Pune NGO converts dump into city forest

PUNE: A collaboration of retired soldiers and a Pune- based NGO Green Thumb beautified the one kilometer stretch of the Bairobha Nallah (Canal) stretch from Sopanbaug to Anant Talkies. The group was successful in converting the city’s filthiest spot into an urban forest. The group planted thousands of fruit bearing trees, coconut trees, bamboo, neem, banyan, custard apple and drumstick trees for the beautification process. The event was sponsored Rs 50 lakhs by Hinduja Foundation.    

The remodeling project was necessary as it had become a major health hazard for the city due to extensive waste dumping and irregular sewage disposal. The NGO also involved schools in the cleanup of the canal.