WGH DC stresses on enhancing forest cover

A Correspondent

Shillong,   April 25:  The Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills, Ram Singh highlighted about the drastic consequences of felling trees especially in jhuming areas.

Speaking as the chief guest at the National Gram Panchayati Raj Day which was observed at Rengsangre School playground, near Asanang by the Rongram Community and Rural Development Block, Singh advised the people to grow more indigenous trees and regulate arecanut as well as other commercial plantations, especially in the catchment areas and streams.

According to the Deputy Commissioner this will increase the forest cover and preserve the ecosystem thereby help to revive the dying springs and water sources in the area.

Being an avid lover of nature and with spirit of adventure, the DC trekked to the nearby villages and ranges of Rengsangre area and found that people had extended jhuming cultivation even upto the reserved forest and catchment areas and have also planted arecanut plantations extensively in the area.

Further, in view of the garbage being thrown carelessly everywhere, including picnic spots in and around the area, Singh has directed the self help groups to look after their respective areas to keep the place clean and also to inform the picnickers not to litter the place.

The Deputy Commissioner also highlighted about the intensive campaign being initiated by the Central Government on schemes such as Ujjwala Yojana, Ghar Ghar Me Bijli, Jan Dan Yojana, in order to upscale the living conditions of the people of the nation in general and region in particular.

He also spoke about the Government’s initiative to make every adult citizen open an account and avail the advantages of the Direct Transfer Benefit.

During the interactive session, Nokma of Rengsangre, Nekson Sangma addressed to the Deputy Commissioner about the scarcity of water in the area in spite of the stream flowing through the village.

Meanwhile, the Nokma of Asanang, Rosalin Marak highlighted about the problem of water and electricity faced by the people in the area.