Chandigarh: The decades-old Dadu Majra dumping ground, once considered one of Chandigarh’s biggest environmental challenges, is set to undergo a major transformation as the Municipal Corporation plans to develop the area into a green forest.
The site, which was earlier known for mountains of accumulated waste, foul odour and pollution concerns, will now be converted into an urban forest after the successful scientific treatment and removal of legacy waste.
The initiative aims to create a new environmental zone focused on greenery, biodiversity conservation and sustainable urban development.
Legacy Waste Remediation Completed After Five-Year Bio-Mining Project
The scientific disposal of old waste through bio-mining at Dadu Majra began in 2019.
The Municipal Corporation invested more than ₹101 crore in the project, which started in November 2019.
Over nearly five years, millions of metric tonnes of accumulated legacy waste were processed scientifically. The waste was segregated into different categories, treated and removed, making the land suitable for future development.
The completion of this project marks a major step towards resolving one of Chandigarh’s longest-standing environmental issues.
10,000 Saplings to Be Planted in First Phase of Urban Forest Development
Following the clearance of waste, plantation work has started at the site.
In the first phase, around 10,000 saplings will be planted, including:
- Bamboo plants
- Roses
- Mogra
- Raat Rani
- Camphor trees
- Shade-giving trees
- Fruit-bearing trees
- Native plant species
The plantation drive is not limited to beautification. The objective is to create a natural urban forest that improves biodiversity and provides a habitat for birds and other wildlife.
Dadu Majra Site to Become Environmental and Recreational Hub
According to the Municipal Corporation’s plan, the transformed area will gradually include several public facilities such as:
- Walking tracks
- Seating areas
- Open-air gym facilities
- Nature trails
- Environmental awareness zones
The development will encourage citizens to connect with nature while promoting healthier urban living.
Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria has also directed officials to develop necessary facilities as part of the transformation plan.
Urban Forest to Strengthen Chandigarh’s Green Cover
Chandigarh is already among India’s leading green cities, with its green cover showing significant growth over the years.
According to available figures:
- Green cover was around 38% in 2013
- Increased to 45% in 2022
- Reached approximately 51.6% in 2026
The new urban forest at Dadu Majra is expected to further enhance the city’s green cover and strengthen its environmental sustainability.
From Waste Dump to City’s Green Lung
The transformation of Dadu Majra represents a major environmental turnaround for Chandigarh.
The area that was once associated with pollution and waste management challenges is expected to become a centre for clean air, greenery and ecological balance in the coming years.
With planned plantation, biodiversity development and recreational facilities, the former dumping ground is set to emerge as a new green lung of Chandigarh, supporting a cleaner and healthier urban environment.
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