Host Team: Aparna Bangia, Jayraj, Masira Khan, Tripti Pal, Prajwal Kadam, Anand Pendharkar, Sushant, Reema & Mandeep
Why is there a need to restore Aarey Forest? Over the years, foreign species have invaded this historical forest, degrading the overall ecosystem. With the assistance of subject experts, adivasis, and students, we researched the right local tree and plant species that have nearly disappeared and need to be replanted. We procured saplings of these wild species from various locations, which is always a challenging task since most nurseries promote exotic species. This makes it even more vital to have collective support for procuring, planting, and protecting these declining native species, as part of our environmental conservation efforts.
Keep checking updates on the 'Youth For Aarey' Instagram page.
Method applied: Indian Traditional
Project Updates:
27th Nov 2020: Our mapping of species in Aarey Forest was completed, and we procured several saplings. Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to this project.
29th Nov 2020: On the auspicious occasion of the 551st birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Ji, we launched the #RestoreAarey project with a prayer (sung beautifully by Guru Nanak's Green Army, Mumbai) for the wellbeing of this beautiful earth and her children.
28th Feb 2021: We planted the last sapling of Phase I of this project, pledging to water and nurture them until the monsoon.
26th May 2021: On Buddha Purnima, we began Phase II of this project by planting Bodhi Trees (Peepal), known for being the trees under which Buddha meditated.
27th Nov 2022: We celebrated two years of this project. This wildlife area is now more biodiverse, with local flora supporting the wildlife present. Saplings that were just a few inches tall are now above human height. Through citizen pressure, we have successfully secured this area as a protected forest, complete with a forest patrol station on site. However, political powers allied with capitalists are attempting to take over the entire area, including parts of the adjacent National Park (SGNP). The struggle to protect Aarey and SGNP Forest continues, with over 1000 saplings planted to date as part of our afforestation projects. We are committed to continuing the watering and care of young saplings, with new plantation drives conducted during the monsoon.
Donate:
We are accepting a minimum of ₹350 per sapling as a contribution towards the sapling cost and care for a year.
For contributing via e-transfer:
Ac. Name: Earth4ever Conservation Foundation
Ac. No.: 50200045483347
IFSC Code: HDFC0000239
Bank: HDFC Bank, Hiranandani Business Park, Powai
Please mention #RestoreAareyForest in the purpose/description/remarks while transferring the amount.
Site Visit: Drop a message at +91 98201 20182 / +91 98212 20001 for site visits and other details.