Considering the therapeutic effects of rich natural surroundings on the psychological and mental health of human beings, environmentalists are working towards a community greening initiative at Taloja central jail. The group, Myvets Charitable Trust and Research Centre, has planted more than 300 local trees for environment conservation and avian biodiversity.
Speaking about the project, Dr Madhurita Gupta from Myvets explained how landscape projects could help enhance the environment as well as quality of human life. “It is observed that whenever landscape projects are promoted to create a habitat for wellbeing of birds, animals and people sharing the same environment, it results in a therapeutic effect on psychological and mental health of all creatures,” she said.
The habitat restoration initiative includes planting of over 300 trees and flowery shrubs on jail premises, including 100 Himelia Patens, 50 Ixora Dwarf, 50 Plumbego Blue and 50 Lantena plants. Additionally, 50 lemon citrus trees have also been planted in the vicinity. The green cover is said to be an ideal attraction for a wide variety of birds.
Speaking about objectives of the endeavour, Dr Gupta said that the core intention was restoring natural habitat to help conserve indigenous avian species. “Plantation-based activities inside Taloja central jail are intended to promote psychological and mental wellbeing of inmates. The presence of trees and flowery shrubs will undoubtedly reduce the stress of prisoners and jail working staff who work under immense pressure inside boundaries of four high walls,” she added.
Myvets volunteers who participated in the initiative confirmed that by providing water and feed to birds in the summer heat, not only would a beautiful habitat be created for avian species on the premises but also horticultural therapy would be provided for prisoners who would participate in maintenance of the trees in future.
“Eventually, we only wish that at all times, there is interaction between people and nature which engages them in activities helpful towards environmental conservation. These small steps to create habitats will help in long-term natural and wildlife conservation,” said Dr Yuvraj Kaginkar from Myvets.
