Context:
NHAI will increase Green Cover along the National Highways using Miyawaki Plantations.
Key Highlights:
NHAI’s Vision for Green Highways
- To achieve the goal of covering National Highways with green vegetation, NHAI (National Highway Authority of India) under the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, is set to launch a unique initiative by establishing Miyawaki plantations on land parcels adjacent to various highways.
- More than 53 acres of land in and around Delhi-NCR have been designated for this purpose.
Significance of the Project:
- The development of Miyawaki Forests will contribute towards the creation of a resilient ecosystem, offering a range of benefits to both the environment and the local community.
- Using the Miyawaki method, increasing green cover will enhance the overall health and well-being of citizens living along National Highways and improve the aesthetics and pleasure of commuting.
- Based on the success of the Miyawaki plantations in Delhi-NCR, this pattern will be replicated across the country.
About the Miyawaki Method
- The Miyawaki method involves creating dense, native forests by planting a variety of indigenous species close together. Named after Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, this technique mimics natural forests and encourages rapid growth and biodiversity.
Key Features:
- Native Species: Focuses on planting indigenous trees and shrubs that are suited to the local climate and soil conditions.
- High Density: Trees are planted very close together, resulting in a dense forest.
- Multi-Layered Vegetation: Includes a variety of plant species that grow to form different layers, from shrubs to canopy trees.
Benefits:
- Rapid Growth: Trees grow up to 10 times faster than in conventional plantations.
- High Biodiversity: Supports a wide range of flora and fauna, enhancing local biodiversity.
- Carbon Sequestration: Absorbs more carbon dioxide compared to traditional reforestation methods.
- Soil Improvement: Enriches the soil with organic matter, improving its fertility and water retention capacity.
- Urban Cooling: Helps in reducing urban heat island effects and improving air quality.