Vadah Plantation: Quick fix solution to curb flash floods, claims forest official
Shimla, Aug 8
In the face of ongoing weather challenges, the people of Himachal Pradesh are taking matters into their own hands as they await aid to address the frequent incidents of flash floods and heavy rainfall-related tragedies. The forest division in Dalhousie, a popular tourism destination in the state, has proposed a simple yet effective solution to mitigate the impact of such disasters on fertile lands and soil erosion.
Under the initiative of the department, 2500 cuttings of Vadah (Salix) were planted in the Forest Zone Bhatiat on Monday, with the help of public cooperation, including enthusiastic young students. These plantings aim to prevent heavy landslides and soil erosion caused by torrential rains in the Motla village and water drain areas of the forest division.
Vadah (Salix) plants were chosen for their quick growth and their ability to bind soil on hilly slopes with their strong root system. The Divisional Forest Officer, Rajneesh Mahajan, expressed confidence in this easily available and affordable solution, which could significantly reduce losses caused by such calamities. The state horticulture and forest extension center is also providing various plant species to protect topsoil and mitigate losses.
Also read:HP’s rain fury revealed: incessant monsoon, state being prone to frequent landslides or anthropogenic factors
Rajneesh Mahajan is encouraging the involvement of Panchayati Raj Institutions, local residents, and school students to plant more trees, suggesting bamboo, rosewood, and other suitable species for effective prevention of landslides. These species are recommended for planting in moist areas to minimize landslides and flash floods.
This strategic plantation approach can stabilize vulnerable dumping areas and field sidewalls during the rainy season. Additionally, various grass varieties, which quickly grow in loose soils and flash flood-prone regions, not only provide fodder for cattle but also help deter wild animals from infesting crops.
The official highlighted the urgency of protecting fertile topsoil, which is eroding due to human activities such as mining, road construction, and improper disposal of non-biodegradable waste. The forest division aims to promote the growth of fast-growing plants and trees that are natural to landslide-prone regions, encouraging active participation from the community to expand such plantations.
By adopting these measures, the forest division hopes to protect the environment and ecology while offering an accessible and sustainable solution to combat the effects of flash floods and torrential rains in the region
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