In a significant step towards environmental sustainability, the citizens of Wanowrie, along with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), are set to inaugurate a unique Overhead Terrace Garden at Mahatma Phule Sanskrutik Bhavan on February 14, blending love for nature with Valentine’s Day celebrations.
Maithili Manakwad, Secretary of the Wanowrie Residents’ Forum, shared insights into the project’s inception and development. “PMC’s directive to establish terrace gardens in all ward offices inspired our initiative. Having successfully implemented a similar project on Ghole Road four years ago, we aimed to replicate the success in our own ward – Wanowrie-Ramtekdi.”
Describing the project as a zero-waste endeavor, Manakwad explained, “We’ve utilized materials like crates, bamboos, old flexes, and more. The terrace garden, covering a sprawling 8,000 sq ft, is a testament to community-driven efforts. Without financial assistance from politicians, the entire Wanowrie community, along with PMC and two NGOs, came together for this green initiative.”
Work on the Terrace Garden began in April 2023, facing delays due to various reasons. However, with a more extensive land allocation, the project is now ready for inauguration. Manakwad emphasized, “This is a citizen-led initiative, showcasing our love for trees, the environment, and sustainability. Valentine’s Day, a global celebration of love, was chosen for the inauguration to symbolize our affection for nature.”
Unique Highlights of the Terrace Garden Project:
- Butterfly Garden: Creating a haven for butterflies, promoting biodiversity.
- Oxyzone: Ensuring the generation of clean and fresh oxygen.
- Arogyam Dhansampada: Cultivating a wealth of health through greenery.
- Natural Black Gold: Implementing composting for rich and organic soil.
- Recycled & Reused: Utilizing discarded materials creatively for a sustainable environment.
- Vegetable Patch: Growing organic vegetables within the terrace garden.
- Bamboo Hut: Constructing structures using eco-friendly bamboo.
- Fruit Trees & More: Incorporating a diverse range of plants created from waste materials.
The Terrace Garden inauguration on Valentine’s Day stands as a testament to the community’s dedication to fostering a sustainable and green future for Wanowrie.
