By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 31: Over the past five years, the Forest department has successfully raised more than 2,400 hectares of plantation to boost the state’s forest cover. The total forest cover in Meghalaya stands at 17,046 square kilometres as of March 31, 2024, representing 76% of the state’s total area.
To combat deforestation, the department is implementing several state and central acts, including the Meghalaya Forest Regulation, 1973.
However, rapid urbanisation and population growth continue to pose significant threats to the state’s forest cover.
Within the Shillong region, tree felling is regulated under the Meghalaya Tree (Preservation) Act, 1996. Additionally, the department enforces various regulations to curb deforestation, including the regulation of wood-based industrial units, minor mineral extraction, and the transportation and collection of royalties under the Meghalaya Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2016.
Other measures include the regulation of the transit of forest produce, tree felling in non-forest areas, and the management of private and community forests.
These efforts are governed by the Meghalaya Tree Felling Regulation in Non-Forest Areas, 2006, and the Meghalaya Tree Preservation Act, 1976, where applicable. The diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes is also strictly controlled under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, and Central Government guidelines.
The Forest Survey of India conducts bi-annual surveys to monitor the state of forests and assess deforestation trends in Meghalaya.
These surveys are crucial for understanding the impact of urbanisation and ensuring the continued conservation of the state’s rich forest resources.
