As per the agreement, local communities that agree to plant 108 saplings of Pipal tress and raise it with proper care will be offered Rs 1000 per sapling. Communities participating in the program will receive over Rs 100,000 by the end of the program. The amount will be provided in two installments. However, communities who fail to conserve the saplings will be not handed over the second installment.Funding for the project is provided through the Rs 10 million allocated to each lawmaker as part of the Parliamentary Development Fund. As per the agreement, community that pledges to plant the sapling will have to bear the responsibility of raring it. If they fail to do so, the incoming money can be cut off
"We need trees and Pipal trees have been living with us for ages now. I have always been a conscious observer of forest and environment degradation. I firmly believe success of this program will bring more greenery in the rural areas of Parbat," said Lamsal.
He informed nurseries have been set up in Kathmandu and Parbat to grow and deliver saplings of the tree to individuals and communities willing to be part of the program.
"Plantation of Pipal saplings will not only conserve greenery but it will also mobilize locals into development practices. It will help them understand the importance of trees and it will inevitably secure their participation in conserving nature," said Lamsal.
The program has already started in 10 VDC of the district and plans to expand the plantation drive in other areas will be carried out in the days ahead, he informed.
"Many schools, students, teachers and parents have shown interest in this program. We are delivering saplings to those interested nowadays," said Lamsal.
Deforestation due to urbanization has been a major challenge in developing countries including Nepal. In the course of development, hundreds of trees including Pipal trees have been cut down across the country, Lamsal said while elaborating the importance of the program.
"Besides its religious importance, Pipal trees are known for offering shade to people and travelers. Additionally the tree is a good source for absorbing carbon dioxide in our atmosphere," said Deepak Raj Pant, lecture of Botany at Tribhuwan University.
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