Staff Report
RAWALPINDI: The first Miyawaki forest grown over a vast expanse of land in Rialto Square has proved a resounding success.
A total of 8,500 plants have been planted across the forest. Around 6,000 of these are local fruit plants found in the Pothohar region. Fruits have also sprouted on the trees of ‘Lasora’ (Cordia myxa), guava, fig, mulberry and Grunde. They can be ready for consumption during Ramazan and in the coming summer.
With over 6,000 fruit trees, the dense forest has also become a bird sanctuary. Birds have migrated back to the forest. Quails, Myanas, doves and parrots have flocked to the area in large numbers.
Separately, families have also started visiting the forest for a stroll. This is in part, due to the beautiful benches along the forest to attract large crowds. Young people are especially seen enjoying the sunrise and sunset sitting on these benches. Colourful lights have also been installed.
Following the success of this forest, four new Miyawaki forest projects have been approved for Rawalpindi. These forests have been launched during the ongoing spring tree-plantation campaign. One forest will be grown at the Pakistan Railways and the other has been finalised for the Cantonment Board area. There will be a formal permit from both institutions before matters proceed further.
The dense forests will help breed all kinds of birds during the ongoing breeding season. Small cages have been installed to protect the nests on trees. These cages are painted a beautiful wooden colour for the convenience of birds.
They will also help eliminate the scourge of environmental pollution in Rawalpindi.
The projects are expected to be completed within the next three months.
Earlier this year, special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Climate Change Amin Aslam will inaugurate the forest. Work on the first Miyawaki Forest of Rawalpindi was started in April 2021 and completed in June. According to the RDA chief, Miyawaki is the best jungle technique. “We planted this forest in the first week of April, 2021. In three-and-a-half months, its plants have grown to a height of between 8 to 10 feet. The recent monsoon rains have ensured their growth is even faster.
