Deforestation has led to change in rainfall pattern in some areas of the district. Villagers say they are not receiving adequate rainfall and the earth has lost its water storage capacity.
In recent times, major trees contributing to timely rainfall such as Uttis, Matalo and Chilaune are being destroyed at a shocking rate for timber, said Sushil Nembang, former chairman of the Federation of Community Forest Users.
The problem is not of drinking water. “Deforestation has not only dried up water sources, but also threats of soil erosion, landslide and natural disaster are looming,” he said.
On the other hand, the Forest Office, Ilam, says some locals, who are responsible for preserving forests, are felling trees being lured by money.
According to District Forest Officer Surendra Lal Karna, efforts have been made to discourage deforestation, but they have not yielded.
Looking at the current rate of deforestation, streams and tributaries will also start to dry up, district-based conservationists say.
Deforestation is not the only culprit. The practice of cultivating in and around spring water systems and clearing vegetation has disturbed the water-holding capacity of land, thus drying up water sources, according to forest officials.
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