ForestRestoration – Udhampur Launches Major Replantation After Flood Damage

ForestRestoration – The Forest Department in Udhampur district has begun an extensive plantation campaign to restore land damaged by flash floods and relentless rainfall in August 2025. The effort, launched under the “Green Udhampur” mission, aims to rebuild forest areas and revenue land that suffered heavy losses during the natural disaster.

Massive Plantation Effort in Flood-Hit Areas

In the aftermath of the floods, large stretches of woodland were left stripped of trees, while soil erosion further weakened the affected terrain. To address the ecological setback, central nurseries located in Mand and Pangra have been working at full capacity. Officials confirmed that more than 80,000 saplings are being cultivated and distributed for plantation across the district.

The department has prioritized zones that were most severely hit. Fast-growing tree species are being planted to stabilize the soil and accelerate green cover restoration. By focusing on these varieties, authorities expect quicker environmental recovery and improved resilience against future weather events.

Swift Administrative Response After August Rains

Ayush Gupta, Range Officer of the Forest Department in Udhampur, said immediate steps were taken once the scale of destruction became clear. According to him, the flash floods in August and September caused widespread damage to both forest and revenue land, including the uprooting of trees and degradation of soil quality.

He explained that senior officials issued clear directions to engage with local communities and initiate restoration without delay. Awareness drives were conducted across affected villages, encouraging residents to take part in plantation activities. Saplings, including fast-growing species such as eucalyptus, were supplied free of cost to residents willing to participate.

Gupta noted that between 80,000 and 85,000 plants have already been distributed, with plantation work continuing in phases. The goal, he said, is not only to restore the lost green cover but also to promote long-term environmental stewardship among the public.

Community Participation at the Core

Public involvement has been central to the campaign. Department teams have organized outreach programs explaining the environmental impact of deforestation and the importance of maintaining green cover in hilly terrain prone to heavy rainfall.

Residents have responded positively, with many volunteering land and labor for plantation drives. Officials believe that sustained community participation will play a key role in protecting newly planted saplings and ensuring higher survival rates.

The “Green Udhampur” mission also aligns with broader environmental conservation strategies being implemented in other districts of Jammu and Kashmir, where sustainable land management practices are being promoted.

Rajouri Sees Shift Toward High-Density Fruit Farming

While reforestation work continues in Udhampur, another transformation is underway in Rajouri district. Farmers there are increasingly moving away from traditional cereal crops and adopting ultra-high-density fruit farming.

Local resident Irshad Ahmad said several orchards and plantations have been established in recent years, showing encouraging growth. He pointed out that improved planting techniques and nursery support have helped boost productivity. According to him, pear and walnut cultivation has expanded significantly, supported by greenhouse facilities and departmental guidance.

Ahmad also urged more residents to collaborate with horticulture authorities to benefit from training and financial assistance schemes tied to modern farming practices.

Officials Encourage Income Diversification

Horticulture Development Officer Anil Sharma emphasized that returns from crops such as maize have not been sufficient to meet the economic needs of many farmers. He said progressive cultivators across the region are generating stronger incomes through high-density fruit plantations.

Sharma added that his outreach visits are aimed at educating farmers about alternative agricultural models that can improve profitability while making better use of available land. By introducing improved planting systems and technical support, the department hopes to create sustainable income opportunities across rural areas.

Together, these parallel initiatives in Udhampur and Rajouri reflect a broader push toward environmental recovery and agricultural modernization in Jammu and Kashmir, combining ecological restoration with economic resilience.