Southern Command Is Converting Pune Cantonment Into A Biodiversity Hotspot
Nestledon the edges of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, is the Southern Command HQ of the Indian Army. Pune Cantonment is a unique blend of Nature and Military located in the heart of Pune City which also acts as the lungs of the bustling city. Despite its urban setting, the cantonment is home to a surprising array of flora and fauna. It serves as a microcosm of the Western Ghats’ biodiversity, providing a haven for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. The Pune cantonment boasts of a remarkable diversity of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to the region. Therefore, their preservation gains vital importance.
With an aim to conserve the rich biodiversity of the Pune Cantonment, the Southern Command has embarked upon the journey of converting it into a Biodiversity Hotspot. As a part of this project, many activities have been planned and some of them have already been implemented. To begin with, a unique tree census and documentation project was carried out in the Pune cantonment. Simultaneously, QR code-enabled boards were installed on select trees, which besides providing instant access to scientific information about the trees also creates a sense of connection with nature and its vital role in sustaining life. This tree census has gathered crucial data about the region’s flora, enabling better conservation strategies and promoting ecological preservation. The survey has been executed with the help of trained experts from Society for Environment and Biodiversity Conservation (SEBC), Pune and Trees for The Future (TFTF), Ratnagiri.
The project’s next step would be the construction of the ‘Tiranga Tunnel’. It has been conceptualized as a historic endeavor to instill national pride and promote environmental responsibility. The ‘Tiranga Tunnel’ is a one of its kind project that combines creation of environmental awareness through the medium of the colours of our national flag being depicted in a unique manner through flora. Subsequent phases of the biodiversity project will include development of biodiversity parks, creation of lung shaped gardens in the Race Course, creation of tree avenues, establishing of a Nakshatra Udyan and restoration of natural habitats and water bodies.
In this endeavor for the creation of the ‘Tiranga Tunnel’, Southern Command has collaborated with Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) which is also promoting preservation of Pune’s unique biodiversity, Himalaya Wellness Company, a leading wellness brand committed to promoting health and well-being, and the Society for Environment and Biodiversity Conservations (SEBC) which has been instrumental in supporting biodiversity conservation initiatives over the years.
