Jhansi: An MoU was signed between Jhansi Rail Division and the forest department, Government of Uttar Pradesh, to promote environmental conservation and green development here on Tuesday. The agreement was executed by the senior divisional engineer (O&F), Gaurav and divisional forest officer Neeraj Arya in the presence of the divisional railway manager, Anirudh Kumar, and the chief conservator of forests, Bundelkhand, H V Girish.In the agreement, a total of 3.39 hectares of railway land has been identified to be enriched through massive plantation. Out of this, dense plantation is proposed to be carried out on 2.7 hectares using the Japanese urban afforestation method, Miyawaki. The method is considered highly effective in developing dense, self-sustaining, and biodiversity-rich forests in a limited area within a short span of time.Under the Miyawaki method, native and indigenous plant species are planted at high density, enabling forests to grow nearly 10 times faster than conventional plantation methods. The technique helps absorb carbon dioxide, improves air quality, prevents soil erosion, and provides a natural habitat for birds, insects, and other fauna. After the initial maintenance period, these forests become self-sustaining, making the method a durable and effective long-term solution.The officials informed that the agreement aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 13 (Climate Action), Goal 15 (Life on Land), and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and will significantly contribute towards their achievement.DRM Anirudh Kumar said, “Indian Railways considers environmental protection an integral part of its work culture and continuously promotes green initiatives. Miyawaki plantation on railway land will strengthen ecological balance and help ensure a cleaner environment for future generations”. Chief conservator of forests HV Girish said that coordination between the Railways and the forest department will prove to be an exemplary initiative in the field of environmental conservation. He added that the forest department will provide protection and maintenance for a period of four years.
