Kollam: The Kerala Forest Chief has granted approval to the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) to continue cultivating eucalyptus trees, despite studies indicating their negative impact on the water table. This approval pertains to KFDC-owned land, with plans to replant eucalyptus saplings within the Periyar Tiger Reserve also under consideration.

Globally, eucalyptus cultivation is often criticised for its environmental impact, leading to bans and restrictions in several regions. Eucalyptus trees are known for their high water consumption, which can transform even rainforests into barren lands. The depletion of water resources attributed to eucalyptus trees forces wildlife to encroach into human settlements, posing a significant threat to nearby communities.

In response to these concerns, the Kerala government issued an order in 2017 banning the planting of non-native eucalyptus and acacia trees. The 2021 forest policy further mandated the removal of such trees, to be replaced with native species like mango, jackfruit, gooseberry, tamarind, java plum, and fig.

The Forest Chief's recent decision appears contradictory, especially given the increasing human-wildlife conflicts in Kerala. Water depletion due to eucalyptus cultivation could aggravate these issues.

The order to replant eucalyptus was based on a letter from the KFDC Managing Director, seeking permission to plant eucalyptus saplings. The rationale for this decision was the financial impact on KFDC's commercial operations.

KFDC Managing Director George P. Mathachan informed Mathrubhumi that while eucalyptus plantations are still being maintained, the plan is to phase them out gradually.