People take part in the green drive in Dhurwa on June 23

Sow a sapling, savour your fruits of labour.

Ranchi will soon allow citizens to plant fruit-bearing trees and collect their bounty for life.

The novel initiative, to be launched in a fortnight in Tupudana, derives inspiration from last Sunday’s drive in Dhurwa where residents were given free saplings to be planted in the name of loved ones.

The green namesake campaign proved to be popular. The Ranchi division of state forest department is hoping the fruity option will be yet another hit.

Divisional forest officer (DFO), Ranchi, Rajiv Lochan Bakshi said 16 acres of forestland along Ring Road in Tupudana would be turned into a memorial park.

Growing a green bond will, however, come at a price this time. “We have decided to charge Rs 1,000 for each fruit-bearing tree planted and named in the memory of a loved one. The money will be used for maintenance of the park,” Bakshi said.

But he made it clear the move was not intended as a money-spinner. “The whole idea is to touch the right chord, to bring people closer to nature. When the sapling matures into a tree, it will be like a family member and the fruits will belong to the person who planted it. It will be a gesture of gratitude from our side.”

Most of the groundwork had been done.

“We spoke to chamber of commerce members and also the timber association. They are very enthusiastic about the Tupudana project. We are in the process of finalising the date of flag-off. Initially, invitations will be sent to these two bodies. Gradually, the ambit will be widened to include others,” he said.

If the forest division’s scheme succeeds, it will address concerns over diminishing green cover in a big way. “Maintaining the ecological balance is a tough challenge in the face of rapid urbanisation. We do take up afforestation activities every year, but that doesn’t necessarily involve citizens. This is a people’s movement,” Bakshi said.

The upcoming project looks to be a worthy successor of the noble cause sowed on June 23. The personal touch ensured the drive, which was held along the 2.5km Jagannathpur-SAI Mandir stretch in Dhurwa, drew many nature lovers. Around 1,000 saplings were planted that day.

“Personally speaking, I would develop an emotional connect if I planted a tree and named it after someone I love and care for,” said Bakshi. “I am hoping the residents of Ranchi are no different.”

Will you be interested to plant a sapling and name it?
Tell ttkhand@abpmail.com