Experts stress on need to reduce carbon footprints within development framework
PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
There is an urgent need to reduce carbon footprints and safeguard biodiversity within Uttarakhand’s development framework. Further, forests should not merely be viewed as timber resources but as the State’s “lifeline” deserving long-term protection and sustainable management. Experts said this while deliberating on sustainable development in Uttarakhand at ‘Paryavaran Samvad- Focus on Dehradun’s Traffic and Environmental Challenges’ organised by MAD By BTD at the Doon Library and Research Centre here on Saturday.
During the panel discussion on forest conservation and environmental challenges, former principal chief conservator of forest (PCCF) Jai Raj highlighted the practical challenges faced by the Forest department, explaining how political pressures and limited resources often hinder effective forest conservation efforts. Former PCCF Rajeev Bhartari spoke about the historical significance of forests and expressed concern over recurring forest fires, particularly in areas like Bhataroli.
Referring to the Mana Van Panchayat, which spans approximately 850 square kilometres, he pointed out the management challenges associated with such vast forest areas. Another former PCCF Dhananjai Mohan cited the conflict between development and conservation, he said that rural aspirations are changing in the era of modernisation and digital connectivity, leading to increased pressure on forest resources. He suggested eco-tourism initiatives like bird watching as sustainable alternatives. Advocate Snigdha Tiwari addressed the growing issue of encroachments and illegal constructions along riverbanks in Uttarakhand, presenting a legal perspective on environmental protection.
During the session on urban development and traffic management in Dehradun, CO (Traffic) of Dehradun, Jagdish Chandra Pant shared concerns about the rising traffic pressure in the city and the increasing burden on road infrastructure. He appealed to citizens to cooperate in ensuring safer and more organised traffic management.
Professors from IIT Roorkee Tina Pujara and National Institute of Hydrology, Rajendra Pandey emphasised that urbanisation must align with principles of sustainable development, ensuring that water sources and the environment are not compromised. Moderating the session, MAD By BTD founder Abhijay Negi highlighted the role of court interventions and Public Interest Litigations (PILs) in environmental matters. He stressed that environmental protection is not solely the government’s responsibility but a collective duty of society.
