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Restoration of the Forest Landscape of SGNP (Mulund Region)
Introduction
Natural regeneration is a biological process that can be assisted and managed to increase forest cover and associated ecosystem services. Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR) is a simple, low-cost restoration method that can effectively enhance the productivity and ecosystem functions of deforested or degraded lands. The method aims to accelerate, rather than replace, natural successional processes by removing or reducing barriers to natural regeneration such as soil degradation, competition with weedy species, and recurring disturbances.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park's Khindipada, Mulund area was selected for ANR interventions as the park is grappling with encroachment throughout its boundary which resulted in a loss of tree cover. The park is situated partly in Thane District and (59.24 Sq.Km.) and in Mumbai Suburban District (44.44 Sq.Km.) of Maharashtra State. Khindipada, the eastern end of SGNP for this project was chosen for the interventions.
The site was largely a dry deciduous habitat with undulating terrain. Its habitat was significantly fragmented towards the boundary, surrounded by various hutment colonies. The area was predominantly covered by Palmyra Palms, intersected by various seasonal streams. Several open patches resulted in a fragmented canopy cover, creating numerous canopy gaps. This disturbed canopy cover impacted the understorey and affected the biota thriving on the forest floor.
The habitat was devoid of perennial undergrowth, leaving the land largely exposed. As the forest department was keen to increase the green cover throughout the park range, this site was identified as a potential area where the ANR process could be utilized to improve ground cover and local biodiversity. Before the project's initiation, potential sites were surveyed to identify areas suitable for plantation to enhance local biodiversity. Ladybird Environmental Consulting LLP (LEC) was brought in for its environmental expertise required for the project.
Project Overview
Project Location: Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mulund, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Project Duration: April 2021 - March 2023
Project Partner: Borivali Forest Dept. and iNaturewatch Foundation
Funding Agency: DCB Bank Ltd.
Project Outcomes:
Environmental
- Increase in the green cover and local biodiversity.
- Scientific ANR Model
- Natural regeneration and Improvement in the water and soil quality.
- Carbon sequestration in another 10 years.
- Fulfilment of Biodiversity Aichi Target no. 1, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 20.
Economic
- Employment, Eco-tourism as alternative livelihood and ABS System (Access and benefit-sharing)
Social
- Community Engagement
- Increased Awareness
- Positive Impact on local administration and corporate CSR.
Project Now Stands Complete
Conclusion of Restoration of the Forest Landscape of SGNP (Mulund Region)
The advancements and achievements at Sanjay Gandhi National Park throughout this project have
been significant. The establishment of flourishing deer browsing zones and thriving Pollinators zones has
successfully attracted a diverse array of biodiversity, underscoring the positive impact on the local ecosystem.
The implementation of ANR intervention has yielded favorable results, fostering the natural regeneration of wild species, while the removal of invasive species further bolster the growth of native vegetation. Additionally, the fireline construction and repair of fences and tree guards have ensured the survival of plants. Strategically placed water bowls have become focal points, attracting various mammals and bird species to the park. The installation of exhibits and signages along the three trails has enriched the visitor experience. The project has made significant strides in promoting ecological restoration, engaging the community, and conserving biodiversity. The collective efforts of volunteers, successful plantation initiatives, and the active documentation of flora and fauna have contributed to the overall success of the project.
Project Interventions
Baseline Surveys
Ground Preparation and Plantation
Identification of Canopy gaps
- Baseline Survey and Seasonal Biodiversity Survey
- Soil Analysis
- Tree Tagging and Wilding Protection
Identification of Canopy gaps
Ground Preparation and Plantation
Identification of Canopy gaps
Identifying the potential sites for plantation and connecting the canopies through ANR Method using Google Earth.
Ground Preparation and Plantation
Ground Preparation and Plantation
Ground Preparation and Plantation
- Ground Preparations
- Digging Pits and Trenches
- Contour Bunding
- Tree plantation as Canopy Plugs
- Irrigation for plants
- Pathway Development
Habitat Maintenance
Ground Preparation and Plantation
- Nursery Establishment for creating plant saplings.
- Assistance and Caring new Wildling
- Grass Pressing
- Removal of Invasive Species
- Fire Breaks
Nature Trails and Signage Development
- 3 Natural Trails developed to enhance the educational value
- Incorporation of 12 field stations
- Bilingual Signages about local flora and fauna
- 12 exhibit developments based on biodiversity surveys
Community Engagement
- Stakeholder Meeting
- Corporate Employees and Community Volunteers
- Nature Awareness Programmes
- Capacity Building of Forest Guards and Local Communities
Volunteering Programmes
Volunteering Programmes
Volunteering Programmes
- Clean-Up Drive
- Tree-tagging and counting
- Restoring Forest landscape through assisted natural regeneration
Project Outcomes
Baseline Surveys
Baseline Surveys
Baseline Surveys
Biodiversity Survey: Comparing the before and after scenarios depicted, there is a significant rise of 52% in plant species, 48% in insect species, and 52% in bird species. The species composition, indicates insect diversity constituting 35% and plant diversity at 31% of the total, followed by birds at 21%. Further we recorded nine threatened species; two birds, two mammals, two reptiles and three plant species. This increases the conservation status for the habitat.
Overall, the soil analysis highlighted dynamic changes in nutrient levels that can significantly influence plant growth and ecosystem dynamics.
Canopy gaps
Baseline Surveys
Baseline Surveys
Examination of satellite images unveils a positive shift in formerly barren terrain, signaling effective endeavors to promote greenery and marked enhancements. The formerly bleak expanse now exhibits thriving plant life, as evidenced by the lush greenery depicted in the satellite photographs.
Plantation
Baseline Surveys
Habitat Maintenance
A total of 6,122 saplings, including herbs, shrubs, and trees, flourished at the site, achieving an impressive survival rate of 72.27%.
Habitat Maintenance
Habitat Maintenance
- Nursery Establishment for creating plant saplings.
- Assistance and Caring new Wildling
- Grass Pressing
- Removal of Invasive Species
- Fire Breaks
Nature Trails and Signage Development
Three nature trails, along with 60 signages and 12 exhibits, have been installed at the site. Additionally, 10 activity stations are being developed to offer a range of interactive and educational experiences for visitors.
Community Engagement
A total of 446 community members, comprising 235 corporate volunteers and 234 community volunteers, actively participated in plantation and maintenance activities. They also contributed to nature awareness programs conducted at the site. In the current quarter, 82 community members were engaged, including 28 corporate volunteers and 54 community participants.
Volunteering Programmes
Volunteering Programmes
Volunteering Programmes
- Clean-Up Drive
- Tree-tagging and counting
- Restoring Forest landscape through assisted natural regeneration