In Pune, India, a group of dedicated volunteers is turning tree mapping into a vital tool to safeguard the city’s riparian zones amid rapid urban growth. Armed with smartphones and measuring tapes, these citizen scientists collect detailed data every weekend, aiming for a greener future.
- Volunteers map trees in Pune’s riparian zones using a citizen science app.
- Effort supports environmental activism and urban biodiversity.
- Community-driven data helps monitor and prevent illegal tree felling.
What happened
Every weekend in Pune, a group of volunteers gathers by the banks of the Mula River, equipped with smartphones and measuring tapes. Their mission is to systematically map trees in local riparian areas, using the iNaturalist app to record species, size, and location. This citizen science project grew out of concern for the city’s green spaces amid the Pune Riverfront Development Project, a large urban redevelopment plan.
Since 2024, the initiative has evolved from informal tree counting to a more technical and organized effort. By dividing mapped areas along the riverbank, volunteers document over 50 tree species, including banyan and yellow flame trees. This data is shared openly within the app, creating a detailed, accessible record that supports conservation and environmental advocacy.
Why it feels good
Pune is a rapidly urbanizing city with nearly 8 million residents, where deforestation and pollution have impacted the local environment deeply. Volunteers like Ananya Gandhi, who has witnessed the city's transformation, find fulfillment in protecting natural spaces that offer tranquility and biodiversity. The tree mapping fosters a sense of stewardship and connection to the environment.
This grassroots effort empowers citizens to contribute to meaningful environmental change. By gathering clear evidence of tree locations and species, the group can push back against illegal tree felling and urban projects that threaten these precious areas. The project strengthens community bonds and inspires hope for a greener future in an increasingly crowded metropolis.
What to enjoy or watch next
Keep an eye on the Pune River Revival movement as volunteers continue expanding their mapping efforts, particularly their work along the Mutha River biodiversity project. Their detailed digital records are becoming crucial in shaping city planning conversations and helping maintain urban forest corridors.
For those inspired by Pune’s community actions, exploring platforms like iNaturalist can connect you with similar citizen science projects worldwide. Watching how citizen-generated data influences policy and urban conservation in Pune may offer valuable lessons and motivation for other cities facing rapid growth.