On the occasion of World Environment Day, a large-scale tree plantation drive was held at Late Ganpat Sheth Tandel Ground in Karave village on Wednesday. The event was organized under the initiative of former MLA Sandeep Naik, jointly conducted by the Sandeep Naik Pratishthan and Green Hope Foundation. In a bid to promote sustainable living, environment-friendly jute bags were also distributed to participants. This year marks the 20th anniversary of this ongoing plantation initiative, a testament to the long-standing commitment towards a greener Navi Mumbai.
Speaking at the event, Sandeep Naik stressed the critical need to balance development with environmental sustainability. “Protecting environmental balance and biodiversity is as important as pursuing development,” he said. His message resonated strongly with the crowd, which included environmental enthusiasts, residents of Karave village, students, volunteers, senior citizens, sportspersons, and youth — all united in their dedication to preserving nature.
Naik highlighted pressing environmental challenges such as deforestation, shrinking green spaces, urban concretization, and the escalating pollution levels affecting air, water, and noise quality. He urged citizens to take conscious responsibility and called for decisive administrative action to safeguard the environment.
“Tree plantation is not just an environmental activity; it is a civic responsibility,” Naik remarked. He emphasized the urgent need for sustainable urban planning as the city faces shrinking urban forests and growing concrete infrastructure. A call was made to adopt plastic-free, eco-friendly lifestyles for the wellbeing of future generations.
One of the day’s highlights was the celebration of community-driven conservation success stories. Naik recalled the protection of DPS Lake, the iconic habitat of flamingos symbolic of Navi Mumbai. Threatened by development, the lake was saved when Forest Minister Ganesh Naik granted it protected forest status. “This achievement is a shining example of what community action can accomplish,” said Naik, expressing gratitude on behalf of Navi Mumbai’s environmentalists.
The plantation drive reinforced the importance of preserving biodiversity and fostering a sustainable urban ecosystem. Naik appealed to citizens to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting nature’s heritage — emphasizing that environmental conservation should be a year-round commitment, not limited to a single day.
