Raipur/Bilaspur: In a significant step towards wetland conservation, biodiversity enhancement and climate resilience, the Chhattisgarh State Wetland Authority, in collaboration with the Bilaspur Forest Division, launched a large-scale “Green Drive” at the Kopra Reservoir, one of the state’s designated Ramsar Sites. The initiative has been undertaken under the guidance of Forest and Climate Change Minister Kedar Kashyap with the objective of expanding green cover around the internationally recognised wetland while strengthening its ecological balance.
The plantation campaign, held on July 9, focuses on creating a sustainable habitat for birds and wildlife by planting fruit-bearing tree species around the reservoir. The initiative also witnessed enthusiastic participation from local communities, public representatives and school students, highlighting the growing emphasis on community-driven conservation.
Strengthening Green Cover Around a Ramsar Site
The Green Drive has been designed to increase vegetation around the Kopra Reservoir while improving the ecological health of the wetland ecosystem.
According to the Forest Department, the plantation of fruit-bearing saplings will provide a sustainable source of food and shelter for migratory as well as resident bird species. The initiative is expected to enhance biodiversity and improve the long-term ecological resilience of the Ramsar site.
Officials said the campaign aligns with the state’s broader environmental strategy of protecting wetlands through habitat restoration and community participation.
Why Fruit-Bearing Trees Were Chosen
A key feature of the plantation drive is the exclusive focus on fruit-bearing tree species.
Forest officials explained that these species have been selected to naturally support local wildlife by creating an accessible food source throughout the year.
The plantation is expected to:
- Enhance habitat quality for migratory and resident birds.
- Improve biodiversity around the wetland.
- Strengthen the natural food chain.
- Support long-term ecological sustainability.
- Increase climate resilience through enhanced green cover.
By combining ecological restoration with scientific plantation planning, the department aims to create a healthier ecosystem around the reservoir.
Community Participation at the Core
The plantation campaign witnessed active participation from the surrounding villages, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in conservation.
Among those who joined the Green Drive were:
- Sarpanchs from Belmundi and Saida villages.
- Local residents.
- Students from the Government Middle School, Kopra.
- Officials of the Bilaspur Forest Division.
- Representatives of the Chhattisgarh State Wetland Authority.
Participants collectively planted saplings around the reservoir and expressed their commitment to protecting the newly developed green belt.
Pledge to Protect the Newly Planted Trees
During the programme, community members, students and public representatives took a pledge to ensure the survival and proper care of the planted saplings.
The Forest Department emphasised that long-term success would depend not only on plantation but also on sustained maintenance and community ownership.
Officials said public participation is essential for ensuring that the newly created green cover develops into a thriving ecosystem supporting birds, wildlife and local biodiversity.
Green Drive to Expand to More Villages
Encouraged by the response received during the campaign, the Forest Department has decided to expand the initiative in phases.
The Green Drive will be extended to other villages situated around the Kopra Reservoir with the objective of creating a continuous green landscape along the wetland’s periphery.
Officials believe that a larger green buffer around the reservoir will further strengthen habitat connectivity, reduce environmental degradation and contribute to sustainable wetland management.
Supporting Climate Action Through Wetland Conservation
Wetlands play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by supporting biodiversity, improving groundwater recharge, storing carbon and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
The plantation campaign around Kopra Reservoir is expected to contribute to:
- Wetland conservation.
- Climate change mitigation.
- Habitat restoration.
- Carbon sequestration.
- Sustainable environmental management.
The initiative also aligns with national and global efforts to conserve wetlands recognised under the Ramsar Convention.
Minister Kedar Kashyap’s Focus on Environmental Conservation
The Green Drive reflects the Chhattisgarh government’s emphasis on expanding forest cover and strengthening ecological conservation under the leadership of Forest and Climate Change Minister Kedar Kashyap.
By integrating scientific planning, community participation and wetland conservation, the initiative seeks to create a sustainable model for environmental protection while preserving one of the state’s most important wetlands.
The Chhattisgarh State Wetland Authority has appealed to citizens to actively participate in similar conservation initiatives and contribute towards building a greener, environmentally resilient state.
About Kopra Reservoir
The Kopra Reservoir is one of Chhattisgarh’s recognised Ramsar Sites, signifying its international importance as a wetland ecosystem. The reservoir supports diverse flora and fauna, including migratory and resident bird species, making it an important centre for biodiversity conservation and sustainable wetland management.
