Bandipora records 5.73 sq km increase in forest cover: Govt

Jammu, Feb 18: The Government of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday informed the House that Bandipora Forest Division has recorded an increase of 5.73 square kilometres in forest cover as per the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023.
Replying to a Question raised by MLA Nizam-ud-Din Bhat regarding deforestation activities, the Minister In-charge, Forest, Ecology & Environment Department, said that Bandipora has a recorded forest area of 1,864 square kilometres comprising Himalayan moist temperate, dry temperate, sub-alpine and alpine forest types.
The government stated that forest cover is assessed at the national level and as per ISFR-2023, Bandipora district has witnessed an increase of 5.73 sq km in forest cover compared to the previous assessment.
“About the issue of unchecked deforestation, the government said that no systematic deforestation incidents have been reported from Bandipora district, adding that forest protection remains a core function of the department with continuous monitoring and enforcement on the ground.”
They further informed, that action under relevant forest laws has been taken against offenders. A total of 12 forest offence cases were registered, 26 culprits were booked and seizures including 1,498.86 cubic feet of timber and six vehicles were made.
The government also said, that for enhancement of green cover and rehabilitation of degraded forest areas, afforestation activities are being undertaken under approved schemes during the current financial year 2025-26.
“Under CAMPA, 181 hectares of area has been treated, 31,175 rfts fenced and 2.72607 lakh plants planted. Similarly, under the Green India Mission (GIM), 47 hectares have been treated, 14,100 rfts fenced and 0.15100 lakh plants planted, taking the total treated area to 228 hectares and 2.87707 lakh plants planted,” the reply added. (KNO)