Rows of native saplings flourish at the newly inaugurated horticulture nursery in Parsa open cast mine.
• Parsa open cast mine unveils horticulture nursery to boost eco-restoration
🌳Over 20,000 plants from 15 native species raised
🌳Project blends mining operations with green stewardship
Udaipur,Ambikapur : In a major leap towards integrating mining with ecological restoration, Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (RRVUNL) has set up a horticulture nursery inside the Parsa open cast mine. The facility is designed to anchor large-scale plantation efforts and reinforce the mine’s environmental management strategy.
The nursery, inaugurated with a ceremonial plantation drive, currently nurtures more than 20,000 saplings representing over 15 indigenous tree species. These include sal, mahua, tendu, saja, baheda, tamarind, mango, jackfruit, jamun, and neem—varieties known for their deep-rooted role in restoring native ecosystems. Each sapling is maintained under a precision drip irrigation system, with continuous monitoring by trained botanists. Local residents have also been roped in, providing both community engagement and on-ground expertise.
According to project officials, the initiative reflects seamless coordination between the mine, washery, and civil divisions. The concept draws inspiration from the successful model at the Parsa East Kete Basan (PEKB) mine, which has already converted post-mining areas into rich green cover. PEKB’s afforestation record stands at 15.68 lakh trees, including a lakh sal trees reaching heights of 20–30 feet. In just three years, the mine has planted over four lakh saplings across 1,200 acres.
The Ministry of Coal has consistently recognised PEKB’s work, awarding it a five-star rating for progressive mining practices, environmental safeguards, and operational safety for four consecutive years.
“Now, with the Parsa open cast nursery operational, we aim to accelerate afforestation and strengthen our long-term environmental impact, setting a benchmark for responsible mining in India,” said RRVUNL officials.
