As part using its watershed management programmes for conservation activities, the Balussery block panchayat has launched a project under which bamboo saplings will be planted on the banks of various rivers.
The project, ‘Puzhakal Marikkunnilla; Theeravum,’ will enlist the cooperation of workers under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS).
The drive will also cover rivulets coursing through the panchayat.
Officials said three varieties of bamboo would be used. The project would be implemented with the cooperation of the Agriculture Department.
The Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi, would supply the saplings, they said.
The Poonoor river banks will get special focus.
The Unnikulam grama panchayat will play a lead role in mobilising workers and completing the work.
The Balussery block panchayat drew inspiration from a similar project of the Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM) implemented for the conservation of the Mampuzha river.
The Peruvayal panchayat had cooperated with the project.
The CWRDM too had sought the support of MGNREGS workers to complete the work on a three-km stretch, along the bank. The saplings were purchased from the KFRI.
Source: The Hindu,2 June 2015