University of Delhi Establishes Urban Dense Plantation in Collaboration with Green Yatra to Combat Air Pollution
New Delhi, February 18.
The University of Delhi, under the visionary leadership of its Vice Chancellor prof. Yogesh Singh has taken a significant step toward combating air pollution by establishing an urban dense plantation in collaboration with the Non-Governmental Organization “Green Yatra”. This green initiative, inspired by the Vice Chancellor’s commitment to environmental sustainability, showcases the transformative potential of eco-friendly practices in urban settings.
Developed on a compact plot of 300 square meters, this urban plantation utilizes the renowned Miyawaki technique, pioneered by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki. The technique emphasizes the plantation of native trees and shrubs in dense clusters, making it an ideal solution for urban areas with limited land resources. The Miyawaki method not only maximizes green cover in small spaces but also accelerates growth, enhancing biodiversity and improving air quality. The whole process is completely organic utilising traditional use of rice bran, mustard cake, vermicompost, Gau mutra (cow urine), jaggery and chickpea powder to fertilise the soil.
Inaugurating the plantation, the Vice Chancellor planted a citrus sapling, symbolizing a fresh commitment to environmental preservation. This was followed by the planting of other native species by the Vice Chancellor’s team viz. Director South Campus Prof. Shri Prakash Singh, Dean Student Welfare, Prof. Ranjan Tripathi, Registrar Dr. Vikas Gupta, Proctor Prof. Rajni Abbi. The green patch now hosts about 750 plants representing 41 species, creating a vibrant ecosystem within a small urban area.
Speaking on the occasion, the Vice Chancellor highlighted the importance of such initiatives, stating, “This venture not only reflects our university’s dedication to environmental sustainability but also serves as a model for other educational institutions to emulate. It is our collective responsibility to combat air pollution and restore ecological balance in our cities”
Speaking about the initiative, Prof. Rupam Kapoor, Chairperson Garden Committee, emphasized the importance of urban dense plantations in addressing the pollution crisis in cities like Delhi, where land availability for traditional plantations is limited. She further added, that this is an experimental initiative for the University. If it proves successful, we plan to extend dense plantation technique to other small land parcels available within the campus. It is a step toward creating a sustainable and eco-friendly university environment.
The University of Delhi’s commitment to sustainability through innovative approaches like the Miyawaki method sets an example for other institutions to follow, reinforcing the need for collective action in combating urban pollution.