Is Ahmedabad Advancing Its Mission for a Million Trees?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Community Engagement: Active participation is vital for the success of urban greening initiatives.
- Technological Innovation: Use of cutting-edge technology like LIDAR for monitoring tree growth.
- Environmental Awareness: Promotes responsibility for tree conservation among citizens.
- Urban Planning: The campaign emphasizes the importance of strategic planning in enhancing green spaces.
- Leadership in Sustainability: Gujarat aims to be a leader in renewable energy and sustainable practices.
Ahmedabad, Sep 18 (NationPress) In a significant effort to enhance the city's green landscape, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel participated alongside officials from the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) in a large-scale planting initiative under the Mission for Million Trees 2025 campaign at a garden located behind Sabarmati Jail in Ranip ward.
This initiative aims to plant 14,000 saplings—featuring Ayurvedic species—across 4,300 square meters utilizing the Miyawaki method.
To date, the AMC has successfully planted over 40.80 lakh saplings throughout the city as part of this campaign, employing meticulous planning, geo-tagging of planting sites, and monitoring through LIDAR survey technology to assess growth and survival rates.
The initiative has witnessed extensive community involvement, including the distribution of over 54,000 tulsi plants during the Shravan month and the planting of significant trees such as peepal, kadam, and bilva on auspicious occasions. On the Prime Minister’s birthday, September 17, nearly 12,820 tulsi saplings were distributed in temples across all city wards.
AMC Commissioner Banchhanidhi Pani, Mayor Pratibhaben Jain, MPs, MLAs, and civic leaders were present at the Ranip event where Patel symbolically planted a 'Putrajiva' tree.
Schools, religious organizations, and residential communities also participated, committing to support the vision of a greener Gujarat.
According to AMC officials, the 'Mission for Million Trees' aims not only to enhance urban greenery but also to foster public awareness and accountability regarding tree conservation.
Plantation sites are mapped on Google Maps, and advanced technology guarantees scientific monitoring, rendering this campaign one of the most data-driven urban greening projects in the country.
Meanwhile, Gujarat has positioned itself as a frontrunner in India's transition to green energy, placing a strong emphasis on solar, wind, and hybrid renewable projects.
The state is home to Asia's largest solar park at Charanka and India’s inaugural offshore wind energy project, while also advocating for rooftop solar installations in cities like Ahmedabad and Surat.
With over 20 GW of renewable energy capacity installed and ambitious plans for expansion, Gujarat is aligning with India's 2070 net-zero goals, bolstered by investor-friendly policies, port-led advantages for wind power, and innovative initiatives such as solar-wind hybrid parks, solidifying its status as a hub for sustainable energy development.