Concrete Is Swallowing Forests

The rapidly expanding concrete settlements in Rajasthan have severely impacted the state’s forests. The latest figures from the India State of Forest Report (ISFR)-2023 show that compared to 2021, Rajasthan’s forest cover has decreased by 83.8 sq km, bringing it down to 16,548.2 sq km in 2023. This is only 4.84% of the state’s total geographical area of 3,42,239 sq km, whereas the national average stands at 21.71%. This widening gap has become a major cause of concern for experts.

The situation in Jaipur district is equally worrying. Out of its 11,138 sq km geographical area, only 564.58 sq km—that is, 5.07%—is now under tree cover. In just two years, Jaipur has lost 2.02 sq km of greenery. Rapidly expanding new colonies around Jaipur city, illegal mining, encroachment, and the unplanned outward spread beyond the Ring Road have become the primary causes of this decline. What adds to the concern is that 318.6 sq km of Jaipur’s land now consists only of scrub, indicating the land is turning barren. Forest cover has decreased in 21 districts of the state, while a few have registered minor improvement.

Barmer Gains 19 sq km, Jaisalmer Gains 11.46 sq km of Green Cover

• Udaipur remains the greenest district, with 23.6% green cover—2,766.3 sq km under trees.
• Churu has the least greenery, with just 0.45%, i.e., 62.73 sq km of forest area.
• Baran recorded the highest decline, with a loss of 33.29 sq km of forest area.
• Sikar recorded the highest increase—up by 19.14 sq km, taking the total to 218.55 sq km.
• Jodhpur, with a geographical area of 22,681.16 sq km, has only 0.49% forest cover, i.e., 111.23 sq km, though it did see a rise of 2.66 sq km in two years.
• Barmer and Jaisalmer have gained 19 sq km and 11.46 sq km of green cover respectively.

Impact of Shrinking Forests

A reduction in forest cover increases toxic elements in the air such as PM2.5, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide. This leads to a rise in asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory diseases. Heat stroke, dehydration, and mental stress also become more prevalent.

What Is Forest Cover?

Forest Cover Area refers to the portion of land that is covered with trees. According to the Forest Survey of India, any area of 1 hectare (about 2.5 acres) or more that has tree cover qualifies under this definition.

Trees are being cut, but not compensated

Illegal tree cutting, urban expansion, mining activities, and diversion of forest land are the major reasons behind the shrinking forest cover. The loss is not being compensated. If timely steps are not taken, Jaipur could face a situation similar to Delhi. He adds that despite rules, compensatory plantation often does not exceed the number of trees cut for projects.