Moso bamboo planted in Khotang

By Rajkumar Bhattarai,Khotang, May 31: On the occasion of Republic Day, multipurpose Chinese Moso bamboo, Phyllostachys edulis, was planted in landslide-affected areas of Khotang.

The plantation took place at Chhepekhola in Solma, Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality-2, which lies along the Mid-Hill Highway. 

According to Tirtha Raj Bhattarai, Mayor of Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality, around 150 Moso bamboo saplings were planted to prevent further landslides. 

China sells the shoots of this bamboo species worldwide. It is also used to make various attractive items. Now, these multipurpose Moso bamboo saplings have been introduced in Khotang as well.

The municipality informed that these saplings were brought in partnership with Lumbini World Peace Forum and Global IME Bank.

 Mayor Bhattarai said that the saplings were distributed to various wards as per demand, and Republic Day was celebrated by planting these saplings.

Likewise, representatives from the District Administration Office, all four local security bodies, and other organisations participated in a road cleanup programme, under the leadership of the District Coordination Committee.  

Following the cleaning of the Diktel Kirat Chowk-Alchedhunga Road section, bamboo plantation was carried out at the landslide-prone site in Chhepekhola, Solma.

The Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality, which organised a National Bamboo Conference in March 2024, is now promoting bamboo as a means of economic empowerment for its citizens. In line with this plan, Moso bamboo saplings were brought to the municipality, Mayor Bhattarai added.

China, a leader in bamboo and bamboo-based products, has been generating significant economic benefits from the Moso bamboo species. Experts said Moso bamboo can be cultivated at altitudes ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 metres above sea level, and it thrives particularly well at elevations of 1,500 to 1,800 metres in northern parts.

Moso bamboo shoots are highly favoured. Unlike other bamboo species found in Nepal, Moso bamboo grows like a tree, spreading widely, reaching up to 75 feet in height and it is said to be resistant to insect attacks.