Berhampur: A decade ago, Rangamatia hill near Ramachandrapalli in Ganjam district's Chikiti block was barren land. Today, it is a lush green forest, thanks to Sudhir Kumar Rout, a 65-year-old environment activist and academician who decided to convert the hill into a forest in 2017.
The Transformation of Rangamatia Hill
During a plantation drive, Rout noticed the barren Rangamatia hill and decided to plant trees there. Initially, local people mocked him, but their mindset changed when seeds started germinating. Rout, who is also the director of Aryabhatta Foundation, now plants saplings, sows seeds, and throws seed balls on barren hills ahead of the monsoon.
Seeing the success at Rangamatia, Rout took up other barren hills. So far, he has covered 20 barren and small hills in five blocks: Chikiti, Digapahandi, Rangeilunda, Kukudakhandi, and Sanakhemundi.
Community Involvement and Plant Selection
Before planting, Rout discusses with local people the varieties of trees that existed before the hill turned barren. He plants those species because their survival chances are higher. After planting, he visits frequently to care for the plants and water them. In several areas, labourers are engaged to water the trees. Due to sincere and continuous efforts, around 70% to 80% of plants survive.
Two Decades of Afforestation Work
Rout has also carried out plantation on barren land over the last two decades, spending from his own pocket. On average, he spends around Rs 4 lakh every year on plantation, awareness about a plastic-free society, and conservation of water bodies. Some nature lovers and social activists extend labour for the plantation drives.
Water Conservation Awareness Drive
On Friday, Rout launched a drive to create awareness on conservation of water bodies in Silk City. At each pond, he spent around half an hour convincing local people not to pollute the water by throwing waste. He said, 'We are very happy as some local youths immediately stuck posters near the pond advising people not to throw garbage.'
