Gurgaon Metro Launches Major Afforestation Drive to Compensate for Tree Loss
In a significant environmental initiative, Gurugram Metro Rail Limited (GMRL) has launched an afforestation drive near Manesar to offset the tree felling required for the construction of the Millennium City Centre–Cyber City metro corridor. The drive, which commenced on Thursday, aims to plant approximately 18,000 saplings in the vicinity of the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) Expressway.
Management and Coordination of the Plantation Effort
The Haryana Forest Development Corporation Limited (HFDC) will oversee the plantation work and ensure its long-term maintenance, in close coordination with the Haryana forest department. According to a metro official, this afforestation effort is a mandatory component of the environmental conditions attached to the development of the metro corridor. To enhance the survival rates of the saplings, native and climate-resilient species have been carefully selected for planting.
Scientific Methods and Official Involvement
The initiative will employ scientific methodologies for both planting and monitoring the growth of the saplings, ensuring optimal environmental benefits. The launch event on Thursday was attended by senior officials from GMRL and the forest department, along with representatives from contracting agencies and the general consultant, highlighting the collaborative nature of this project.
Details of the Metro Corridor Project
The 28.5-kilometer metro corridor, currently under construction by GMRL, is set to feature 27 stations and include a spur to the Dwarka Expressway. This infrastructure project is designed to significantly bolster Gurgaon's mass transit network, providing improved connectivity and reducing traffic congestion in the region. Officials emphasize that the afforestation drive is a critical step in mitigating the environmental impact of this large-scale development, aligning with sustainable urban planning principles.
