The Supreme Court directive came in the backdrop of Telangana Government’s plan to auction some 400 acres of forested land adjacent to the University of Hyderabad to build IT parks, which led to massive student protests.
Significance of Urban Forest
- Environmental: Provides air and water purification, carbon sequestration, temperature regulation, and biodiversity conservation. E.g., Delhi Ridge acts as a green lung for the city.
- Social: Improves physical and mental health, reduce stress, boost activity, and enhance social cohesion.
- Economic: Increases property values, attract tourism, and support local businesses and development.
- Climate Resilience: Help adapt to climate change by reducing heat, flooding, improving air quality, and enhancing biodiversity.
Initiatives taken by government
- Nagar Van Udyan Program: To create 200 urban forests, involving local communities, schools, and organizations in their development and maintenance.
- School Nursery Yojana (SNY): To connect children with nature by involving them in growing saplings at school nurseries.
- Miyawaki Forest Plantation: To create dense, self-sustaining forests using native species, enhancing ecosystems and thriving in urban areas.
- Greening Guidelines: Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs requires cities to maintain a minimum of 12-18% green cover.
