BIOPARK AT SEMINARY HILLS, NAGPUR

THEME: PROJECT PROPOSALS FOR BIODIVERSITY PARK, AT SEMINARY HILLS, NAGPUR


J. SIngh Germania

1.0 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1.1 The existence of life on earth is a consequence of millions of years of evolutionary process leading to formation of life support systems on this living planet. Natural ecosystems, with its rich floral biodiversity and landscape value constitute life support systems that ensure environmental balance and ecological security on this blue planet. They are the storehouses of gene pools viz. the genome banks of biodiversity- an invaluable nature’s gift to humanity.

1.2 Plants and animals have been the part of the way of life of people of diverse nations, communities and cultures, world over, and have been considered auspicious and sacred by various cultural communities. Articles 48-A and 51- A (g) of the Constitution of India bestows duty on each state and citizen to protect and conserve their natural environs, forests, rivers, water bodies and to have compassion for various life forms.

1.3 In this modern arena of stressful existence, need of green spaces, clean and pollution free environment has been acknowledged as the main concerns for hygienic and pollution free living. Greens such as the wilderness areas, Nature Parks, Bio Parks and Gardens play a critical role in developing green minds and hearts for generating conservation awareness and sensitivity about environmental issues and concerns. These Greens function as the conservation centers and the communication gateways for achieving objectives of ‘Mission Green India’ launched by the GOI in 2001 to achieve the prime aim of National Forest Policy viz. 1/3 of geographic area of the country under Green Cover [forest/tree cover] .


2.0 SALIENT FEATURES OF RAJ BHAVAN, NAGPUR AND ADJOINING TRACT

2.1 The proposed site in adjoins of Raj Bhavan, Nagpur is a unique site situated in the midst of Nagpur City- known for its strategic central location and geo-naturo-cultural diversity and richness. Raj Bhavan complex forms a part of the Seminary Hills forest tract, which has been acknowledged as one of the Green Lunges of this Orange City. It plays a significant role in ensuring the ecological security as well as maintenance of livable and healthy environment conditions in the city, known for its natural ambience and pollution free clean and green naturo-cultural milieu.

2.2 Nagpur city, as such, is known for its checkered history and diverse cultural milieu and background. It was established in the eighteenth century by a Gond king, named as Bakhat Buland. Later, the Bhosle rulers made it, as its capital, and ruled these areas, till 1817. British forces took over the administration of Nagpur region, in 1853 and made Nagpur city as the capital of the Central Provinces and Berar. After independence, it was capital of Central Province [Madhya Pradesh], till reorganization of states in 1956. After reorganization, Berar region was attached to Bombay state; and Nagpur lost its stature as the capital city. Subsequently, Maharashtra state was formed on 1st May 1960 with Nagpur as its second capital.

2.3 The history of the Raj Bhavan, Nagpur is equally checkered as that of the Nagpur city. It has acquired a distinct chronology; in it’s over 140 years of existence, since 1866, when it was first built up as a landmark site in Central India. It was named as the House of the Chief Commissioner, Central Province in 1891 and CP & Berar in 1903. In 1920, it was declared as Government House of Governor of the Central Provinces, and subsequently, for MP in 1947. In 1956, it assumed role of Government House of Governor of Bombay/ Maharashtra [in 1960]. In 1988, it was assigned status of Raj Bhavan in the second capital of Maharashtra.

2.4 Nagpur city- the city of Zero Mile- nestles midst Gondwanaland landscape - known for its ancient geological formation, natural scenic beauty, rich biodiversity, cultural values and ecological significance. Nagpur region is the confluence of biodiversity of different phyto-geographical regions viz. the north and south Indian flora and rich and diverse tribal (Gonds) culture. It is also unique in palaco-diversity of three geological eras, namely, Paleozoic, Mesozoic and Cenozoic. Nagpur region is also known for places of historical, cultural and religious significance. The famous Ramtek temple, Kalidas Smarak, Mansar, Ghugusgarh, Pench Dam, Pench National Park, Dhiksha Bhumi, Dragon Palace, Ambhora, Khekdanala, and Sewagram are significant for scenic value, nature interpretation and cultural point of view.

