Leaf Relief: Tree Ambulance Rescues Neglected Saplings in Chandigarh

Leaf Relief: Tree Ambulance Initiative in Chandigarh

Overview

Chandigarh has launched a unique “tree ambulance” initiative aimed at rescuing and nurturing neglected or ailing saplings and trees across the city. This effort addresses a common issue: while many saplings are planted during environmental drives, ongoing care is often lacking, leading to high mortality rates among young trees.

How the Tree Ambulance Works

• The tree ambulance is an eco-friendly vehicle equipped with farming tools, pesticides, water tanks, and manure, enabling on-site treatment of distressed trees.

• It was started by Prabhu Nath Shahi, a former Indian Air Force officer and retired member of the Chandigarh forest department, and is sponsored by the Jai Madhusudan Jai Shrikrishna Foundation.

• The service operates through several centers in the tricity area (Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula), with the main base at TriShakti Temple in Sector 49, Chandigarh. Requests for assistance are addressed within two days.

Key Activities and Impact

• Since its inception in 2021, the initiative claims a 100% survival rate for over 2,000 saplings and has established 11 gardens in the region.

• The ambulance not only treats disease-ridden or drying trees but also spreads awareness about proper tree care, addressing issues like over-watering, cementing around roots, and food waste that attracts pests.

• The foundation emphasizes bio-enzyme treatments and avoids chemical fertilizers, promoting sustainable practices.

• Community engagement is central, with lectures at schools and public events to educate citizens about environmental conservation.

Innovative Approaches

• The “5P-5S” formula is used to guide tree care and public awareness, though specific details of this formula were not provided in the search results.

• The organization celebrates “Tree Anniversaries” to encourage people to regularly check on and care for their planted trees.

• Ahead of Independence Day, a campaign titled “Ek Ped Bharat Mata Ke Naam” was launched to further promote tree planting and care.

Broader Context and Significance

• Tree ambulance services are part of a growing movement across India, with similar initiatives in cities like Chennai, Amritsar, and Jaipur, focusing on urban biodiversity, combating urban heat islands, and supporting India’s climate commitments.

• These services are typically staffed by experts and volunteers, providing free care to trees and helping to cool cities, improve air quality, and increase green cover.

Challenges Addressed

• Urbanization often leads to neglect of newly planted saplings, improper maintenance (such as cementing around roots), and lack of public awareness about tree care.

• The tree ambulance directly addresses these issues by providing timely intervention and ongoing education to ensure sapling survival and healthy urban green spaces.

Summary Table: Chandigarh Tree Ambulance Initiative

Conclusion

The tree ambulance in Chandigarh exemplifies a proactive, community-driven approach to urban greening, bridging the gap between planting and nurturing trees. By combining expert intervention with public education, the initiative is setting a model for sustainable urban forestry and environmental stewardship