Nauni University Experts Collect Samples as Drought Affects pine and oak Forests
2 min read
December 27, 2025
An expert team of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, recently conducted field inspection of Pine and Ban (oak) forests in Solan, Sirmaur and Shimla districts following growing concerns over severe dryness and dehydration impacting the forest ecosystem.
On Saturday, the team of Dr Manica Tomar, Plant Pathologist and Dr Ajay Sharma, Entomologist visited Shalaghat and Pipulghat in Solan district, along with Banuti in Shimla district, to collect samples from Chir pine forests, which are reportedly facing dry stress conditions. The team were accompanied by forest department officials. During the visit, the scientists carried out a detailed assessment of the affected trees and collected soil and plant tissue samples for further examination.
During the preliminary investigation, the scientists observed that prolonged dry weather conditions coupled with incidents of forest fires during last year’s summer months have likely contributed to the present condition.
Earlier, a three-member team lead by Dr Manica Tomar which included Dr Sumit Vashisth, Entomologist, along with other specialised members also conducted a field inspection of Ban (oak) forests in Bogdhar and Bhutli Manal areas of Sirmaur district, following concerns over severe dryness and dehydration impacting the forest ecosystem. The scientists carried out a detailed assessment of the affected oak trees and collected soil and plant tissue samples for further examination.
The team was supported during the visit by BDC Chairman Tejinder Kamal, Vyapar Mandal President Ashok Chauhan, Principal Sushil Kamal, and other local representatives. Residents of the area expressed serious concern, stating that the rapid drying of oak trees poses a significant threat to the local environment and the long-term survival of these historic forests.
The collected samples have been sent to the university laboratories for detailed scientific analysis to ascertain the exact causes behind the forest decline. Based on the laboratory findings, the university will prepare and submit a comprehensive report to the government, outlining the causes and recommending appropriate mitigation measures.
