Amid soaring temperatures, Kondhwa residents take plantation into their own hands for shade

Pune: With temperatures crossing 42°C in the city, residents of Kondhwa are turning to long-term cooling solutions through community-led greening efforts.In collaboration with the Pune forest department and Anandvan Foundation, these citizens plan to plant native trees along the key stretches in their area, including Sunshree to Anandvan, Anandvan to Raheja, and along NIBM-Undri Road. The foundation will provide nurtured saplings of over five feet tall, along with tools and on-ground guidance. Residents and housing societies are being asked to nominate a volunteer, help identify planting spots near footpaths and open areas, and commit to regular watering.With native species such as neem, Arjun, kadamba and bakul being planted, the effort aims to gradually transform fragmented spaces into shaded, breathable corridors across the neighbourhood.Bhupesh Sharma, a botanist who has started the initiative, said the movement has seen a shift from institutional to individual action. "While a couple of societies have formally joined us, many more individuals are stepping forward and asking for trees along roadsides. They are seeing the direct impact of heat, from unbearable walking conditions to stray animals burning their paws on hot asphalt. People want shade, and they understand this requires sustained effort."Sharma underlined that identifying plantation spots remains a technical challenge. "In front of Raheja Vista, a plantation initiative has recently been completed. But finding the right space is an issue. It is not just about empty land. We have to ensure there are no underground pipelines, MNGL lines or sewage networks. We are working with civil engineers to map safe locations. Even if a space allows for just one tree instead of 10, we'll use it. Every tree counts," he said.He emphasised that maintenance is critical. "Watering is the most important part. In some patches, our volunteers are managing it, while in others society staffers are helping. Without consistent care, the effort does not sustain," said Sharma.Praveen Kumar, founder of the Anandvan Foundation, said the initiative goes beyond beautification. "Trees are the lungs of any locality. In areas dominated by concrete, air quality suffers and heat gets trapped, which directly impacts local residents. Even planting in small pockets can significantly improve air circulation, provide cleaner oxygen and create a healthier microclimate for residents," said Kumar.Residents say the change cannot come soon enough. "This area has already turned into a concrete jungle, but construction is not going to stop any time soon. Every new building facilitates trapping heat. There is barely any natural shade left. Tree cover is not a luxury anymore; it is essential for basic comfort and survival," said Arjun Doshi, a resident of NIBM Road.