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Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Launches Second Phase of Aerial Seeding in Trikuta Hills

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has commenced the second phase of its aerial seed dispersal initiative in the Trikuta Hills. This phase aims to cover roughly 83 hectares across several identified locations to improve green cover in inaccessible areas. The program builds on a first phase that achieved a meaningful 3% ecological regeneration rate despite the difficult terrain. The initiative is part of a decade-long plan and complements other environmental measures like solar energy adoption and waste management.

Key Points: Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Aerial Seed Dispersal Phase 2

  • Second phase of aerial seed dispersal launched
  • Aims to cover 83 hectares in challenging terrain
  • First phase saw 3% ecological regeneration success
  • Part of a broader 10-year greening plan for Trikuta Hills
2 min read

Vaishno Devi Shrine Board begins second phase of seed dispersal in Trikuta Hills

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board begins the second phase of its aerial seed dispersal drive to boost green cover in Trikuta Hills' inaccessible areas.

"the Shrine Board has made significant progress in increasing the green cover in the Shrine area - Sachin Kumar Vaishya"

Katra, January 29

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board began the winter plantation drive and the second phase of aerial seed dispersal at the Trikuta Hills on Thursday.

A demonstration exercise was held at SMVD Narayana Superspeciality Hospital in Kakryal. The seed-dispersal activity shall be carried out during the week, taking advantage of favourable weather conditions to improve seed germination and achieve better ecological outcomes.

It may be recalled that the Shrine Board has formulated an aerial seeding plan to improve green cover in the inaccessible areas of the Trikuta Hills over the next ten years.

According to the release, the programme achieved an estimated 3% ecological regeneration success rate, which is considered meaningful given the region's challenging terrain. Despite steep slopes, rocky surfaces, and uneven soil depth, some of the dispersed seeds germinated, resulting in early vegetation growth that improved soil stability and green cover.

The experience also provided useful insights about suitable plant species, which are now being used to make the current phase more effective.

The existing phase aims to cover approximately 83 hectares across identified locations, including Banj Nallah, Khari Extension, and parts of Barkli, Koura Sumb, Kalal, Banjala and Matali Dabbar, located on the right side of the Shrine Board's Serli Helipad.

The activity involved the aerial dispersal of seeds of various species like Amla, Anaar, Siris, Karangal, Thuja, Gulmohar and Bamboo, etc., to enhance green cover and support ecological restoration in these hilly and environmentally sensitive areas.

Speaking on the occasion, Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB, said that, under the directions of SMVDSB Chairman Manoj Sinha, the Shrine Board has made significant progress in increasing the green cover in the Shrine area.

He highlighted that, through the Annual Greening Plans (AGPs), more than 19 lakh saplings have been planted in recent years to preserve the sacred region's natural beauty and ecological balance.

He further affirmed that the aerial-based afforestation drive complements several other environmentally responsible initiatives undertaken by the Shrine Board, including the adoption of solar energy, scientific waste management through a ban on single-use plastic and segregation of waste at source, as well as water conservation measures across the Shrine complex and adjoining areas.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good to see a long-term plan. 10 years is a realistic timeline for such difficult terrain. The 3% success rate might seem low, but in the Himalayas, that's actually an achievement. Hope they keep it up.
A
Aman W
Planting Amla and Anaar is excellent. These are native species that will thrive and also benefit local wildlife. The holistic approach with solar energy and waste management is commendable. More religious places should follow this model.
S
Sarah B
As someone who visited last year, the hills are breathtaking but you can see areas where erosion is a concern. This scientific approach to conservation is exactly what's needed. Kudos to the board for thinking ahead.
V
Vikram M
While the initiative is good, I hope there is complete transparency in the expenditure. These projects often have high costs. The public and devotees who contribute would appreciate regular updates on the ecological impact, not just press releases.
N
Nisha Z
19 lakh saplings! That's a massive number. It's heartening to see such concrete action. Mata Vaishno Devi's abode should be green and pure. This work truly serves both God and nature. 🌳

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