In a bid to enhance the green cover of Pune, the forest department is embarking on a significant project in Gokhalenagar. This endeavor aims to establish a five-acre garden and plant indigenous saplings, promising a greener and more sustainable environment for the area.
Plantation Drive:
The forest department’s initiative, scheduled to coincide with their annual half-marathon on June 9th, marks a proactive step towards environmental conservation. Already, over 2,200 participants have registered for the event, each committing to contribute to the cause by planting saplings. These participants will have the option to either take their saplings home or plant them in the designated garden.
Community Engagement:
Chief Conservator of Forests, NR Praveen, emphasizes the significance of community involvement in expanding green cover within urban spaces. Participants’ plants will be tagged with their names, fostering a personal connection and sense of responsibility towards nurturing these saplings. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of local participation in environmental initiatives.
Security Measures:
Recognizing the historical challenge of encroachment from nearby slums, the forest department is taking proactive measures to safeguard the designated land. Fencing the area and deploying security personnel demonstrate their commitment to protecting the land parcel from unauthorized occupation, ensuring the success of the plantation project.
Marathon Event:
The plantation drive is integrated into a larger eco-friendly event, featuring a 21-km eco-endurance run, along with shorter distances catering to various age groups and fitness levels. Collaborating with organizations like RESQ Charitable Trust and Fitness First India, the marathon highlights the intersection of fitness, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.
