Bhubaneswar: With Odisha government deciding to adopt traditional procedure to prevent death due to lightning strike, extensive plantation of palm trees and protection of existing ones from felling will be taken up.
This was stated by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Debidutta Biswal on Monday. Since palm trees act as good natural conductors during lightning strike and prevent loss of lives, the government had taken the decision in September 2023. Now, the Forest department would implement the decision strictly.
“As per the decision, the department will plant around 19 lakh palm trees across the state in 2024-25 financial year. Four palm trees will be planted near the boundary of each forest block. Total Rs 7 crore will be spent for this purpose,” Biswal said.
“Besides, in order to protect the existing palm trees, people will need the permission of the Forest Department to cut those on their premises. Strict action will be taken against those who violate the order,” he added.
He further said the permission was not required for felling the palm trees in private land. Later, the restriction was imposed. As it was withdrawn later, the palm trees, particularly in rural areas almost became extinct. With mortality due to lightning strike increasing, particularly during northwesterly and rainy season, the government has brought back the restriction, he added.