The Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) has unveiled a comprehensive plan to rejuvenate neglected parks and gardens across the twin cities, aiming to significantly enhance the urban green cover. As part of this initiative, the civic body proposes planting over one lakh saplings in various open spaces that have remained underdeveloped for years.
Transforming Barren Areas into Green Zones
This strategic move is expected to transform barren and neglected areas into vibrant green zones, offering multiple benefits to residents. The initiative will improve the urban environment, reduce pollution, enhance air quality, provide shade, support biodiversity, and create pleasant public spaces for walking, recreation, and relaxation. The overall visual appeal of the city is also likely to see a marked improvement.
Community-Driven Approach with NGO Partnerships
The project will be implemented with the active support and participation of non-governmental organisations (NGOs), which will play a pivotal role in plantation and maintenance activities. The HDMC has approached several NGOs and invited them to partner in reviving these parks. Their involvement is expected to ensure better upkeep, regular monitoring, and long-term sustainability of the saplings. This collaboration reflects a practical, community-driven approach to urban development, where the municipal corporation handles planning and coordination while NGOs contribute expertise, manpower, and commitment to maintenance.
If implemented effectively, the project could serve as a model for urban greening and civic participation, demonstrating how shared responsibility can lead to sustainable city development.
Survey Underway for Sapling Planting
Shashank, head of the water programme at Bengaluru-based SayTrees Environmental Trust, confirmed that a memorandum of understanding has already been signed with the HDMC. He stated that a survey is currently underway to assess the number of saplings to be planted and other requirements. "Once the survey is completed, SayTrees will begin planting one lakh saplings in the undeveloped parks and gardens," he added.
HDMC commissioner Rudresh Ghali noted that SayTrees has already begun surveying neglected parks. He said the NGO will operate and maintain the parks for three years, which will include protecting saplings and trees, watering, and other maintenance activities. This long-term commitment is expected to ensure the survival and growth of the newly planted vegetation.
Current Status of Parks in Hubballi-Dharwad
According to sources, Hubballi-Dharwad has 722 parks spread across 82 wards. Of these, 135 parks are fully developed, 350 are partially developed, while as many as 237 parks remain neglected. The HDMC's initiative aims to address the neglected parks, turning them into assets for the community.
The project underscores the importance of shared responsibility in city development, with the municipal corporation handling planning and coordination while NGOs contribute expertise, manpower, and commitment to maintenance. If implemented effectively, the project could serve as a model for urban greening and civic participation.
