Under the Mazhi Vasundhara Scheme Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) is set to open two seed collection centres as part of its plans to prepare one lakh seedballs to be used for mass plantation before the onset of monsoons.
The two designated centres to be opened at Mango Garden in Belapur and Nisarg Udyan at Turbhe. Both the centres will serve as collection points for fruit seeds collected by the civic employees as well as retained by residents, students, and social organizations.
“With just two months to gather one lakh seeds, these collection centres will play a vital role in mobilizing public participation,” shared an official from the garden department. Additionally, these centres will also act as educational hubs where citizens can learn about seed preservation and seedball preparation.
The initiative, spearheaded by the garden department, encourages residents to retain seeds from the fruits they consume. These seeds will be transformed into seedballs and dispersed in and around Navi Mumbai, promoting natural afforestation and increasing the city’s green cover.
The garden department has identified 22 indigenous seed varieties, including guava, jamun, and gooseberry.
“The objective is not only to increase Navi Mumbai’s green cover but also to educate citizens on the importance of seed preservation. Many people unknowingly discard seeds that could potentially grow into trees. This initiative seeks to change that mindset and encourage more responsible environmental practices,” said the official.
Through the seed collection program, the department is seeking public participation. Schools have been urged to send students to attend workshops, where they will learn techniques such as soil selection, fertilizer use, and the rolling of seedballs, essential skills for mass plantation efforts.
“Once the collection centres are fully operational in the next few days, we will kickstart workshops to educate citizens on the appropriate methods of seedball preparation. This will ensure that the seeds collected are used effectively for afforestation,” added the official.
