Located in Fatepura village, north of Mahesana city in Gujarat, the Fatepura Van Urban Forest stands as a remarkable example of large-scale urban afforestation and ecological restoration. This government-owned land parcel had been severely degraded, completely overrun by garbage and invasive species Prosopis juliflora and subjected to encroachments from all sides, resulting in the loss of native biodiversity and ecosystem functionality.

In collaboration with the Mahesana Municipal Corporation E.F.I undertook a comprehensive habitat restoration initiative to reclaim and revive the landscape. The project involved the removal of invasive vegetation, recovery of encroached land, establishment of borewell infrastructure, Protective fencing, and the plantation of 7,000 native tree saplings suited to the region’s natural ecology.

Today, Fatepura Vanis a growing forest that will evolve into a thriving native forest and biodiversity hotspot, supporting local flora and fauna while strengthening ecosystem services within the city. This restored green space improves air quality, enhances groundwater recharge, mitigates the urban heat island effect, and contributes to climate resilience and urban sustainability. As a growing native forest ecosystem, it serves as a vital green lung for Mahesana.

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