Bhopal's Massive Rose Cultivation Drive Aims to Transform City into 'City of Roses'
In a significant horticultural initiative, Bhopal has launched a large-scale rose cultivation drive in preparation for the upcoming World Rose Convention 2028. The city, traditionally celebrated as the "City of Lakes" due to iconic water bodies like Upper Lake and Bhojtal, is now ambitiously working to rebrand itself as the "City of Roses." This transformation involves planting thousands of rose varieties and sourcing additional stocks from across the country to create a vibrant floral landscape.
Preparations for the World Rose Convention 2028
Bhopal is set to host approximately 500 delegates from 35 countries at the World Rose Convention in January 2028. The event, scheduled to take place at Minto Hall, will feature live displays, discussions, an international rose auction, and numerous other activities. According to World Rose Federation president Sushil Prakash, the convention aims to showcase thousands of rose cultivars, attracting horticulturists, florists, and tourists from across India and beyond.
"We want Bhopal to burst into color, rivaling global rose hubs like Bulgaria's Kazanlak," Prakash stated, emphasizing the city's potential to become a premier destination for rose enthusiasts. The initiative is not only about beautification but also about fostering economic growth and cultural exchange.
Key Locations and Varieties in the Cultivation Drive
Plantation work has already commenced at several strategic locations across Bhopal, including:
- BHEL premises
- The state assembly
- Minto Hall
Additionally, special rose plantations are planned for Bhopal airport and other prominent sites to enhance the city's aesthetic appeal. Local nurseries are actively cultivating a diverse range of rose varieties suited to the local climate, such as:
- Hybrid teas
- Floribundas
- Grandifloras
Specific cultivars like ‘Iceberg’ and ‘Queen Elizabeth’ are being prioritized for their adaptability and visual appeal. So far, more than 10,000 saplings have been planted, with ongoing efforts to expand this number significantly by 2028.
Supporting Infrastructure and Community Involvement
Bhopal boasts a robust horticultural foundation, with 72 gardens and over 100 nurseries providing a strong base for this initiative. To ensure the success of the cultivation drive, workshops are being conducted to train farmers and students in essential techniques such as grafting and pest management. This community-focused approach aims to blend local pride with statewide collaboration, as highlighted by Prakash.
City officials are optimistic about the economic benefits, projecting that the convention and associated activities will generate hundreds of green jobs in cultivation and allied sectors. This aligns with broader goals of sustainable development and tourism promotion.
Future Prospects and Impact
As petals unfurl across Bhopal, the city's transformation from aquatic charm to rosy splendor inches closer, promising a fragrant and prosperous future. The World Rose Convention 2028 is expected to not only elevate Bhopal's global profile but also inspire similar initiatives in other regions. With meticulous planning and widespread participation, Bhopal is poised to become a symbol of horticultural excellence and cultural vibrancy.
