Daltonganj: Latehar deputy commissioner (DC) Sandip Kumar has urged residents to join hands to uproot Parthenium, an invasive weed spreading rapidly across Latehar town, warning that unchecked growth could “eat into the vitals” of the town.
Concern Over Spread
Expressing concern over its spread, Kumar said, “There is hardly any space left where this invasive grass is not coming up. It’s everywhere. I am afraid if this grass doesn’t eat into the vitals of the town.”
“Let sensible and sensitive citizens come forward to curb and contain this menace,” the DC said.
Health Risks and Precautions
Calling the weed a serious public health risk, he cautioned volunteers against removing it with bare hands. “Never hand-pull the grass without gloves. Wear gloves. Put on mask. The grass is notorious for dermatitis,” cautioned the DC.
Environmental Impact
Kumar Ashish, deputy director, south division, Palamu tiger reserve, said, “This grass is a big environmental hazard. It inhibits the growth of the surrounding vegetation and native plants.”
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About the Author
MF Ahmad covers Palamu and Latehar districts and writes extensively on wildlife and human interest stories.
