Forest cover increased by 85 sq km between 2013-15 in Rajasthan

Forest cover in Rajasthan has increased by 85 sq km during 2013 to 2015 through various measures and efforts taken by the government, Forest and Environment Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar said on Monday.

At present, state has 9.5 per cent forest land, of which 4.5 per cent is actual forest.

The satellite images survey of the Centre has found that forest cover increased in state during 2013-15 by 85 sq km, he said.

Listing out the achievements of his department ahead of fourth anniversary of BJP government in Rajasthan, Khimsar said flagship schemes such as Mukhyamantri Jal Swavlamban

Yojna was an attempt to meet the water requirements and increased the green cover in the state.

In last four years, plantation and maintenance works of Rs 1,270 crore was done in 2.23 lakh hectare area.

A total of 930.62 lakh saplings were planted under different schemes, he added.

When asked about alleged high rate of environmental crime in Rajasthan, Khimsar said there is a task force to deal with illegal mining and industrial pollution problem and strict action is being taken against the accused.

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Three biological parks and nine eco-tourism sites were opened for public and work for a biological park in Bikaner was under pipeline, he said.

Khimsar said a tiger and a tigress will soon be trans- located to Mukundra Tiger Hills Reserve as they have received permission from the National Tiger Conversation Authority.

Prey base and enclosures are ready and soon trans- location of pair will be done, the minister said.