Sightings of tall trees with thick girth which are older than 30-40 years of age are difficult to find due to deforestation
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Hyderabad: The Shivaram wildlife sanctuary, spread over 30 sq km, is witnessing serious degradation of the forest says a recent study. Prof. E.N. Murthy of Satavahana University, reported, “Sightings of tall trees with thick girth which are older than 30-40 years of age are difficult to find due to deforestation. Only a few saplings of teak and other hardwood trees were noticed. Deforestation will lead to soil erosion and ultimately silt up the stretch of Godavari river passing through the forest in which marsh crocodiles reside.”
He also pointed to the prevalence of alien plant species in the forest, even in the core areas, especially Hyptis suaveolens, a native plant species of North and South America. Prof. Murthy said the sanctuary has water all round the year. “This attracts illegal fishermen, some of whom resort to dynamiting fish.” Asked about this, Karimnagar (East), divisional forest officer said, "There is no deforestation, illegal fishing, sand mining or poaching. There is no excessive human interference.”
( Source : deccan chronicle )
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