Navi Mumbai to Open Seed Collection Centres for 1 Lakh Seedballs
In a significant environmental push, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) is preparing for the upcoming monsoon season by setting up two dedicated seed collection centres as part of its Mazhi Vasundhara Scheme. These centres will facilitate the collection of seeds to create one lakh seedballs, intended for large-scale plantation efforts throughout the city.
The two centres will be located at Mango Garden in Belapur and Nisarg Udyan in Turbhe. They will serve as key points for the collection of fruit seeds, which will be gathered by NMMC staff and donated by residents, students, and various social organizations. With the monsoon season just around the corner, these centres will play a crucial role in ensuring public participation and engagement in the upcoming green initiative. An official from the garden department stated, “With only two months left to collect one lakh seeds, these centres will be essential in mobilizing the community. They will also double as educational hubs where citizens can learn about seed preservation and the art of seedball creation.”
As part of the initiative, the garden department is encouraging residents to save the seeds from the fruits they consume. These seeds will be transformed into seedballs, which will then be scattered in various locations around Navi Mumbai, helping to increase the city’s green cover and encourage natural afforestation. A total of 22 indigenous seed varieties have been identified for the initiative, including guava, jamun, and gooseberry. The aim is not only to boost the green cover of the city but also to raise awareness about seed preservation. “Many people unknowingly discard seeds that could potentially grow into trees. This initiative seeks to change that mindset and encourage more environmentally responsible practices,” the official added.
Schools are being actively encouraged to participate by sending students to workshops, where they will learn valuable techniques for mass plantation, such as soil selection, fertilizer usage, and the preparation of seedballs. Once the collection centres are fully operational, the workshops will commence, ensuring that the collected seeds are used effectively to enhance afforestation efforts. With the launch of these seed collection centres, NMMC is paving the way for a more sustainable, green future for Navi Mumbai, while fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship.
