Bhubaneswar, May 17: In a bid to reduce lightning-related fatalities, the Odisha government has announced a large-scale plantation drive focusing on palm trees, which are known to mitigate the impact of lightning strikes. Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia said the state is taking proactive steps to prevent such deaths.
Speaking to the media, Minister Khuntia confirmed that the Forest and Environment Department has already initiated measures to increase palm tree plantation across the state. "Last year, we successfully achieved our target of planting 20 lakh trees. This year, we have allocated ₹5 to ₹6 crore for the plantation of palm trees," he stated.
The decision comes in the wake of a tragic incident on Friday afternoon when multiple districts across Odisha were hit by heavy rainfall, strong winds, and intense lightning. At least 14 people lost their lives due to lightning strikes, while over 20 others were injured and are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals.
The storm, attributed to a seasonal Kalbaishakhi system, also caused significant damage to livestock and property. Several cows and oxen reportedly died, and homes in multiple areas suffered structural damage, with walls and roofs collapsing under the force of the storm.
The minister emphasized the government's commitment to reducing lightning-related casualties and highlighted palm tree plantations as a natural and long-term preventive measure.