2.5 The climate of Nagpur is hot and dry with distinct three seasons, namely, summer, rainy and winter seasons. Summer begins in mid-February and continues till onset of the monsoon, in the middle of June. April and May are very hot months and the day temperature soars up to 46º C. Rains bring respite from the blistering heat, in the middle of June and continue till the end of September. Remaining part of the year is very pleasant both for leisure and action.

2.6 Socio-Economic Survey Report (2000-2001) provides insight into the current socio-cultural scenario of the Nagpur region. The population of the Nagpur district (Census-2001) is 40.50 Lakhs, of which, about 64.36 percent is urban and 35.64 percent live in the rural areas. Gonds, Korkus, Kolams, Marias, etc. are the main tribal communities of this region having distinct way of life and belief, so akin to natural way of life. Their unique way of life and culture milieu provide soothing cues to the distressed humanity in search of peace, tranquility and harmony.

2.7 Landscape of Nagpur region is undulating and well drained and falls in the catchments of the Wardha and the Wainganga rivers. These river systems and their catchments constitute the lifeline of Nagpur and its adjoining area. Gondwana landscape represents floral and faunal wealth of the Central Highlands, a unique bio-geographical unit of great ecological significance in Central India. Recently, it has earned the reputation of a ‘clean and green city’ in the region. It is acknowledged as the Global Tiger Capital and, hence, an important destination for visitors from India and abroad.

2.8 Nagpur is well connected to various PAs and Eco-sites of unique conservation values to provide diverse and viable options of nature interpretation exposure. They constitutes the prime habitats of Indian Tiger and Panther- the key species of this region, along with their herbivores denizens such as Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, Nilgai, Gaur, Wild boar, Sloth bear, Chowsingha, etc. The following, PAs in close vicinity of Nagpur provide options of nature experiential learning.

· National Parks & Tiger Reserves: Pench, Nawegaon, Tadoba and Melghats.
· Sanctuaries: Bor, Nagzira, Tipeshwar, Andhari, etc.
· PAs in adjoining areas: Karmazari Tiger Reserve, Kanha National Park, Satpuda NP, Panchmarhi, etc

3.0 SITE DETAILS OF PROPOSED BIODIVERSITY PARK

3.1 The Raj Bhavan, Nagpur complex, comprising of main Raj Bhavan Building, Lawns & Gardens, staff quarters, areas assigned to charitable and voluntary institutions, municipal facilities and its adjoining forested tracts. The tract is hilly and undulating, at places, with varying slope and landscape values. The Raj Bhavan Main Building is situated on the top of the Seminary hill mount as a majestic towering monument and is approachable by a good network of internal roads linked to the entry gates. The entry is regulated through two gates situated one on the Sadar Bazar side [Eastern] and another on the Seminary Hills side [Western] of the complex. The entire complex is encircled by the boundary wall, delineating it, distinctively, from the rest of the city. It appears that the nature has itself studded a pink jewel on the green face of the orange-green city to spread green conscience and awareness around.

3.2 The proposed site in adjoins of Raj Bhavan extends over to an area of 49 hectares, having 19 hectares of area under the existing buildings, facilities and other non-forestry land uses. The remaining 30 hectares of the complex is under vegetative cover of different hues and density. A large portion of it is infested with Subabul [Leucaena leucocephala] and other invasive tree species of little aesthetic and conservation value. Spread of invasive species such as the subabul, tends to disturb the natural species composition and ecological balance of the site. The areas affected by invasive species, therefore, need specific treatment to restore its original species status and composition with focus on removal of unwanted species and filling the gaps, so caused, by native indicator species of the Nagpur region having sound aesthetic and environment value. The remaining area is comparatively open and support sparse vegetative cover, and hence need landscape plantation treatment by suitable species of aesthetic, environment amelioration, biodiversity conservation, medicinal and cultural values.

