Since 21 years students of IIT Bombay have been following a tradition of planting saplings in the campus to preserve various species and also a green initiative by the students staying at the campus. This year was no different as the students gathered together at the IIT campus in Powai, Navi Mumbai.

However, the tradition this year was slightly altered for a change and a good cause too. The students planted 1 -2 year old trees. Faculty, Students and other residents together planted saplings at the Sarovar Udyan near the lake side.

The plantation usally included various species of saplings native to the Konkan region. Over 1000 saplings of Bahava, Palas, Behada, Khair, Sitaphal, Nirgudi, Undi, Gin, Kingan, Sag, Karanj, Bamboo, Shivan, Taphan, Ratnagunj, Muchkund, Nimb and Parijatak were planted. Planting the trees ensured that they can grow efficiently as they are more robust and the trees belonging the Konkan region would also help the native ecology.

This Vanamahotsav was even more eventful this year in the wake of the expansion and restructuring that has been occurring in the capmpus. Since 1991 there have been more the 25,000 saplings planted with more than 15,000 surviving the test of time. Not just planting them, the horticultural department ensures that all the plants and saplings are taken care of round the year.

AW- Anil