Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat inaugurated Gauradevi Paryavaran Bhawan, the new headquarters of the Uttarakhand Environment Protection and Pollution Control Board (UEPPCB) at the IT Park, Sahastradhara Road here on Sunday. Rawat said that with the construction of this building, the board will be able to function conveniently and also enhance its work capability. Stating that all are responsible for conservation of the environment, the Chief Minister said that it is important for all departments to work on well thought out plans.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Rawat referred to the environmental wealth of the State that comprises 71 per cent forest area with about 48 per cent of the total land under forest cover.
Considering the requirements of the future, the conservation of water is very important. The State Government is working consistently in the direction of water conservation. Considering past experiences and requirements too, special focus needs to be laid on the conservation of environment, he said.
All must do their bit in order to ensure that the future generations get clean air and water, stressed the Chief Minister.
The State’s Forest and Environment Minister Harak Singh Rawat said that innovative efforts will also have to be taken for conservation of the Himalaya, water and jungles to preserve human life.
He appreciated the efforts initiated by the Chief Minister for conservation of water and environment, adding that these efforts had also resulted in raising public awareness on these vital issues.
Bali Devi, a family member of Chipko movement leader Gaura Devi said that one can imagine happiness only till trees, water and land are protected. She also stressed on the importance of tree plantation and protection of the Himalaya. Raipur MLA Umesh Sharma also expressed his views on the occasion.
Principal secretary Anand Wardhan, principal chief conservator of forests Jai Raj, UEPPCB member secretary SP Subudhi and others were also present on the occasion.