Assam govt to use drones to check authenticity of tree plantation programs

GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday stated that drone surveys will be used to check authenticity of tree plantation drives and programs in the state under Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) and other biodiversity projects.

The Chief Minister further said that strict action will be taken against officials of forest department if the forest areas are put at risk along with fixing accountabilities.

Also Read: TIPRA Chief Pradyot Manikya slams CPI(M) for remarks on Maharajas of Tripura

Sarma attended the mega plantation program organized by Environment & Forest Department in the AIIMS construction site at Changsari in Kamrup on Wednesday as part of the 72nd Van Mahotsav observance in the state. 

He was accompanied by the state Forest Minister Parimal Suklabaidya, Health Minister Keshab Mahanta, BJP president Bhabesh Kalita and Transport Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary and other dignitaries during the plantation program.  

Stressing on the importance of afforestation, the Chief Minister said that the pandemic has taught us the importance of oxygen for survival. "We all must strive towards preserving our forests & biodiversity", he reiterated. 

Several crucial reforms in the forest department will be initiated by the state government to prevent incidents like elephant deaths of Bamuni hills, further informed the Chief Minister.

Follow us on Facebook