Nagarvan Urban Forest in Surat faces Management issues

Surat : Concerns have been raised among aware citizens in Surat regarding the recently inaugurated Nagarvan at Dumas – Surat, an urban forest initiative developed to promote environmental sustainability and provide a serene natural retreat to the residents of the city. While the vision and objective of the project are highly commendable, several issues in its management require urgent intervention to ensure its success and sustainability.

During a recent visit by RTI activist Rajesh Modi on January 19, several concerns came to light, highlighting significant areas of improvement needed to maintain the forest-like environment envisioned for this project.

One of the primary issues observed was the inadequate watering of the 20,000 trees planted using the Miyawaki method. Many plants showed visible signs of stress due to insufficient water supply, exacerbated by the reliance on tanker water deliveries. Proper freshwater provision and regular maintenance are critical to preserving the health and longevity of the urban forest.

The bird park, a key attraction within Nagarvan, was closed to visitors during the visit, with staff citing ongoing training for the birds to interact safely with visitors. However, concerns were raised about the conditions in which the birds were kept, as some enclosures appeared inadequate for their welfare. The lack of informative signage regarding the park’s closure added to visitor confusion and dissatisfaction.

Similarly, the aquarium, another main feature of Nagarvan, was poorly maintained. Maintenance activities such as water changes were scheduled during peak visitor hours without prior notice, leading to unexpected closures and visitor disappointment.

Additional facilities like the “Van Shree Restaurant” and the Rural Mall, aimed at showcasing tribal crafts and cuisine, were closed during the visit. This closure not only undermined the project’s objective of empowering tribal communities but also deprived visitors of a unique cultural experience.

Moreover, the infrastructure within Nagarvan, including walkways, exhibited poor construction with uneven surfaces, posing safety risks, particularly to children and senior citizens. Reports of security and maintenance staff lacking proper uniforms and appearing unprofessional further detracted from the park’s credibility.

Crucially, during the visit, no responsible representative from the contractor or the Forest Department was available to address concerns. The absence of essential information such as details about the managing contractor and the unavailability of a complaint book further hampered visitor feedback and resolution of issues.

Nagarvan, developed at a cost of Rs 1.5 crore, holds significant potential to serve as a model for environmental conservation and recreational development in Surat. However, urgent attention is required to rectify current management shortcomings and uphold the project’s objectives and public reputation.

Stakeholders have called for a comprehensive review of project management, emphasizing the need for improved plant and animal care, enhanced visitor experiences through better facilities and information dissemination, regular audits, and the deployment of adequately trained personnel for effective daily operations.