Development of sixth new city forest begins at Mukhmelpur, Alipur

New Delhi, July 29 (UNI) In what could be seen as sign of intensification of ''greening activities'' in Delhi by the state Government, Department of Environment and Forests today started development of the sixth new city forest at Mukhmelpur, Alipur Block with a promise to develop another three city forests this year.

The development of the new city forest at Mukhmelpur was kicked off with more than 200 school children from nearby localities planting more than 2000 saplings in the presence of Principal Secretary (GAD) Rakesh Mohan and Secretary (Environment) J K Dadoo.

The city forest at Mukhmelpur, spreading over an area of 13 acres with a proposed stock of 8320 tree species, is yet another addition to the existing Green Lungs in the megapolis of Delhi. The development is a sign of intensification of the greening of Delhi by the state over the last decade.

The state Government has strived hard to enhance the green cover from just 26 sq. km to more than 320 sq. km during the last eight years.

The city-government plans to develop another three city forests during this year, taking number of city forest upto 32.

The forested landscape is expected to create urban green spaces for combating the problems of pollution in the city, mitigating the effects of urban islands, atmospheric purification, reduction of pest and disease load in and around the agricultural landscape and development of a potential habitat for resident and migratory wildlife. It will also lead to creation of a source of carbon sinks and green machinery for carbon sequestration, improvement of physical and natural environment by controlling various kinds of pollutants, provision of potential means of ground water recharge, improvement of soil productivity and reduction in the impact of climate change.

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