Mumbai: Urban forest to bloom in Chembur with BMC's new initiative

Pic/BMC

In a remarkable effort to enhance the green cover and environmental health of Mumbai, an urban forest named 'Nagri Forest' has been inaugurated in Sharad Narayan Acharya Udyan, Chembur. This visionary project is a collaborative endeavor between the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the IIFL Foundation. The project was officially launched by Additional Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide, who highlighted the significance of nurturing trees that sustain the lives of the city's residents, an official statement by the civic body said on Tuesday.

The initiative seeks to address environmental concerns by creating urban forests using a unique method, known for its effectiveness in promoting rapid and dense growth of native plant species. This strategic planting of 10,264 saplings representing 48 indigenous species within a 2,500 square meter area is made possible through the social responsibility fund provided by the IIFL Foundation, the statement said.

Speaking at the launch event, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Eastern Suburbs) Ashwini Bhide emphasized the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in nurturing and safeguarding Mumbai's green spaces. She called upon organisations to actively contribute to the expansion of urban forests in the city through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, the statement said.

The event witnessed the participation of key dignitaries including Deputy Commissioner (Parks) Kishore Gandhi, M West Division Assistant Commissioner Vishwas Mote, Park Superintendent Jitendra Pardeshi, IIFL Foundation Director Madhu Jain, and several other respected figures. Adding a youthful touch, 25 students from municipal schools took part in the tree plantation program, underlining the importance of engaging the younger generation in environmental conservation efforts, according to the official statement.

The BMC remains steadfast in its commitment to both environmental preservation and the expansion of green areas across the city. The Nagri Forest initiative showcases a diverse array of indigenous trees, including fruit-bearing trees, flowering plants, and those with medicinal properties. Notable species within the forest include tamarind, palas, karanj, behda, sawar, ratangunj, teak, sitafal, bell, parijatak, kadunimb, bamboo, guava, putrajeeva, sita ashok, harda, khair, jambhul, moh, bahava, suru, badam, ritha, sheesam, Bakul, Arjuna, Fanas, Amla, and Kadamba, the statement said.

With the creation of Nagri Forest, Mumbai takes a significant stride toward a greener and more sustainable future. As urban forests like Nagri Forest emerge, they play a pivotal role in fostering biodiversity, improving air quality, and offering serene spaces for both residents and wildlife to thrive. This project's success sets a positive precedent for future urban green initiatives, ensuring a healthier and vibrant urban landscape.