Shivalik Forest Division Initiates Long-Term Polythene-Free Campaign Post Expressway Corridor
In a strategic environmental move, the Shivalik Forest Division has launched a sustained campaign to eradicate polythene and non-biodegradable waste from its forest ranges, capitalizing on the newly operational elevated wildlife corridor on the Delhi-Dehradun six-lane expressway. Named Mission Prakriti Shudhhi, this initiative is designed as a continuous environmental movement rather than a temporary cleanliness drive, aiming for lasting ecological impact.
Leveraging Infrastructure for Environmental Gain
The 12-kilometer elevated corridor, which traverses through the ecologically sensitive areas of Rajaji National Park and the Shivalik Reserve Forest, has successfully diverted vehicular traffic from the older Dehradun highway. This diversion has led to a significant reduction in littering within these protected zones. Seizing this opportunity, the forest department has rolled out the campaign in the Mohand Forest Range, with plans to expand it across all divisions.
Collaborative Efforts and Community Involvement
Vipul Singhal, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Shivalik Range in Saharanpur, emphasized that Mission Prakriti Shudhhi is a collaborative endeavor involving multiple stakeholders. The Van Gujjar community, local students, and public representatives are actively participating alongside forest officials. The campaign focuses on two key aspects: physical clean-up operations and extensive public education to foster sustainable practices.
During recent drives, teams comprising forest staff, volunteers, and students conducted thorough cleanliness campaigns along forest trails and surrounding areas, collecting substantial amounts of polythene and plastic waste. Concurrently, awareness activities were organized to educate the public on the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on forest ecosystems and wildlife, promoting responsible behavior.
Future Expansion and Goals
Officials have outlined ambitious plans to extend Mission Prakriti Shudhhi to all forest ranges under the Shivalik Division. By integrating community support and leveraging the reduced traffic from the expressway corridor, the initiative aims to transform the region into a model for polythene-free conservation efforts, ensuring long-term protection for biodiversity and natural habitats.
