Forest Department neglects its own 'Urban Forest' project in Vadakkanchery

The 'Urban Forest' project launched by the Forest Department six years ago to restore lost greenery is deteriorating due to a lack of maintenance. The mini-forest, created at a former forest outpost site, is now neglected. The project's promised collaboration with local bodies, residents' associations, and environmental groups never materialized. Even local forest officials have no role, as the research division in Palakkad holds responsibility. The department spent two lakh rupees on planting and five years of upkeep. The initiative, inaugurated by former Forest Minister K. Raju, aimed to educate urbanites about ecological services. Locals now suggest the prime heart-of-town location could be better used for a forest office complex or eco-shop.