The State Forest and Environment Department has issued instructions to all regional conservators of forests and divisional forest officers in this regard. The palm tree being the tallest among other trees in its surroundings works as a lightning conductor, decreasing deaths by lightning,” said Mr. Swain. Palm trees also protect coastal areas from storms and cyclones, while its roots protect embankments from soil erosion. Lightning deaths account for about 27% of the total number of ‘disaster deaths’. The neighbouring Bangladesh, which also sees many deaths every year due to lightning strikes, has announced a similar programme to plant one million palm trees.

Source: The Hindu May 26, 2018 16:07 UTC