Navi Mumbai's First Urban Agriculture Centre Blooms Under Power Lines
Navi Mumbai has gained its first Urban Agriculture Centre thanks to a clever land use policy. The City and Industrial Development Corporation (Cidco) decided to develop green zones beneath high-tension transmission lines. This move has now borne fruit with the establishment of this pioneering centre.
From Nursery to National Collaboration
Back in 2008, Cidco allotted a plot in Sector 5 near Utsav Chowk, Kharghar to the Konkan Krishi Vikas Pratishthan (KKVP). The initial plan was for a nursery and Agro Information Centre. Over the years, this nursery gained significant recognition. It focused on growing various indigenous and other sapling varieties.
Many local residents regularly visit the nursery. Its success led to a major development. KKVP recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth (DBSKKV) from Ratnagiri.
Aims and Activities of the New Centre
This collaboration aims to promote urban agriculture, natural farming, and skill development across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The initiative will focus on several extension activities. These include practical demonstrations, awareness programs, and training sessions.
Capacity building and exposure tours will also form part of the program. Special emphasis will be placed on urban agriculture, natural farming, and entrepreneurship. The centre intends to benefit farmers, urban growers, and agri-entrepreneurs from Navi Mumbai and other urban areas.
Boosting Urban Sustainability
Dr. Mandar Geete, program coordinator of KKVP, highlighted the centre's broader goals. He explained how urban agriculture can enhance food security in cities. It also increases green cover and improves climate resilience.
Biodiversity in urban settings gets a significant boost from such initiatives. The centre represents a practical step toward more sustainable city living.
Official Launch and Support
The MoU signing ceremony saw several dignitaries in attendance. DBSKKV's vice chancellor Dr. Sanjay Bhave was present. Dr. Satish Narkhede, the director of education, also attended.
From KKVP, managing trustee Shekhar Sawant and program coordinator Dr. Mandar Geete participated. Senior faculty members including Dr. Santosh Waravdekar joined the event. Their presence underscored the importance of this collaboration.
Controversy and Future Prospects
Despite the centre's establishment, not everyone supports Cidco's land use policy. Many have opposed the corporation's decision regarding land beneath transmission lines. However, the successful creation of this agriculture centre demonstrates one positive outcome.
The Urban Agriculture Centre now stands as a testament to innovative urban planning. It shows how underutilized spaces can transform into productive green zones. Navi Mumbai residents can look forward to more local food production and enhanced green spaces.
