March 2026, Greater Noida.
The Greater Noida Authority has initiated a large-scale afforestation project to develop a forest area near Raipur Bangar. Under this project, nearly 100,000 native trees will be planted using the Miyawaki technique. The initiative is being carried out through Corporate Social Responsibility funding with support from PNB Housing Finance and Catch Foundation.
The plantation drive was inaugurated by Shrilakshmi VS, Additional Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Noida Authority, who planted saplings to mark the beginning of the project. She emphasized the importance of expanding green spaces in rapidly developing urban regions and highlighted that such initiatives contribute significantly to environmental protection and sustainable development.
The authority has provided land from the green belt area near Raipur Bangar for the project. According to Ajit Bhai Patel, Senior Manager of the Horticulture Department, the plantation initiative has been planned considering the industrial activities in the surrounding area. Developing a dense green belt is expected to help maintain ecological balance and improve environmental conditions in the region.
The project has been designed under the Catch Forest Conservation System using the Miyawaki plantation method. This technique is widely recognized for creating dense native forests in urban landscapes. The approach focuses on restoring soil health, planting diverse indigenous species close together, and creating multi-layered vegetation that accelerates forest growth.
Experts say that forests developed through the Miyawaki method grow significantly faster than traditional plantations. Within a few years, these saplings can develop into dense and self-sustaining ecosystems that support biodiversity and ecological balance.
All the trees to be planted under the project will be native species. Native plants adapt better to local climatic conditions and help strengthen the natural ecosystem. Once the plantation matures, the area is expected to transform into a dense forest environment.
Catch Foundation will be responsible for maintaining and monitoring the plantation for a period of three years. The maintenance plan includes systematic irrigation, soil nourishment, mulching, monitoring plant survival rates, and filling any gaps with additional saplings when necessary.
Environmental experts believe that urban forests can address several ecological challenges. They help improve air quality, absorb carbon, reduce urban heat, and restore soil health. Such green spaces also provide natural habitats for birds and other small wildlife.
This initiative highlights the growing role of corporate CSR programs in addressing environmental challenges in rapidly urbanizing regions. Collaborative efforts between corporate organizations, local authorities, and environmental groups can help create sustainable ecological assets for cities.
The plantation event was attended by Satish Kumar Singh, Chief Human Resources Officer of PNB Housing Finance, Veena Kamat, Company Secretary, and Anubhav Rajput, IT Head. Bharat Sisodiya, Founder and President of Catch Foundation, also participated in the tree plantation drive.
The project is expected to significantly enhance green cover in Greater Noida and contribute to long-term environmental sustainability in the region.
