Note From President Shernaz Vakil
HEART OF THE CITY
We thought nothing would make up for the chaos outside; the crazy traffic, the maze of humanity, the sudden diversions, and the fact that half our members (eager to be part of our In-Camera Fellowship) would have to turn back.
We were so wrong. We spent a lovely evening in the greens of the Willingdon Club.
It was cool and breezy, the venue was set up, and our lovely hosts Dilnar Chichgar together with the Club Secretary Commadore Bhagat and Club Botanist Mr. Mangesh were waiting to show us the project.
The project was conceived by the Environmental Committee and was diligently nurtured by the Club botanist & garden staff.
We were ready to visit a Miyawaki forest in the middle of our city, another tribute to the Japanese botanist who transformed cityscapes around the world.
Soon we were “buggied” across the golf greens to our destination five minutes away.
As we worked our way into the depths of the hundreds of trees planted in the 650 feet of the first forest, it was amazing to see what could be achieved in a mere 14 months.
Dilnar then shared her vision and how she and the Environmental Committee managed to execute the project despite the pandemic delays.
MIYAWAKI FOREST AT THE WILLINGDON
She started by explaining how so many trees we see in Mumbai are not really indigent to the area. The Gulmohar, the Laburnum, the Peltoforum, and the Jacaranda, various other trees whose colours and foliage we have enjoyed over the years, actually harm the environment.
Butterflies will not lay their eggs on these trees. So, no caterpillars will crawl there. So, no sparrows will
be found there. Where have all the sparrows gone?
The Miyawaki forest concept is to grow only trees indigent to the area. These are trees that will attract birds and bees.
True enough, as we sat in those verdant surroundings, birds welcomed us with their melodious calls, calming the spirit and cheering the soul.
Dilnar explained that the method involves planting two to four trees per square metre. Miyawaki forests grow in two to three years and are self-sustaining. They help lower temperatures in concrete heat islands, reduce air and noise pollution, attract local birds and insects, and create carbon sinks.
The idea is to crowd the trees together so they all fight for the sun and grow at 10 times the speed.
Having enjoyed this wonderful feat of nature we walked back to the clubhouse for the renowned Willingdon sandwiches, high tea and fellowship!
Once again, a happy outcome to a stressful beginning!
Thank you, Dilly and the Environmental Committee, at the Willingdon, for that little piece of heaven, in a city that cries out for oxygen. More Miyawakis, please!
— President Shernaz Vakil
