Amravati, 08 May (HS): The inflorescence in bamboo

plants in the northern parts of Melghat is an issue of discussion among the tribals

in the region. Bamboo plants produce flowers once in 50 to 70 years, and the

tribals believe that this is an indication of a bad period for them. The

superstition of the bad omen is being discussed, considering it a major problem in

their life.

The bamboo flowers and seeds are a delicacy for the rodents.

If present in large numbers, rodents cause heavy damage to the crops and other

belongings. This may be the cause of fear among the villagers. The bamboo tree produces

flowers and seeds once in its life. The change in colour of the forest,

particularly in the patch between Hatru and Jaroda village and on Biba Road, can be

seen because of the flowering bamboo plants.

The flowers are round and weak. During the flowering

stage large number of rodents can be seen around the plants, waiting for the

flowers to fall.

The social organisations working in Melghat have

appealed to the Forest Department to collect the bamboo seeds for plantation at

various places.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Ajay Vasant Mardikar