Clean forest: Operation Green Grass launched in jungles

Kozhikode: The forest department has launched 'Operation  Green Grass' to ensure cleaner forests in the state as part of implementing Green Protocol in the jungle zones. Mr Surendra Kumar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, issued an order on April 9 in this respect to divisional forest officers and wildlife wardens of the state. The move is part of implementing Green Protocol in the department.

According to the direction, a spot fine of Rs 2,000 would be slapped on offenders who litter jungle zones. Refusal to pay the amount will lead to prosecution of the offender under the Wildlife Protection Act- 1972. The fine would go to the account of the development agency which oversees the cleanliness of the forest region.The move is in the wake of a high influx of disposables especially in the form of plastic from visitors in protected areas, including national parks, sanctuaries and community reserves causing grave environmental pollution. The littered stuff which contain food particles attract wildlife to the spot causing a threat to wildlife health, the order said. Section 32 of the Wildlife protection Act 1972 bans the use of injurious substances , chemicals, explosives or any other substances in protected areas.

All protected areas should have Green Protocol to minimize and manage waste. Every protected area will have Green Protocol committees to execute  protocol.