Resource detail

Seeking to rejuvenate the Ganga through a massive plantation exercise in its riverscape, the Centre released the detailed project report on the sort of intervention it plans for the river which will see five states plant trees on 83,946 sq km of identified diverse forest areas over the next five years. The project is to be implemented during 2016-21 in its first phase with an estimated cost of over Rs 2293 crore will be funded by the Centre under its 'Namami Gange' programme and will help in absorbing water and dealing with soil erosion. 40 types of plants with high water retention capacity, including several shrubs of medicinal value, have been identified for this purpose.