Undi village on the outskirts of Varanasi will soon have a greener look. According to reports, a natural forest is being developed by using Japan's Miyawaki method of afforestation near the city. Varanasi Development Authority (VDA) vice-chairman, Isha Duhan said that the development authority has sent a proposal for this project to the tourism department.
Being one of the oldest cities of the country, Varanasi is dotted with hundreds of sacred temples and ghats making it a spiritual destination in Uttar Pradesh. The city of Lord Shiva will be soon developed on the lines of Kyoto, a Japanese city which considered the cultural capital of the country and is home to numerous Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. The creation of an urban forest will make Kashi worth living and will support its population.
What is Miyawaki?
Japan's Miyawaki is a technique pioneered by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki that helps in building dense, native forests. The approach is supposed to ensure that plant growth is 10 times faster and the resulting plantation is 30 times denser than usual. It involves planting dozens of native species in the same area and becomes maintenance-free after the first 3 years.
This method of afforestation also helps in environmental protection and encourages eco-tourism.
The plan-tation
A natural forest will be developed in about 36.225 hectares of Undi village. The work of about 4.3 kilometres of fencing has started, which will be completed by July 2021. The proposed area is about 6 kilometres from the Jaunpur main road to the Ghazipur Road Ring Road Bypass.
The wetland will also be developed to maintain environmental protection while keeping this area free from encroachment. Around five to six ponds are also being developed in such a way that in the coming year, tourists can hear the chirping of migratory birds. One of the popular attractions of the forest will be the bird-watching point where one will need to walk inside the park to reach the watchtower where birds can be seen.
Cycle tracks are designed so that the cyclists get a taste of the woodland as part of a longer ride. This place will prove to be a boon for those doing nature photography. Visitors will be able to enjoy boating in the middle of the jungle.
A particular area has been allotted for Yoga and a food court where different delicacies will be served. Solar energy is also used to generate electricity. A wooden bridge has been built so that people can witness the beauty of lotus ponds and floral ponds. The forest will also have its own garden where all varieties of flowers are available.
Once set-up, the forest would be surely be a must-visit in the list of places to see in Varanasi. Here's hoping!
(With Inputs from IANS)