CM Bhupendra Patel Unveils Massive Sarvodaya Van in Porbandar
CM Bhupendra Patel launched the 14-hectare Sarvodaya Van in Porbandar and inaugurated development projects worth Rs 113 crore during Van Mahotsav.
In a significant boost to Gujarat's green cover, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the Sarvodaya Van at Odadar in Porbandar on Thursday. The event, held during the 77th State-Level Van Mahotsav, marks a major milestone in the state's environmental conservation efforts in the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi.
The newly developed Sarvodaya Van spans 14 hectares and was constructed at a cost of Rs. 20 crore. It boasts a diverse ecosystem featuring approximately 1.5 lakh saplings representing nearly 70 different plant species.
A Tribute to Public Service and Environment
The inauguration carries special significance as it marks the launch of Gujarat’s 25th Sanskrutik Van, a tribute to the 25 years of public service of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Patel emphasized that Van Mahotsav represents Gujarat's firm resolve to balance rapid industrial development with environmental protection.
"The Prime Minister has created a robust ecosystem for environmental conservation in the state, ensuring that development goes hand in hand with the enrichment of our natural world," the Chief Minister stated.
Massive Infrastructure and Social Welfare Push
Beyond the green initiatives, the Chief Minister's visit to Porbandar was marked by a heavy emphasis on regional development and social welfare. Key highlights included:
- Development Projects: Inauguration and laying of foundation stones for 14 major projects worth Rs. 113 crore in the Porbandar district.
- Housing Support: Distribution of free housing plots to nomadic families.
- Empowerment: Provision of various aids and appliances to Divyangs (persons with disabilities).
- Rural Support: Distribution of forest produce cheques to various concerned villages and talukas.
Surging Green Cover and Wildlife Success
The Chief Minister shared impressive statistics regarding Gujarat's ecological progress over the last two decades. According to the state data, forest cover has increased by 70.64 square kilometres, while tree cover has expanded by 2,596 square kilometres. Notably, mangrove cover has also seen a rise of 253 square kilometres.
The success of the 'Van Kavach' and 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiatives was also highlighted. Under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 3.0' campaign, the state has already completed the plantation of 6.9 crore saplings, far exceeding the initial target of 3 crore.
The wildlife sector has seen similar triumphs. The lion population in the state has climbed to 851, with the Barda region emerging as a significant new habitat. Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia noted that since the first lion arrived in the Barda Hills in 2023, the area is now home to 26 lions.
Future Vision for Porbandar
Minister Modhwadia detailed an ambitious roadmap for Porbandar, including:
- Approval for safari parks at Jungle Safari and Devalia.
- A planned bird sanctuary at a cost of Rs. 200 crore and another at Medha Creek.
- An international shipbuilding yard at Kuchhadi, estimated at Rs. 27,000 crore.
- Four major expressway projects worth Rs. 1 lakh crore connecting Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Porbandar.
Minister of State for Forest and Environment, Pravin Mali, concluded by praising the unique marine and terrestrial biodiversity of the district, specifically mentioning the rare pangolin found in the Barda Sanctuary, which adds to the region's immense natural value.