Gopalganj: Gopalganj district celebrated a significant step towards environmental protection with the inauguration of Thawe Nagar Forest Park on Friday. The park, spread over 0.5 hectares, was opened under the Nagar Van Yojana by Dr Sunil Kumar, Bihar’s Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The initiative aims to provide a cleaner and healthier environment while increasing the green cover in the district.
Gopalganj currently has very limited green space, with only 0.5 percent of its area covered by vegetation. Officials said the new park will not only improve greenery but also help conserve local biodiversity. The inauguration aimed to raise public awareness about the importance of protecting the environment and encourage citizens to participate in tree planting and conservation activities.
During the event, Dr Sunil Kumar also inaugurated a temporary plant sales centre, allowing people to purchase saplings to plant at their homes. The minister planted a Brahma tree, which is a special arrangement of Peepal, Banyan, Pakar, and Guler trees around a Tulsi plant. The tree is believed to offer both environmental and spiritual benefits, promoting health and well-being.
A certificate distribution ceremony followed, recognising the efforts of Jeevika Didi, farmers, and forest workers who have contributed to afforestation and environmental work in the district. The minister appealed to the public to continue supporting green initiatives and contribute to a sustainable environment.
The event was attended by Forest Area Officer Manju Pandey, Gopalganj and Hathua Forest Range Officer Rajkumar Prasad, Siwan Forest Range Officer Himanshu Shekhar, and other forest officials and workers from the Gopalganj Forest Division. Authorities said the park will serve as a centre for environmental education and help the community engage with nature while promoting biodiversity.
