A huge expanse of land gets
submerged when a reservoir is created followed by the construction of a dam. So
it is very essential to demarcate the areas rich in biodiversity for protection
of the environment. Survival of the exotic and near extinct species which are
affected during the construction of a Project should be given due importance
for continuous existence of floral diversity.
Hence, a sincere mission was
carried out in Umrongso with the purpose of conserving the diverse plant
species and flora of the region. A Botanical Garden was set up with the primary
aim of conservation, prompt multiplication, rehabilitation of the plant
species, extending awareness about the floral heritage and promoting education.
Rare and endangered plants were collected from the impact areas and were
introduced in a Nursery.
The Garden spreads over a large
area and various plant species have been planted for preservation. It has
several sections like wild edibles, ferns, medicinal plants, palms and cycads,
rare and endangered species, wild plants of horticultural importance, plants of
economic importance etc. The garden is enriched by the rare pitcher plant and
with different varieties of orchids. To move around and have close access to
each plant and every section, a pathway crisscrossing the total length and
breadth of the garden has been laid out. A small lake in the centre with a
bridge over it adds to the beauty of the garden. Blooming water lilies and
ducks wading in the water present a beautiful sight to the visitors. Rare birds
are noticed during the migratory season. For the pollination of plants,
beehives are maintained.
The Nursery has a green shade
net-house for hatching various plant species. Vegetative propagation of plants
is carried out throughout the year and later the seedlings are transferred to
small poly-bags. Different species of trees like Neem (medicinal plant),
Silikha, Krishnachura, Kanchan, Chandan, Sonaru, Teak (Sagoon) etc. are
available in the Nursery and plantation labels are marked on them. The plant
saplings are then distributed around for planting them in different areas as
massive plantation is a major step towards protection of the environment.
[Published in ‘Articles Base’ on 14 February
2012]
No comments:
Post a Comment