In a major green drive, Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation’s (NMMC) Garden Department planted 500 native saplings at Koparkhairane Nature Park under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative. This effort is part of the nationwide ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign, aimed at promoting cleanliness and environmental sustainability.

### Community Participation

Aligned with the vision of ‘Green Maharashtra, Prosperous Maharashtra’, the initiative saw enthusiastic participation from senior citizens, school students, local residents, NGOs, and environmental groups. Their collective involvement underscores the community’s commitment to a greener future.

### Enhancing Koparkhairane Nature Park

Koparkhairane Nature Park, a key urban green space in Navi Mumbai, features a dense Miyawaki-style forest and attracts thousands of visitors daily for walking and recreation. According to an NMMC official, the plantation drive was aimed at enhancing the park’s greenery and promoting environmental awareness among citizens.

### Vruksh Dindi for Tree Conservation

The event included a Vruksh Dindi (tree procession) designed to spread the message of tree conservation. Various organizations such as Shree Nanasaheb Dharmadhikari Pratishthan, Koparkhairane Warkari Sampraday Gramvikas Mandal, and Sant Nirankari Mission joined hands with school teachers, local committees, and over 500 nature enthusiasts, including 150 students.

### Native Fruit-Bearing Trees Planted

The plantation focused on native fruit-bearing species like chikoo, jackfruit, jamun, guava, tamarind, custard apple, black plum, Indian gooseberry, star fruit, and mango. Participants were also encouraged to dedicate a tree to their mother and motherland, fostering a deep sense of environmental responsibility and community engagement.

This initiative not only aims to increase green cover but also to cultivate a culture of care and connection with nature among the residents of Navi Mumbai.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/navi-mumbai-civic-body-plants-500-native-saplings-at-koparkhairane-nature-park-under-ek-ped-maa-ke-naam-drive