3.3 The Entry Gate points, approaching roads, surrounds of sanctum sanctorum, staff quarters, lawns, gardens, parking site, tract along the boundary and a few sites of special significance have special educational, recreational and conservational value and appeal. Hence, require treatment based on landscape plantation with focus of aesthetic and conservation of floral diversity.

3.4 Raj Bhavan, Nagpur complex site forms part of the Seminary Hills range, which is known for its scenic view and biodiversity conservation value. Due to its strategic location in the midst of Nagpur city, it aptly suits for developing into a floral Biopark [VANASPATI UDHYAN] for ‘conservation and showcasing the unique floral biodiversity and landscape values’ of the Gondwana landscape for generating green awareness in the Nagpur region.

3.5 The site map of the proposed site in adjoins of Raj Bhavan, Nagpur, showing the details of areas under various facilities and existing land uses is enclosed, herewith, as Diagram-I.

4.0 ESSENCE AND CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK OF PROPOSALS

4.1 India has long tradition of maintaining green spaces, such as, sacred groves, nature parks, bioparks and gardens for disseminating conservation awareness and technical know-how for purpose of education, research and recreation. These greens function as the instruments of nature interpretation and showcasing natural landscape values; and also act as epicenters of green conscience- conservation awareness and sensitivity. Objective is to help citizen develop 'green mind and green personae' through conservation awareness and nature immersion exposures so that they grow as 'green citizen' who would take care and safeguard their natural environs and greens spaces.

4.2 Percepts, like, Vasudevam katunbkam, Live and let live’ and Trimurti (cosmic life-cycle) as well as venues and modes of seeking salvation (Moksha/Nirvana) such as Nishargdham, Vanprashth and Sanyas Ashramas, etc. were conceived in the ancient Indian cultural milieu. Over the ages, these concepts have gone deep into our psyche, as the guiding principles of way of life.

4.3 Nature nurtures its being and like a mother is the messiah to seek solutions of problems faced by humanity. Thus, Nisargam Sharnam Gachhami viz Back to Nature's Abode- appears to be the guiding principle to solve our riddles and seek salvation from bondages of life.

4.4 The conceptual framework of project proposals embodies holistic exhibition of floral biodiversity, landscape and associated ethnic values, so as to have a wholesome and deeper appeal on psyche of citizens and visitors. The Raj Bhavan site exhibits representative features of geographical formation and floral diversity of Gondwana landscape and hence would add aura of unique distinction to the proposed facility.

4.5 The Raj Bhavan, Nagpur complex have been proposed for developing on the lines of a ‘theme park’ with the view to convey the residents and the visiting public a clear message through a story-line running through different themes, zonation features, view points and exhibits. The theme and message intended is given, as under.

· Theme: ‘Conservation and showcasing the unique floral biodiversity, landscape and ethnic values of Gondwana landscape’ for promoting green conscience, conservation awareness and nature experiential learning in the Nagpur region.
· Message: Service to the nature is service to the mankind: Love and respect nature. Immerse in nature to seek its blessings and bliss, alike, a child who finds solace in his mother’s lap.

4.6 The conceptual framework is in consonance to holist view of nature and its wild creations put forth by various visionaries, in the past, and is summed up, as follows;

‘Nature is whole and interconnected…… We need another and a wiser and perhaps a more mystical concept of animals. Wild spaces and their animal communities are like ‘other nations’…… They are not brethren, they are not underlings, and they are other nations, caught with ourselves, in the net of life and time, fellow prisoners of splendor and travail of earth (Henry Beston, 1928).

