Pune Forest Department to Organise Plantation Drive Near Van Bhavan
Pune Forest Department to Organise Plantation Drive Near Van Bhavan
Join the race on 9th June and take home a tree sapling to plant or donate.
17 May 2024
By Payoshi Bisht
The Forest Department has unveiled plans to organise a plantation drive on five acres of land near Van Bhavan, adjacent to Nakshatra Garden. In a press conference held on Thursday, N R Praveen, the Chief Conservator of Forest, announced the initiative, emphasising the department’s commitment to planting indigenous trees with the help of volunteers.
“We will take care of these plants for the next five years. People will be able to track the plantation with their name tag and can visit the garden at any time of the year,” said Praveen. This initiative aims to foster community involvement in environmental conservation and provide a lasting green space for the public.
Deepak Pawar, Assistant Conservator of Forest, Pune division, stated that, “This is more of a plantation drive amidst the marathon that is being held. We urge people to join this initiative of the Forest Department by taking part in the marathon and planting a sapling in their homes as a token of their contribution in the environment conservation. For those, who are unable to plant a sapling in their homes, we have decided to plant those saplings in the five acres of area designated near the Van Bhavan with the names of the participants. We will take care of that area and help the plants grow and people can visit the garden anytime.”
Vrukshathon Set for 9th June
In conjunction with this project, the Forest Department, along with other partners, has organised ‘Vrukshathon,’ a half marathon event scheduled for 9th June. The marathon features various race categories to cater to different age groups and fitness levels, including:
- Half Marathon (21 km – Eco-Endurance Run)
- 10 km (The Green Sprint)
- 5 km (Nature’s Dream Run)
- 3 km Fun Walk for children and senior citizens
Until now, at least 2,000 participants have registered for the event, with the last date for application being 31st May. Each participant will receive a tree sapling to plant. For those unable to take the sapling home, there is an option to donate it to the Vrukshathon Garden, where it will be cared for over the coming years.
