Save Amrai mission launched to clean forest patch near Sonegaon

Nagpur: Residents of Pratap Nagar and Sonegaon launched a citizen-led ‘Save Amrai' mission to restore the forested patch near Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport after years of littering and neglect.Around 20 volunteers, including senior citizens and youths, carried out a cleanup drive on Sunday near the Hanuman Temple opposite the historic Bhonsle-era well. They collected nearly 10 sacks of waste, including liquor bottles, plastic wrappers, food packaging material and other garbage.TOI too had multiple times reported on the deteriorating condition and unabated littering taking place at the location. The area, known for its old mango grove and nearly 300-year-old well, had become a dumping ground and a spot for open liquor consumption and parties, residents said. Locals alleged repeated complaints to civic authorities had brought little action.The group now plans to hold cleanup drives every Sunday morning, plant multiple species of mango trees to revive the grove, and work with the Nagpur Municipal Corporation's solid waste management dept for garbage disposal. The group members said the initiative aims not only to maintain cleanliness but also to revive the lost greenery and heritage value of the area.The effort has also drawn civic attention, with NMC standing committee chairperson Shivani Dani recently inspecting the site. Restoration and cleaning of the historic well are expected to begin after Heritage Committee's approval.