The pulpwood plantations in Kerala are significant money spinners for the economy of Kerala. The Kerala Forest Development Corporation plays an important role in the maintenance of pulpwood plantations and has been associated with the groves since 1976.
Thiruvananthapuram nurtures 625.754 hectares of Eucalyptus, 734.320 hectares of Auriculforms, 99.750 hectares of Mangium, 143.857 hectares of Casuarina, 229.347 hectares of Bamboo and 45.816 hectares of Reed plantations.
Munnar has 312.600 hectares of Mearissi and 21.920 hectares of Pinus Patula orchards.
Pamba and Punalur also have sprawling acres of pulpwood plantations.
Apart from the aforementioned reserves, the Kerala Forest Development Corporation is responsible for the upkeep of bamboo groves, reared in separate acres. Punalur (430 hectares),Thiruvananthapuram(250 hectares), Pamba (25 hectares) and Gavi (3 hectares) houses important bamboo estates.
The pulpwood plantations of Kerala are huge employment generators and a major source of revenue for the burgeoning economy of the country. Pulpwood output has been on an upswing. Pulpwood produce raked in Rs.260.99 lakhs in 2000-01 and it soared to Rs.277.25 in 2002-03.
Besides being highly profitable ventures, these pulpwood plantations are popular tourist destinations. They bolster the already booming tourist industry. A walk through the verdant reserves is sure to spell immense bliss. You can feast your eyes on a wide variety of rare breeds, soak in the feel of the tranquil nature and savor the taste of untamed glory.
Last Updated on 25 May 2011