Landscape Immersion Theory (Jones & Jones, 1976) is based on, the following, foundation;

· Nature is the model: copy nature, not other artificial creations.
· If we would teach respect for nature, we must present nature respectfully.
· Demonstrate landscape, as appropriate habitat and ecosystem.
· Immerse visitors in simulated or restored natural landscape dominated by natural forms, without distracting views of crowds, barriers and support structure.
5.0 GENESIS AND OUTLINES OF PROJECT PROPOSALS

5.1 Proposed site in adjoins of Raj Bhavan Complex, being a part of Seminary Hill forest tract – the Green Lung of Nagpur City- is a significance site for locational and ecological point of view. A large chunk of the Raj Bhavan complex is under forest cover, supporting both the native and exotic species, especially, on the hill slopes along its eastern and south-western side. A significant portion of the forest cover has been invaded by the subabul and other invasive species that has caused imbalance in species composition of the site. A part of complex, on north-eastern side, primarily, is open and supports grasses and bushes of little ecological and conservation value. Spread of subabul and other invasive species in the Raj Bhavan complex forested areas is an indicator of ecological imbalance and degradation of site factors setting in the healthy functioning of Seminary Hills, forest ecosystem.

5.2 The concern was expressed by Raj Bhavan, Nagpur administration for checking the spread of the invasive species through landscaping and plantation mode to restore its site quality, beauty, species composition and ecological status. A meeting to this effect was held under the Chairmanship of the Secretary to Governor of Maharashtra in the Conference Hall at Raj Bhavan, Nagpur on dated 18th July, 2008, in which, subject of landscaping and plantation of Raj Bhavan Complex, Nagpur was discussed. It was proposed to check the spread of subabul and other invasive species in the Raj Bhavan Complex by removal and filling up of the gaps by suitable native species of conservation, aesthetic, environment amelioration and ethno-medicinal value. The Social Forestry, Department, at Nagpur, was assigned the task of reconnaissance survey and preparation of proposals indicating requirement of funds for this purpose.

5.3 In view to the decision taken in the meeting, survey was carried out on dated 15.10.2008 by the officials of the Social Forestry Department, at Nagpur. Thereafter, discussions were held with Officer Incharge, Raj Bhavan, Nagpur; and proposal for and landscape plantation and beautification of Raj Bhavan Complex, Nagpur have been prepared and submitted to the Secretary to the Governor of Maharashtra vide letter No.Desk-3/Steno/08-09/7004 dated 20.1.2009.

6.0 SALIENT ASPECTS AND COMPONENTS OF THE PROJECT PROPOSALS.

The salient components of project proposals have been given, as under.

6.1 ZONATION OF THE PROPOSED SITE

The Raj Bhavan Complex, SEMINARY HILLS, Nagpur extended over to 49.00 ha area on north-eastern front of Seminary Hill tract. For purpose of simplicity and effective differential treatment to areas under different land uses, it is proposed to classify the area under, the following, zonation or category.

· Zone I: Area under Raj Bhavan Building & associated structures, Lawns, Gardens, Municipal facilities and areas assigned to educational and charity institutions, extending to 19 Ha area.
· Zone II: Open tract along north-eastern flank, invaded by grasses and shrubs, having sparse vegetation cover; extending over to 10 Ha of area .
· Zone III: Areas with vegetation cover; invaded by Subabul and other invasive species; extending to 20 Ha areas.
· Zone IV: 20 Meter wide strip along the Boundary wall. Zone

· Zone V: 10 Meter wide strip along both sides of internal approach roads

6.2) PROPOSED MANAGEMENT TREATMENT AND OPTIONS

The management options to achieve holistically the aims of project proposals include differential management strategy for each zone. Each Zone is proposed to provide management treatment and option matching with the site conditions, nature of vegetation and overall aim and objectives of the project proposals.

6.21) Zone I: These areas are under assigned land uses and hence no treatment is proposed. Landscaping and beautification of surrounds of Raj Bhavan Building and associated structures would be carried out as per
the landscape plan of the Raj Bhavan complex.

