Panaji (GOA) The latest India State of Forest Report (ISFR) about the Goa’s forest cover which could be based on the analysis of satellite data would be released this year.
The ISFR 2015 published by Forest Survey of India (FSI), Dehradun had showed an increase of 5 Sq. Km. of forest cover as compared to 2013 Report mainly due to increase of 4 Sq.Km. in mangroves during that period.
As per 2015 report, the total forest cover of Goa is 2224 Sq. Km., which included Very Dense Forest – 542 Sq. Km., Medium Dense Forest 580 Sq. Km. and Open Forest – 1102 Sq. Km. which is 60.08% of geographical area.
“The next ISFR will be published in 2017, based on analysis of satellite based data for the year 2015-16,” Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar said in a written reply tabled before the recently concluded State Legislative Assembly.
The Government forest area is diverted for non-forest activities under the provisions of Forest Conservation Act, 1980. The diversions are allowed only for government projects.
As such, during last 5 years final clearance for diversion of forest area is granted for 2 projects with an area of 1.7 ha and for 6 projects of 7.5 ha. “The final clearance is awaited under Forest Conservation Act and tree felling will be allowed only after this clearance,” Parrikar said.
The question was tabled by BJP Bicholim MLA Rajesh Patnekar.
Team TNV