CM to inaugurate man-made forest in Nandini’s abandoned mines

Central Chronicle News
Bhilai, Sep 10: A large man-made forest is being developed in the Durg district. The abandoned mines of Nandini are being converted into natural habitat for ecological restoration. This project has been complete at a cost of about Rs 3.30 crore.
The funds were sourced from DMF and other heads. This project was rolled out on the instructions of Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel with the objectives of environment protection.
This project has set an example before the entire nation and the world for converting the mined out land into natural habitat. Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel will inaugurate this forest September 15. He will also plant saplings during the inaugural function. It is noteworthy that already a large number of teak and gooseberry trees exist in Nandini’s forest spread over an area of 17 km. Now 83,000 saplings have been planted in the vacant place. For this project, funds have been approved from DMF-ADB.
On Saturday, Collector Dr Sarveshwar Narendra Bhure inspected the area in view of the Chief Minister’s visit. Giving detailed information about the project, DFO Dhammshil Ganveer said that 83000 saplings have been planted.
In about three years, this area will be fully developed as a forest. Diverse species of plants have been planted here to create a rich natural environment. Ganveer said that trees like Peepal, Banyan have been planted here, which have a very long life, as well as medicinal trees like Harra, Behada, Mahuva have also been planted. DFO Ganveer informed that the entire project has been developed in such a way that it will also become ideal habitat for birds. This area could also be developed as a bird park. There is a huge wetland where Whistling Ducks, Open Bill Starks etc have already been seen. SDM Brijesh Kshatriya and other officers were also present during the inspection.
With the aim of promoting eco-tourism, special arrangements will also be made so that the visitors could move around in this man-made forest. Necessary action plan has also been made for the purpose so that it can be included in the best places to visit not only in Chhattisgarh but in the country.
During the visit, Chief Minister will also inaugurate the new college building at Ahiwara. It has been built at a cost of Rs 4.83 crore. Along with this, the rest house has also been built at a cost of about Rs 1.30 crores. It will also be inaugurated by the Chief Minister. Collector also inspected the preparations of inauguration function.