Home / Environment / Himalayan Slope Blooms After 30 Years of Restoration
Himalayan Slope Blooms After 30 Years of Restoration
14 Sep
Summary
- Restored site now hosts over 160 bird and 100 butterfly species.
- Over 88 plant species established, with significant natural regeneration.
- Community involvement and soil/water conservation were key to success.
In 1992, a 71-acre degraded slope in Almora, Uttarakhand, was targeted for restoration by researchers at the G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment. This ambitious project, known as the Surya-Kunj model, aimed to revitalize the land, which was sparsely populated with only a few trees and shrubs.
Over thirty years, the site has undergone a remarkable transformation. Researchers planted nearly 190 tree species, including 136 native varieties, and implemented crucial soil and water conservation techniques like terracing and check dams. This effort, combined with measures to prevent grazing and support irrigation, fostered a thriving ecosystem.
As of 2025, the restored area boasts 88 established plant species, with extensive natural regeneration of trees and shrubs observed. The landscape now supports a rich array of wildlife, including over 160 bird species and more than 100 butterfly species. Medicinal plants and various flora provide essential food sources.
Community participation was integral to the project's success. Local villagers were involved in plantation efforts, conservation education, and received wages for their work. The establishment of a Nature Interpretation Learning Centre further promoted environmental awareness, involving thousands of stakeholders and students in workshops.
