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Bihar's Power Project Ensures 3 Saplings for Every Tree Cut, DM Clarifies

The Bhagalpur District Magistrate has clarified that for the Pirpainti Power Project, three saplings must be planted for every tree cut on acquired land, following state rules. The project company has deposited funds with the Forest Department to cover all costs for the planting and long-term maintenance of these saplings. While officials assert environmental safeguards are integral and not an afterthought, local farmers remain anxious about the project's impact on livelihoods and water resources. The administration maintains its goal is to strike a balance between necessary infrastructure growth and long-term ecological responsibility.

Key Points: Bihar Power Project: 3 Saplings Planted for Every Tree Cut

  • 3:1 compensatory afforestation rule
  • Company deposits funds for sapling care
  • Aim to balance development and ecology
  • Local farmer concerns persist
2 min read

Three saplings for every tree cut: DM clarifies rules on Pirpainti Power Project

Bhagalpur DM clarifies rules for Pirpainti Power Project: strict compensatory afforestation with funded sapling care aims to balance development and ecology.

"for every tree that is cut down, three new saplings must be planted as compensation - DM Nawal Kishor Choudhary"

Bhagalpur, Dec 24

Amid ongoing development work for the proposed power plant in Bihar's Bhagalpur district, concerns from local farmers have begun to surface, particularly over the removal of trees from government-acquired land in the Pirpainti area.

As preparations related to construction move forward, the district administration has sought to reassure residents that environmental rules and government regulations are being strictly followed.

Speaking to IANS, Bhagalpur District Magistrate Nawal Kishor Choudhary stated that the Bihar government has clear provisions in place regarding tree removal on acquired land.

As per the rules being followed, for every tree that is cut down, three new saplings must be planted as compensation. This policy is being strictly adhered to.

The aim is to minimise environmental damage and ensure long-term ecological balance in the region.

Dr Chaudhary further explained that the responsibility for plantation and maintenance does not end with planting saplings alone.

The company involved in the power plant project has already deposited a designated amount with the Forest Department to cover all related expenses.

These costs include soil preparation, labour charges, water supply, and other essential requirements necessary for the healthy growth and survival of the plants.

According to the DM, the funds being provided are in fact meant to ensure that the saplings are properly nurtured over time. There is nothing like that; the saplings are being planted only as a formality.

The administration has assertively said that environmental safeguards are being treated as an integral part of the project. These safeguards are not at all afterthoughts.

Officials maintain that all development activities in Pirpainti are being carried out while keeping government norms, environmental guidelines, and local sensitivities in mind.

Despite these assurances, some farmers in the area remain anxious about the broader impact of the project on their livelihoods and surroundings. Tree removal and land acquisition have naturally raised fears related to agriculture, water availability, and long-term sustainability.

However, district officials insist that development and environmental protection can move forward together.

By enforcing compensatory afforestation and ensuring proper funding for plant care, the administration aims to strike a balance between infrastructure growth and ecological responsibility as the Pirpainti power plant project progresses.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As someone from Bihar, development is needed but not at the cost of our farmers' livelihoods and environment. The anxiety of those farmers is very real. A sapling can't replace a mature tree's benefits overnight. The administration must engage with them continuously, not just give assurances. 🌳
R
Rohit P
Finally some proactive communication from the DM's office! The fact that funds are deposited for maintenance is a crucial detail often missed. If implemented properly, this model could set a good example for other infrastructure projects in the country. Fingers crossed.
S
Sarah B
Interesting policy. In many places, compensatory plantation fails due to lack of post-planting care. Allocating funds for soil prep, water, and labour is smart. The key is transparency—where exactly will these new trees be planted, and can locals monitor their growth?
V
Vikram M
The farmers' fears about water availability and agriculture are not "despite" assurances, they are because of past experiences. We hear such promises often. Action and visible results on the ground will build trust, not press statements. Jai Bihar.
K
Kavya N
Balance is essential. We need power for development, but we also need our green cover and fertile land. I appreciate the DM's detailed explanation about the deposited funds. Hope the local community is involved in the plantation drive—it creates ownership and ensures better care.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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