Barmer: The khejri, Rajasthan’s state tree and a lifeline of the Thar, is under threat. Green khejri trees are drying up fast in Chaudhary Bhunaramji Godara Nagar, a revenue village under Kumpaliya gram panchayat in Gida area of Balotra district. A hard white crust, like lime or stone, is forming on the ground around the trunks and roots.
According to villagers, more than 50 khejri trees in the fields have been affected, while other trees also show similar symptoms. Randhir Singh Godara, a former panch of Kumpaliya, is trying to save the trees. Farmers and environment lovers have asked the administration to investigate the problem and find a lasting solution.
Fears of Environmental Damage
In times of famine, the khejri provides fodder for animals in the form of loong (leaf fodder). Its sangri (pods) is a nutritious vegetable, and the tree also helps maintain soil fertility.
According to agricultural experts, the soil, irrigation water and roots of both affected and healthy trees need to be tested. A joint team of the agricultural university and the agriculture department can carry out a survey to find the actual causes.
Treatment With Manure and Pesticides Unsuccessful
According to Randhir Singh Godara, a white layer resembling fungus is forming around the roots. This is feared to affect moisture and nutrients reaching the roots and may lead to root rot. Early treatment with water, manure and pesticides has not worked.
However, the actual cause of the problem has not yet been established scientifically. Possible causes include salt accumulation in the soil, high alkalinity, excess sodium, poor drainage, or root-related diseases.
Zila Parishad member Daulatram Godara has written to the collector, demanding that a team of experts be sent and scientific treatment carried out.
“To save the khejri, the soil around the roots will have to be made healthy along with the tree. Scientific testing of soil, water and roots can identify the right cause, so that timely treatment can be given.”
Dr Krishna Saharan, agriculture expert and assistant professor, Agriculture University, Jodhpur
“It takes years of effort to raise a single khejri sapling. The administration should immediately take up research and the necessary treatment steps, so that these life-giving trees can be saved.”
Daulatram Godara, Zila Parishad member
