There is no evidence of plantations whatsoever in these dense forests. Where are the 48 lakhs rupees and the 55,000 saplings?
Case Analysis
The Matiyadand site is one of six compensatory afforestation sites "compensating" for the diversion of 157.5 ha of forest land for the construction of power lines from Korba to Birsingpur by Powergrid Corporation of India. The total amount received by the Forest Department against the entire project is nearly Rs. 11 crore, including 8.5 crores for Net Present Value and 2 crores for Compensatory Afforestation.
This site is 50 ha of "degraded notified forest" land with a budget of Rs. 48,20,000. This seven-year project started in 2011 proposed the plantation of 55,000 saplings of four species (including eucalyptus, teak, and sissoo, at approximately 87 rs/sapling). However, double the proposed amount, or 1,10,000 saplings, were claimed to be planted by the forest department.
Satellite Imagery Analysis
Satellite imagery (2009-2017) reveals no pits, no saplings. and no evidence of change for the duration of the project.
Implications
The forest appears dense rather than degraded both before and after the alleged plantation, with no visible changes.
It is extremely unlikely that 2,200 plants/ha. could be planted within such a dense forests.
Maps/Photos
e-Green Watch Record
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