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Inspiration Born from Adversity
During the trying times of the 2020 pandemic lockdown, a small team of dedicated volunteers recognized an opportunity amidst the chaos. They focused on a neglected 2 km long strip along the backwaters, dominated by the invasive Prosopis Juliflora (Seema Karuvelan) and marred by illegal dumping and sewage. This area, once a symbol of neglect, sparked the vision for the Bushwalk project—an effort to transform the land into a lush green haven and uplift the community's spirit, proving that hope and resilience can lead to remarkable environmental and social renewal.
Large dump of medical waste
Cleaning and Preparation - A Vision for Change
The transformation began with an appeal to the green tribunal to address the critical condition of these eco-sensitive areas. Within just three days, earth-moving equipment was mobilized to clear away the
accumulated garbage, setting the stage for a thorough clean-up.
Determined to prevent further contamination, volunteers also tackled the challenge of stopping sewage dumping. Research was conducted to identify plants suited to the area’s saline soil conditions and minimal water availability. A significant effort was directed towards removing the invasive Seema Karuvelan trees, which involved extensive manual labor and the use of heavy machinery over the entire 2 km stretch.
Planting for the Future
With the land cleared, the next phase focused on revitalization through planting. Volunteers carefully selected native and saline-resistant tree species that required minimal water, ensuring sustainable growth. The planting extended from the Boom Barrier to the south end of the canal road, marking the beginning of a green transformation aimed at restoring the natural beauty and ecological balance of the area.
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