SURAT: A massive plantation drive will be launched in the city on the Independence Day to reduce the effects of climate change and humidity through specific tree species. 'VaveSurat' will be taken up jointly by Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC), Surat Urban Development Authority (SUDA), Surat Builders Association (SBA) and many other organizations. The objective is to plant 10 lakh trees on August 15.
SMC deputy commissioner, health, RJ Patel told TOI, "We would hold a meeting in every zone of the city on Monday evening. Each zone would be given a plantation target." There is a lot of land in and around Surat city especially in SUDA areas. Here the land has been converted from agriculture zone and is awaiting development. If certain species of trees are planted in such land it could help reduce a lot of humidity from the soil.
"Bangali Bawal and Eucalyptus trees could be ideal as they grow at least 25 feet in a year and sap a lot of water content from the soil. When ever development is undertaken by a developer on this plot, he can cut off these trees and sell the pulp," Patel said.
The number of trees to be planted would be decided in the next few days with emphasis on survival of the trees.
"We are looking at a scenario where each and every tree planted survives and enriches the climate of the city. We may even launch the drive in industrial areas like Pandesara, Hajira and Sachin. We will come up with our plan on this by August 15," a member of a non-government organization said.