6.22) Zone II: These areas are proposed for cleaning operations of unwanted invasive species. The areas, thereafter, are proposed for delineation under distinct category of plantations models under the following themes.
i) Bambucetum: 2.00 Ha of areas is proposed for creating Bambucetum of about 20- 40 selected species of bamboo in India. 20 Plants of each selected species is proposed for planting in a sub-plot of size [25Mx20M= 500 Sq. M]; at spacing 5M X 5M.
ii) Ethno-botanical collection/Medicinal Plants: 3.00 Ha of area is proposed for creating medicinal plants unit [Ethno-botanical collection]. Trees, shrubs, herbs, climbers would have separated sections.

· Tree Collections: 1 Ha area is proposed for delineation. 25 species are proposed for collection of tree species. 25 plants of each species is proposed for plantation at spacing 4M x 4M in sub-unit of [20M x 20M = 400 sq. M]
· Shrub Species: 1 Ha area is proposed for delineation for shrub collection. 25 species of shrubs are proposed for collection. Spacing and sub-unit size is proposed, as same, as that of tree species.
· Herb and climber collection: 1 Ha area is proposed for this collection. 25 species of herbs and 25 species of climbers are proposed for collection and planting at suitable spacing in sub-units of size [20M x 20M = 400 sq. M].

iii) Sacred Species Collection: 2 Ha of the area is proposed for delineation for this purpose. 50 sacred species, having reference in religious scriptures/practices are proposed for collection. 25 plants of each species is proposed for plantation in sub-units of size [20M x 20M = 400 sq. M].

iv) Ornamental & Environment friendly species collection: 2 Ha area is proposed for delineation for this collection. 25 species of each category [Ornamental & Environment friendly species] is proposed for collection. 25 plants of each species is proposed for plantation at 4M x 4M spacing in distinct sub-units of size [20M x 20M = 400 sq. M].

v) Cactus species Collection: 1 Ha area is proposed for delineation for this purpose. 50 species of cactus are proposed for collection and plantation to develop it into a Cactus Garden.

6.23) Zone III: For these areas the following management options are proposed.

i) Removal of subabul and other invasive species in the areas.
ii) Cleaning of area for alignment and delineation into hectare units.
iii) Delineating each Ha Unit into sub-Units of size [50M X 50 M = 2500 sq. M]
iv) Plantation of each ¼ Ha Unit with one distinct environment friendly and one distinct ornamental species in combination [Environment friendly species: Ornamental species : : 64 Plants : 36 Plants}; at 5M x 5M spacing, in a specially designed pattern, where ornamental species is planted in 5th and 6th Rows and Columns in each ¼ Ha units.
v) Each sub-unit is proposed to have distinct combination of the environment friendly and ornamental species for plantation.
vi) One combination is not proposed to be repeated in same Ha Unit and in the adjoining Ha Unit.
vii) Size of pit for plantation is proposed of size 45 cm cube; and 60 cm cube on difficult sites.

6.24) Zone IV: It comprises 20 M wide strip along the boundary wall. The strip is proposed to be planted with environment friendly and ornamental species in combination in distinct rows at 5 M spacing. The proposed plantation pattern would be, as follows.
i) Each 100 M stretch of boundary would a one distinct combination of 2 Environment friendly and 2 Ornamental species.
ii) Planting pattern would have, the ornamental species in 2 rows, running together supported by one row of environment friendly species on each side.
iii) Bamboo would be planted at 10 M spacing along the boundary.
iv) No combination would repeat in 1 Km stretch on both side.

6.25) Zone V : The 10 M wide stretch along the roads would be planted with ornamental and aromatic species of trees and plants in 2 Rows at 5 M spacing in, the following, pattern.
i) Tree species [flowering] would be planted in outer rows; other plants in inner row along roads.
ii) Each road would have distinct combination of trees and plants [Avenue] associating to a definite feature/theme and/or cause of Nagpur region.
iii) Species of aromatic and aesthetic value including exotics are proposed in the inner rows, whereas, native flowering species are proposed for plantation in the outer row, at defined spacing.
iv) Interpretation material is proposed to be displayed at each prominent point in shape of information boards or exhibits for disseminating green awareness.
v) Signs and directions would be displayed in appropriate colors and sizes.
vi) Do’s and Don’ts would be displayed at appropriate places for benefit of visitors.

