The Missing Forests of Mumbai
Project Statement
Cities swallow up green spaces. The remaining islands of green are crucial contributors to micro-climate regulation, replenishing groundwater and pollution control. Vanashakti carried out a systematic study across 18 sites in Mumbai and its suburbs to identify vulnerable and unrecognised forests, the ‘Missing forests’ of Mumbai, cataloguing 111 species across 42 families. By sharing knowledge about their ecological and cultural significance, Vanashakti aims to create a paradigm shift in the way stakeholders perceive these unrecognized forests.
Project Intervention
The intervention involves conducting a floristic survey between June 2021 and October 2022, utilizing an area-centric endemic perspective and exploratory research methodology. Through first-hand observations and in-depth research, the project aims to capture the current ecological scenario, biodiversity, and historical context of these forests. The study focuses on 111 plant species across 42 families, emphasizing the diverse contributions of 5 herbs, 14 shrubs, 3 climbers, 1 grass, 1 fern, and 87 angiosperm trees. The findings underscore the urgent need for the protection of these unrecognized forests.
Project Outcome
The project's outcomes include a comprehensive report that serves as a call to action for stakeholders to acknowledge, protect, and sustainably manage Mumbai's unrecognized forests. The findings highlight not only the ecological importance of these areas but also their integral role in the daily lives and well-being of surrounding communities. By disseminating knowledge about their significance, the project aims to instigate a paradigm shift in the perception of these forests, fostering a sense of responsibility towards their conservation. The research forms the foundation for informed decision-making and proactive measures, ensuring the preservation of Mumbai's unrecognized forests for generations to come.
