Pune: The Aundh Biodiversity Zone , inaugurated at Vishal Nagar on Tuesday, will be open for students, researchers, environmentalists, and scientists for carrying out research and studies. Over 10,000 native saplings were planted in the zone, spanning 20 acres around Shivneri Biodiversity Lake, as part of Indian Army’s campaign titled “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”. This initiative is a part of a broader 12-year commitment by local organisations such as Shivneri Brigade, Tree Public Foundation , and Cummins India Foundation in collaboration with the Indian Army to foster a native and scientifically balanced ecosystem around Pune.
With its scientific design, the property has become a hotspot for biodiversity, currently attracting and supporting over 156 bird species , 24 butterfly species, and thousands of other vertebrates and non-vertebrates. Abhishek Kawitkar, president, Tree Public Foundation, a city-based NGO working towards inculcating a culture of respect for natural resources by replenishing available land with maximum green canopy and building green lungs for the city, said, “A team of 25 environmental scientists, botanists, pedologists, ornithologists, and other experts have meticulously worked on a baseline study of this area. To really encourage biodiversity, you need to study the soil and the insects present, which will give you an idea of what trees need to be planted.
We’ve planted several mango and chikoo trees after our research.” Kawitkar added, “Our aim is to engage the scientific community in the city as they often don’t get a chance to work on such large live projects. The biodiversity zone will provide some respite from the pollution in the city.
Green spots like these across the city will address the urban heat island effect, help in reducing temperatures, and increase oxygen.” Citizens will need to get in touch with Tree Foundation through its website for a visit to the zone. Permissions will then be sought from the Indian Army, subject to verification.
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