Pune: NIBM Forest Volunteer Group Launches Urban Forest Mission, Plants First Eight Native Trees
Pune: NIBM Forest Volunteer Group Launches Urban Forest Mission, Plants First Eight Native Trees
Renuka Suryavanshi
Pune, June 29, 2026: A major community-driven environmental initiative took its first step on Sunday, June 29, 2026 as the NIBM Forest Volunteer Group planted the first eight native trees under its ambitious urban forest restoration project. The saplings, each capable of living for more than a century, mark the beginning of a long-term vision to develop a dense native forest with 30,000 trees in the NIBM area.
The plantation drive represents the culmination of weeks of preparation by volunteers working in coordination with the Maharashtra Forest Department. The groundwork included land preparation, soil improvement, excavation of plantation pits and planning for sustainable ecological restoration.
While the first phase of plantation has begun, members of the volunteer group emphasised that the real challenge lies in ensuring the long-term survival and growth of the trees. The initiative will now focus on regular watering, mulching, soil care, protection from damage and continuous monitoring, supported by active community participation.
The group has appealed for continued cooperation from the Maharashtra Forest Department, Water Supply Department, Electricity Department, local civic authorities, Resident Welfare Associations, educational institutions, corporate CSR partners, non-governmental organisations and environmentally conscious citizens to help sustain the project.
According to the organisers, the long-term objective is to transform the area into a thriving native forest that will improve biodiversity, enhance groundwater recharge, reduce local temperatures and create a natural habitat for birds and wildlife while contributing to a greener and healthier Pune.
The NIBM Forest Volunteer Group has invited residents to join the movement by volunteering, adopting trees, contributing resources and spreading awareness. Organisers said the planting of the first eight trees is only the beginning of a larger mission to create a lasting environmental legacy for future generations.
