The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken a significant step toward meeting the World Health Organization's recommended standard of 9 square metres of green cover per person in the city. On Friday, the corporation initiated a Miyawaki plantation drive over half an acre of land in the identified heat zone at Hatishuni in the Salia Sahi slum. A total of 3,000 saplings were planted as part of this effort.
Progress and Future Plans
BMC officials reported that under the Miyawaki method, 75,000 trees have been planted so far, with an impressive survival rate. To further increase green cover and reduce temperatures, the corporation has planned to create 10 Miyawaki forests in the current financial year. Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra inaugurated the first Miyawaki forest of this year at Hatiashuni, stating, "We have set a target of planting 60,000 trees in the 10 forests."
Previous Achievements
Last year, more than 75,000 trees were planted using the Miyawaki method at 15 locations. Mohapatra noted that these plantations have transformed into distinct forests, with trees growing over 10 feet tall and forming dense woodlands. The Miyawaki method allows for planting 8,000 to 10,000 trees per hectare, compared to only 1,600 trees using conventional methods.
Ongoing Initiatives
BMC officials confirmed that Miyawaki plantations are also underway at Nagar Bana, near APJ School at Ghatikia, Nayapalli Haja Pokhari, Kalinga Nagar K-6, and near Kalinga Studio. Mayor Sulochana Das emphasized the importance of tree plantation in reducing city temperatures and protecting the environment. "Extensive tree plantation will prove highly helpful in tackling climate change," she said.
Health and Environmental Benefits
BMC officials highlighted that smoke from vehicles and hot air from air conditioners contribute to respiratory diseases. Trees are essential to mitigate the impact of scorching summers. Minister Mohapatra pointed out that Bhubaneswar currently ranks fourth in the country in the clean air list and urged every resident to work toward achieving the top rank.
In the 2024-25 financial year, BMC planted over 20,000 trees using the Miyawaki method at five locations, which have now become dense forests. The Miyawaki technique, which involves planting saplings close together, accelerates growth and creates resilient ecosystems. This approach is five times more efficient than traditional plantation methods, enabling the city to rapidly expand its green cover.
