Paonta Sahib to adopt Miyawaki method to create dense forest

Pankaj Sharma

nahan, July 12

In a significant environmental initiative, the Paonta Sahib Forest Department is set to introduce its first large-scale Miyawaki plantation near the Bhatanwali waste treatment plant this monsoon.

Covering an area of nearly 2 acres, the project will commence this month within the Bhatanwali National Green Tribunal (NGT ) monitored area. Following a successful small-scale pilot at the Yamuna Riverfront Park earlier this year, the project aims to leverage the Miyawaki method to create a fast-growing dense forest.

Preparatory works, including garbage clearance, soil treatment, fencing, gate installation, vermicomposting and land levelling, are nearing completion.

Technique developed in 1970s

• Developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki in the 1970s, it is a scientific approach designed to establish dense forests rapidly
• The method’s success at the Yamuna Riverfront Park has paved the way for its expansion
• The Paonta Sahib Forest Department proposed this initiative in November 2023
• The goal is to create a dense and green buffer over the next 5-10 years
• This will help shield nearby communities from the environmental impact of the waste plant

This season will see the plantation of 700-1,000 tall trees and approximately 3,000 shrubs and herbs. The selection includes native and fast-growing species like shisham, amaltas, khair, neem, semul, tun, dhak and wild mango for the canopy layer. Fragrant plants like harshringar and shrubs such as ber, vitex, karonda, agave, and herbs like nal, munj and dub will also be planted to create a diverse and resilient forest ecosystem.

Social worker and environmentalist Brij Bhushan Aggarwal has urged the Forest Department and government officials to ensure the new Miyawaki plantation near Bhatanwali is accessible to the elderly and disabled. He recommends incorporating facilities similar to those at ANTARA senior care centre near Dehradun of Uttarakhand, providing comfortable amenities for seniors while generating revenue for the government.

Divisional Forest Officer of Paonta Sahib, Aishwarya Raj, stated, “The project aims at not only improving the local environment, but also serving as a model for other regions. By focusing on indigenous species and local topographic and soil conditions, the Miyawaki method promotes biodiversity and rapid growth, offering a sustainable approach to ecological restoration. The initiative will help enhance air quality and provide a green sanctuary for the residents of Paonta Sahib and beyond.”