, saplings are reportedly being carried in sacks, a practice which could adversely affect plant health and survival.
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Locals have urged the authorities to immediately restore the fencing and ensure strict supervision of plantation work so that government-funded afforestation schemes are implemented effectively and transparently. [KNT]
