Citizens and environmentalists team up to map Pune's flora

In an effort to enhance the livability of Pune, India, a collaborative initiative began to map the flora of the city, especially along the Mula River. This event, organized over the weekend by groups including Pune River Revival and Jeevitnadi, saw the involvement of citizens, environmentalists, and college students who aimed to record the ecological wealth along the riverbanks. Participants meticulously observed trees, recorded their species, and captured photographs, contributing valuable data that would be shared online. During the mapping exercise, the diversity of the flora was highlighted, showcasing various old-growth and heritage trees that hold significant cultural and ecological importance. This hands-on activity provided students from institutions like Fergusson College with an educational experience, supervised by experts in botany. The initiative emphasized the need to preserve these valuable ecosystems that serve as vital buffers between land and water environments. Prajakta Mahajan, a dedicated volunteer, remarked on the staggering diversity of identified species, including Indian willow and Ficus, and stressed the importance of protecting these natural resources. The participants collectively reached a consensus on the need to safeguard the trees, rivers, and surrounding habitats to sustain the region's biodiversity. This mapping exercise not only served a practical purpose but also instilled a sense of responsibility towards maintaining environmental integrity among the students. Moreover, the event fostered a kinship between participants with varying backgrounds, uniting them under a common goal of environmental restoration. The organizers reiterated that preserving the area’s green cover requires ongoing commitment from all community members. The successful collaboration of multiple civic groups reflects a growing recognition of the importance of environmental initiatives, suggesting a promising framework for future conservation efforts focused on preserving Pune's natural heritage.