PANAJI
The raging forest fires in March that devastated swathes of Goa's forest cover, including in its protected sanctuaries, has driven a sense of urgency to take corrective steps and the government has announced it will adopt technology-driven measures to mitigate the damage.
Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane on Saturday said that the government will adopt measures, including using drones and other cutting-edge technology to replant trees in the affected regions of the Sanctuaries and other forest areas.
“We will undertake the re-planting exercise by using drones and other technologies," Rane said.
The minister, who has faced persistent criticism for the inadequate handling of the forest fires, also said that the government is working to develop a longer-term five-year plan which will show results.
“In the past, trees were planted on a number of grazing grounds, depriving wild animals of the nourishment. As a result, they have invaded fields with human habitation and damaged farmer crops,” Rane said, suggesting that the long-term plan will rope in experts to rectify the lacuna in the forest management plan.
"It is crucial that we work with experts so that what is best for wildlife is done," Rane said, adding that former PCCF of the Karnataka government, Luthra and Sujeet Dongre, who is an expert member of the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) will be assisting the Goa government on conservation issues.
“We will have review meetings and visit various parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the State. We have a plan in place; we have already spoken to & DG Forest, C P Goel Ji, about a wildlife safari park,” Rane said.
