Chhattisgarh Forest Department Addresses Tree Damage

Summary Notes on Girdled Trees in Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve

Environmental and Ecological Concerns

1. Incident Overview:

   • Location: Karka village, Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve (USTR), Chhattisgarh.
   • Issue: Approximately 2,500 trees were found girdled (bark removed) to facilitate illegal encroachment.
   • Tree Types Affected: Predominantly Sal, Bija, and Tendu.

2. Survey and Findings:

   • An inspection between September 22 and October 10 revealed over 500 freshly girdled trees.
   • Utilization of DGPS-enabled drone surveys alongside ISRO satellite imagery from 2010 and 2016 indicated substantial forest loss over the last decade.

3. Importance of USTR:

   • The reserve is vital for preserving biodiversity and is located in the origin landscape of the Mahanadi River.

Intervention and Restoration Efforts

1. Expert Assistance:

   • An initiative is in place to save trees, utilizing the bridge grafting technique.
   • Vijay Nishanth, known as "Tree Doctor," will provide specialized assistance.

2. Bridge Grafting Technique:

   • Involves grafting a healthy branch across the girdled area to restore nutrient flow.
   • Current methods include applying cow dung and soil to the injured site.
   • Previous efforts in 2022 showed a low success rate (~10%), necessitating expert intervention.

3. Capacity Building:

   • USTR personnel will receive training in specialized treatment procedures from experts.

Community Engagement

• The USTR is involving tribal communities and forest dwellers to integrate traditional ecological knowledge and practices concerning tree care and healing.

Data and Statistics

• Total Affected Trees: Approximately 2,500.
• Freshly Girdled Trees: Over 500 identified as potentially savable.

Relevant Policies and Legal Framework

• Protection of Forests: USTR's efforts reflect the constitutional and legal responsibilities associated with environmental conservation and biodiversity protection.
• Indigenous Rights and Consultation: The plan to consult local tribal communities aligns with rights recognized under various environmental and forestry laws in India.

Importance and Implications

• The effective restoration of the girdled trees aligns with national objectives for preserving wildlife and natural habitats, emphasizing the need for innovative conservation techniques.
• The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of illegal encroachment and forest degradation in protected reserves, necessitating stronger protective measures and community involvement.