Correspondent
GOLAGHAT, Aug 10: A large-scale tree plantation drive was launched on August 9, at Sonaribeel, Uriamghat, marking a major step in restoring reclaimed areas of the Rengma Reserve Forest to their natural green cover.
The initiative follows the successful eviction drive, conducted since 30 July 2025, which cleared around 4,000 unauthorized structures spread over approximately 10,000 bighas across the reserve forest. Beginning in Sonaribeel, the plantation programme will expand to other reclaimed sites, aiming to rejuvenate the forest ecosystem and ensure long-term protection of the land.
The event was attended by Special Chief Secretary, M.K. Yadava, District Commissioner, Golaghat, Senior Superintendent of Police, Golaghat, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Assam, DIG, CRPF, and senior officials from the Assam Forest Department, Golaghat District Administration, Assam Police, CRPF, along with local community members.
At the outset of the programme, a “Bathou Aaros” was performed by members of the Bodo community, followed by the traditional Bagorumba Dance. The cultural segment was succeeded by the plantation of approximately 15,000 Uriam saplings to enhance biodiversity and restore ecological balance.
Addressing the gathering, Special Chief Secretary M.K. Yadava said that, under the leadership of the Chief Minister and with the cooperation of the Government of Nagaland, 1,400 hectares of land had been cleared in the Rengma Reserve Forest. He added that the plantation drive is a key milestone in ongoing restoration efforts, which will continue until 23 September.