Introduction and About
  • Recently, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways inaugurated Oxygen Bird Park (Amrit Mahotsav Park) in Nagpur, Maharashtra.
  • This eco-friendly initiative has been developed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) along with the Nagpur-Hyderabad National Highway-44.
  • The park is home to fast-growing, oxygen-producing trees aimed at combating air pollution and fostering a healthier environment.
Unique Features and Objective
  • The design of the park simulates natural ecosystems to conserve both local and migratory bird species.
  • Its aim is to preserve rare and endangered tree species native to Central India like the Vulnerable Indian Bael, Gum Karaya and the Endangered Yellow Flame of the Forest.
  • Further enhancing its ecological value, the park features a lotus/lily pad pond, a natural water filtration system through a reed bed, along with bamboo and palm plantations.
The Social Forestry Aspect
  • A significant part of Oxygen Bird Park is dedicated to social forestry.
  • Social forestry focuses on growing trees on unused land, either individually, in groups, or in strips. It is an immensely beneficial strategy for attempting to redress the ecological imbalance, while also making constructive use of land resources.
Why Is It in the News?
  • Being a major initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways and the National Highways Authority of India, the inauguration of Oxygen Bird Park has made headlines.
  • Its unique approach to creating an eco-friendly space of rapid oxygen-producing trees within an urban environment not only aims at improving air quality but also provides a habitat for local and migrating birds.
  • The park is in the news for its commitment to conserving rare and endangered species native to Central India, further underscoring its ecological significance.