Namakkal: The Namakkal municipal corporation has developed two Miyawaki mini forests with 14,000 saplings at Thummangurichi to expand urban green cover and support ecological conservation. The project is part of the corporation’s ‘Green Namakkal, Clean Namakkal, Prosperous Namakkal’ initiative.“The first mini forest has 6,200 saplings and the second 7,800. Both plantations use the Miyawaki technique, which promotes dense forest growth in compact urban spaces and creates ecosystems resembling natural forests,” said corporation commissioner S Selva Balaj.Saplings have been planted under a four-tier model. Shrubs constitute 35% of the plantations, helping preserve ground moisture and providing habitats for insects and other small organisms. Medicinal plants, including tulsi and aloe vera, have also been planted. Aloe vera can store water and survive in dry conditions, while tulsi is valued for its traditional healing properties.Sub-tree varieties account for another 35%, forming the middle layer and providing vegetation and shelter for birds and small animals. Trees in the main layer constitute 20% and are intended to absorb carbon dioxide, capture dust, improve air quality and reduce urban heat.Canopy species comprise the remaining 10%. These taller trees will develop broad crowns, provide shade, preserve soil moisture, regulate ground temperatures and create habitats for birds and other organisms.“The mini forests are expected to improve air quality, lower surrounding temperatures, increase rainwater absorption, support biodiversity and strengthen soil conservation. Organic matter from fallen leaves and other plant material is also expected to enrich the soil and improve water retention,” the commissioner said.With regular maintenance, the plantations are expected to develop into dense green ecosystems and contribute to Namakkal’s environmental health.
