Miyawaki forest

Dr Alby John Varghese, Regional Deputy Commissioner (South) of Greater Chennai Corporation set up the first Miyawaki forest in Kotturpuram last year, which inspired the corporation to set up 30 more across Chennai.

Using this, it’s possible to grow a variety of native species in as little a space as 20 square feet. Imagine having your own mini forest!

“It will protect you from air pollution, block out noises and make the surroundings cooler,” says Dr. Miyawaki’s student, Nishino Fumitaka, explaining how such a forest saved lives during a tsunami and landslide in Japan.

The Better India had covered the story of Malhotras in 2015 and four years later, we are fortunate to cover the story of someone who was inspired by them!

Once an arid rock-strewn patch, the land now teems with lush green creepers, shrubs and trees - all thanks to a 53-year-old man who believed that forests could grow in cities too!

For 20 years, Bimal Desai has been crusading for the protection of Cubbon Park. Instrumental in getting night traffic banned in Bengaluru's green lung, he has also grown eight Miyawaki forests in his backyard!