TFP Bureau, New Delhi; Dec 08, 2023: South Eastern Coalfields Ltd (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India Ltd, is set to enhance the forest cover in Chhattisgarh’s coal belt region through the innovative Miyawaki plantation method. With a significant investment of Rs. 4 crores, the pilot project will be initiated in SECL’s Gevra Area, marking the first implementation of this Japanese technique in the operational areas.
The Miyawaki method involves planting native trees, shrubs, and groundcover plants within every square meter, creating a dense canopy layer of tall trees. Over a two-year period, SECL aims to plant approximately 20,000 saplings, including big plants like Bargad, Peepal, Aam, and Jamun, medium plants like Karanj, Amla, and Ashok, and small plants like Kaner, Gudhal, Trikoma, Ber, Anjeer, and Nimbu.
Pioneered by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki in the 1970s, this method is ideal for small land parcels and results in the rapid growth of native plants that require minimal maintenance and can thrive in challenging conditions.
The pilot project’s objective is to increase the green cover around the Gevra mine, the largest coal mine in the country. The Miyawaki forest will consist of indigenous species of fruit-bearing, avenue, and ornamental trees, benefiting local communities and wildlife. Additionally, the forest will play a crucial role in absorbing dust particles and regulating surface temperature.
SECL’s commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in its investment of Rs. 169 crores over the next four years for plantation initiatives in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. The company, a leading coal producer in India, has planted over three crore saplings since its inception. In the fiscal year 2023-24 alone, SECL brought 475 hectares of land under green cover and planted 10.77 lakh saplings, marking the highest among all Coal India subsidiaries.
Recently, SECL signed an MoU with Chhattisgarh Rajya Van Vikas Nigam (CGRVVN) and Madhya Pradesh Rajya Van Vikas Nigam (MPRVVN) to carry out plantation activities for a five-year period, spanning from 2023-24 to 2027-28. The subsequent maintenance for each consecutive year of plantation is included in the estimated cost of Rs. 169 crores.
