Green target: 25,000 saplings by Aug 15

“We aim at creating large green patches to act as lungs of the city,” said Abhishek Kishtwar of TPF.

The trees will be systematically planted and maintained by TPF in collaboration with the army,the release said.

Trees planted are 4-6 feet tall and have strong immunity and survival rate. Various technical factors such as soil content,moiture level,groundwater level,manuring,pest control are studied a month prior to planting the saplings in an area.

The foundation said natural fertilizers and manures are used before plantation. Pit depth is taken into consideration as per soil. Contingency back up for water supply is maintained in case of delayed monsoon. The trees planted were chosen from the Western Ghats. The TPF received support from Tata Motors,the Indian Army and I Built India Ltd. The NGO urged various environmentally sensitive and responsible companies to support the cause.

“Individuals can contribute by planting trees on a birthday/anniversary or special occasion,joining hands in plantation,technical knowledge support,tree survival updates,granting fenced land for plantation efforts. They can inform about areas where trees can be planted and help us in getting permission,” the release said.

“The next phase of plantation has been planned in various institutions and schools in Pashan,Wakad,Yerawada and Talegaon,” it added.

The Foundation said its main objective was to plant more then 1,00,000 trees in 2012 and create sustainable green every year.