Gujarat: Mega clean-up op to remove 30-40 lakh fallen trees in Gir forest

AHMEDABAD: After extensive deliberations, the state forest department has begun working on a roadmap for clearing an estimated 30-40 lakh trees that have been uprooted due to cyclone Tauktae and pose a hurdle to wildlife in the Gir sanctuary , including Asiatic lions.

The entire exercise, bigger than the 1982 cyclone in the Asiatic lion landscape, is expected to be carried out over the next three to four years.

In the 1982 cyclone, an estimated 28.1 lakh trees were uprooted.

"We plan to clear the trees that have been uprooted in the cyclone that struck Gujarat in May. As per initial estimates, the number of trees that have been uprooted would be anywhere between 30 lakh and 40 lakh. The damage seems bigger than the 1982 cyclone. We will do an extensive survey to assess the exact damage and will prepare a plan on how to clear the areas," said Dushyant Vasavada, chief conservator of forests (Junagadh wildlife circle).

He said that the fallen trees, will be cut down, wherever necessary and stacked in a safe place inside the sanctuary till necessary clearances are availed about the future course of action from the state and national wildlife boards in line with the Supreme Court directives.