Punjab Forestry Research Institute, Gatwala, Faisalabad:

Trials of Polyacralamide for erosion control and Seeaweed extract (Natural Plant
Hormones: Cytokinins; Gibberelins and Indole-3 Butyric Acid) for Seed Germination,
through the Chief Conservator of Forests Punjab Central Zone. Trials were carried out on
Acacia nilotica in Thall and slope stabilization in Pothwar Region. The results are
extremely encouraging as 100% erosion control in Pothwar and 25% increase of seed
germination in Thall Region.
The results were communicated to me through letter from Office of The Director,
Punjab Forestry Research Institute, Gatwala, Faisalabad., No. DFR-199/Vol-II/1708-
09 /ATR, dated 18-01-2010. Copies wree forwarded from this office to The Chairman,
PARC and The Chief Conservator of Forests (P&E) Punjab Central Zone, Lahore.
The remarks regarding Slope Stability Trials plus increase in vegetation show that
100 % erosion control was observed but “less germination of Dhaman Grass seed due to
less penetration of water to soil.” This is due to wrong application by the Scientists and
lack of coordination between them and the proposer (Sardar Taimur Hyat-Khan). The
Dhaman seed was most probably sown before application of Polymer and not along with
as should have been ensured.
Unfortunately neither relevant authorities from Federal or Punjab Govt. have
deemed it fit to utilize Erosion Control or Seed Treatment materials despite demonstrated
success. Erosion is causing serious loss to the Nation as soils developed over millions of
years can disappear in a few heavy intensity rains. We are loosing valuable fertile topsoil;
silting dams and incurring tremendous expenditure on road repair especially in the Hilly
and Mountain areas. Seed germination is also quite low and breaking of dormancy is not
induced. Secondly as plants determine their genetic expression during the first 15 days
after treatment and no nutrients are provided to the seed the plant faces curtailment of
yield at inception.
This is criminal negligence and should be highlighted and supported.

Sardar Taimur Hyat-Khan

Bioenvironmental Consultant
PARC, Islamabad.