7.0 LANDSCAPING OF THE PROPSED SITE

i) The entire site, adjoining Rajbhawan, Nagpur Complex, Seminary Hills, Nagpur is proposed for landscaping and beautification to enhance its aesthetic and interpretational value and appeal by providing interpretational exhibits, watch towers and nature trail at suitable sites. The following action points are proposed, to this affect.
ii) Services of expert in the field would be hired to prepare landscape plan and associated maps in conformity with the theme and objectives of project proposals and also to seek his expert help and advice for implementation of the same.
iii) Identify sites for landscaping and integrate it with the project theme.
iv) Identify points and themes, including watchtowers for enhancing view and birds nests for enhancing bird watching experience, for purpose of delineation of nature trail and display of interpretational information and exhibits and also set up view points and resting places along the nature trail.

8.0 NATURE INTERPRETATION & INFORMATION CENTER AT PROPOSED SITE

It is proposed to set up Nature Interpretation Center at proposed site at Seminary Hills, Nagpur with audio-visual display and interpretational facility. The center would undertake the following works during the project period.
i) Prepare check list of flora and fauna in the Raj Bhavan complex and document it for reference and use by the institutions and citizens.
ii) Prepare database of Raj Bhavan Complex, its facilities and assets, including natural wealth and its ecological significance and update it regularly.
iii) Help implement and monitor project proposals and species collection in shape of the Gondwana floral Biopark [Gondwana Vanaspati Udhyan].

9.0 FINANCIAL REQUIREMENT OF PROJECT PROPOSALS

i) The Project proposal comprising of the above salient component requires amount Rs.139.15 Lakhs for wholesome implementation. The detailed year-wise flow chart and break-up of financial requirement for proposed works is included herewith, as Annexure- 1.
ii) It is proposed to be implemented for the period of 3 years commencing from 2009-10 to 2011-12.
iii) To initiate project on priority, initial funds of Rs. 62.15 Lakhs is required for financial year 2009-10.

10.0 INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENT FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF PROJECT PROPOSALS

On dated 18.1.2009, meeting was held, at the Conference Hall, Raj Bhavan, Nagpur under the Chairmanship of the Secretary to the Governor of Maharashtra to deliberate on issues of the institutional arrangement and financial provisions for implement the project proposals. The following, aspects were put forth for early facilitation and approval of the project.
(i) Revised year-wise flow chart of funds required for undertaking the project of landscaping and tree plantation in the Raj Bhavan Complex would be prepared and put forth to the Mineral Ore India Ltd., Nagpur for provision of requisite funds, to this effect.
(ii) Removal of subabul trees would be carried out by calling tenders and the amount so recovered as royalty would be used for cleaning operations and other preliminary works related to the project.
iii) Services of experts would be hired for preparing the landscape Maps and Action Plan for the entire Raj Bhavan Complex, Nagpur.
iv) The Social Forestry Department, at Nagpur would be the Nodal Agency for implementation of the project proposals; and other departments like Forest Department, MOIL, NMC, etc. would assist in implementation of the project, as and when, so required.
v) A team of officials associated with the project proposals would visit Raj Bhavan, Bhopal, Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi and Chandigarh city for the purpose of studying the landscaping and beautification aspect of tree plantation and bring home experience of those sites, for purpose of this project.
vi) An Advisory Committee would be constituted involving officials from Social Forestry, Forest Department, Mineral Ore India Ltd., Nagpur and other associated institutions at Nagpur to assist in implementation of the project proposals.

11.00 In view of the decisions taken in the above meeting, revised proposals for plantation and landscaping of Biopark site, adjoining Raj Bhavan, Seminary Hills, Nagpur have been prepared and enclosed herewith for necessary approval. The detailed estimate and year-wise break-up [Flow chart] is enclosed, as Annexure- I.
i) The salient components of project proposals and estimated financial requirement are given, as under.