Prayagraj: The Mahakumbh Mela, an integral part of Indian tradition, is renowned globally as the largest peaceful congregation of people. The festival is a testament to the human quest for divine and spiritual liberation, representing the belief in freedom from the continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
Mahakumbh 2025 got underway on January 13 at Prayagraj. On this occasion, all the preparations are going on a war footing. Prayagraj Municipal Corporation has worked round the clock in the creation of a dense forest in 56,000 square meters in just two years’ time. It becomes possible amid the innovative Japanese Miyawaki technique. The green belt is likely to provide clear air and make the environment healthier.
This technique was developed in the 1970s by the Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki. Through this method, it is possible to create dense forests in small spaces. Planting of trees and shrubs takes place closely through this technique, helping rapid growth, almost 10 times faster. This method helps in the improvement of soil quality, biodiversity, and ecological balance as well.
A forest revolution The Miyawaki method, a technique for cultivating fast-growing groves of native vegetation, has gained global popularity in recent years. However, some experts are raising concerns about its ecological validity and application in unsuitable environments.
Developed in the 1970s by Japanese forest ecologist Akira Miyawaki, the method focuses on restoring native vegetation. It involves selecting local plant species, enriching soil with organic matter, and planting a dense mix of seedlings—about three per square meter—to mimic natural forests. For the first three years, weeds are removed, after which the grove is left to grow independently.
The dense planting fosters rapid growth as trees compete for sunlight.Initially adopted in Japan, Miyawaki’s method expanded globally, with projects in countries like Jordan and Brazil. Miyawaki himself claimed in 1999 that quasi-natural forests could be established within 15-20 years in Japan and 40-50 years in Southeast Asia.Ambitious projectUnder the guidance of Municipal Commissioner Chandra Mohan Garg, the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation has made this ambitious project possible at over ten locations in the city.
Maximum afforestation took place in the Naini industrial area, where more than 1.2 lakh trees of 63 different species are being planted. Another region known for garbage dumping is Baswar, where a plantation of 27,000 trees occurred. Such efforts will make the entire area green and would be a boon for visitors.Experts believe that these efforts will definitely help to clean the city’s environment.
Besides this, it will also help in the improvement of the soil fertility. The air quality of Prayagraj has improved a lot due to the Miyawaki forests. It is needless to add that the holy city has set a yardstick for other cities to follow the same pattern, reducing pollution levels.
