Branching Out: UP Govt’s Mini-Forests Set to Cool City Streets

The Uttar Pradesh government has rolled out an exciting new initiative aimed at tackling the challenges posed by relentless heatwaves in its bustling cities. They're planning to create mini-forests in urban areas to help combat the urban heat island effect, which has been worsening due to rapid development and concrete sprawl. This green initiative is all about restoring balance and safeguarding public health.

 

Key Highlights

 

•⁠  ⁠A dedicated fund of ₹70 crore has been set up for the 2025-26 period, enabling 17 municipal corporations to establish green zones—these mini-forests—spanning over 2,000 square meters within city boundaries.

 

•⁠  ⁠The project will utilize the Miyawaki method, a Japanese technique known for creating dense, fast-growing native forests that have been shown to lower surface temperatures and enhance air quality.

 

•⁠  ⁠Locations for these mini-forests will be pinpointed using GIS and thermal data analysis, ensuring that the most heat-vulnerable areas are prioritized.

 

•⁠  ⁠These mini-forests are part of the larger Upvan Scheme, which also promotes sustainable urban planning, biodiversity, and community well-being.

 

•⁠  ⁠This initiative is a direct response to recent studies and disaster management recommendations, with cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, and Prayagraj set to be the first beneficiaries.

 

Outlook

 

As heatwaves become more frequent and intense, UP’s mini-forests offer a promising solution for immediate cooling and long-term environmental resilience. If implemented effectively, this model could serve as an inspiration for similar climate-smart urban planning efforts across the country.

 

Source: Times of India, New Indian Express, Urban Acres