In a move to enhance recreational opportunities for its citizens, Mumbai is all set to get its first-ever Public Urban Forest. This initiative involves the transformation of a 12,964-square-meter site in Marol, Andheri East, located next to the Mithi River, into a lively recreational area. Currently, this location has approximately 150 trees, and the city’s goal is to revamp it into an engaging nature-centered space.
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The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) envisions this area as a place where environmental restoration meets recreational activities. It aims to ensure that the Public Urban Forest will be a space that engages people of all ages and strengthens their relationship with nature. Local representative, Nitin Shukla from the K East ward, has moved away from previous plans to include this site in a larger urban forest project. Instead, the authorities have decided to utilize funding from corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives for its development.
Public Urban Forest Once Ready Will Also Feature A Miyawaki Forest Section
The Public Urban Forest will also feature a Miyawaki forest section, designated bird habitats, a bamboo garden, native grasslands, butterfly-friendly areas, sacred groves, and zones for medicinal plants. This will foster a thriving ecosystem for both flora and fauna.
Besides, once ready, this park will also offer myriad public facilities, including natural walking paths, play areas for children, fitness zones, and quiet seating for seniors and families.
Pradeep Tripathi from the NGO Green Yatra, which is overseeing the project, stated that the timeline includes removing a substantial amount of debris before planting can commence. Once the urban forest is established, it aims to attract visitors and improve urban biodiversity while tackling environmental challenges in the city.
The exact date, timeline, and budget of this project are still not disclosed, so stay tuned for all the updates.
