Chennai, July 29
In a move to restore ecological balance and expand green cover, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has invited tenders to plant 1,500 native tree saplings on a reclaimed portion of the Kodungaiyur dump yard.
The project, to be executed under two work packages, has been allocated Rs 56 lakh and marks a significant step in repurposing former landfill land into green spaces. The plantation will take place over three acres of land that have been reclaimed through ongoing biomining efforts at the Kodungaiyur yard.
Officials said the aim is to gradually transform the sprawling landfill into a mini urban forest by planting native trees selected by the Parks Department.
Unlike the dense Miyawaki method, which uses tightly packed saplings, this project will focus on natural growth patterns suitable for long-term sustainability.
“Around 1,500 saplings will be planted in the first phase across the reclaimed three-acre site. The work will include annual maintenance and will be taken up in two packages by the selected contractor,†a senior GCC official said.
“The idea is to grow a self-sustaining, natural forest with native trees that will improve biodiversity and air quality in the area,†he said.
The GCC officials said the tender process has already been floated, and work will begin once the targeted land is fully reclaimed. Engineers from the civic body will oversee the plantation and ensure timely maintenance.
The success of this model will determine its replication on other reclaimed portions of the dump yard as biomining progresses.
Of the estimated 67 lakh tonnes of legacy waste at the Kodungaiyur site, the civic body has so far processed about 15 lakh tonnes. As more waste is cleared in the coming months, additional land will become available for green cover initiatives.
“The ultimate goal is to increase vegetation on all reclaimed landfill zones. This is not a one-time effort -- as more space is recovered, tree planting will continue,†the official added.
The project reflects GCC’s broader commitment to sustainable urban development and environmental restoration, especially in areas long impacted by waste dumping.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Rs 56 lakh seems like a lot of money for just 1500 trees. Why can't local residents and NGOs be involved to reduce costs? We've seen similar projects fail due to lack of maintenance after initial hype.
Great initiative! But they should also focus on preventing new waste dumping. What's the point of creating forests if we keep generating more garbage? Need better waste management policies alongside this.
As someone living near Kodungaiyur, this gives me hope! The stench and pollution have affected our health for years. Hope they choose trees that can thrive in this environment. Neem and peepal would be perfect choices.
Good they're avoiding Miyawaki method. Natural growth is better for long-term sustainability. But 3 acres is too small - hope they scale up quickly as more land becomes available.
They should involve school children in planting activities! Would create environmental awareness from young age. Plus, kids who plant trees grow up to protect them â¤ï¸
Impressive project! In my country, we've seen such landfill conversions become thriving ecosystems. Key is community involvement and long-term monitoring. Hope Chennai sets an example for other Indian cities.
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