Nagpur, long known for its central location and relatively balanced urban ecology, now stands at a critical environmental juncture. The second greenest city in the country during 2010, does not appear in the top 10 green cities today. In 1936, Nagpur was a compact settlement of barely 16 square kilometres, surrounded by agricultural land and forested tracts. Today, it has expanded more than tenfold, covering over 217 square kilometres. From Green Cover to Concrete Expansion. Agricultural land, forests, and water bodies have gradually given way to residential colonies, commercial hubs, and transport infrastructure. Croplands—once covering nearly 30% of the city area in the early 2000s—have declined sharply to around 4%. Peripheral villages have been absorbed into the urban fabric, often without adequate planning safeguards.

 

Tree census data reveals uneven distribution and declining quality of green cover. Areas such as Seminary Hills and Ambazari retain relatively high tree density, while rapidly developing zones show significant deficits. Mature trees—critical for carbon sequestration and microclimate regulation—are increasingly lost to road widening, infrastructure projects, and real estate expansion. Although compensatory plantation has increased the total number of trees to over 2.6 lakh (as per the mid-term census), the report remains incomplete and raises concerns about quality over quantity. A shift in species composition is also evident. Native species such as neem, banyan, and peepal are gradually being replaced by fast-growing or ornamental exotics. Low survival rates of new plantations further point to gaps in maintenance, monitoring, and community participation.

 

Despite these challenges, the report outlines a clear pathway for recovery. It calls for integrated, evidence-based urban planning that balances development with ecological sustainability. Key measures include protecting remaining agricultural land and green belts, promoting mixed plantations of native species, and developing interconnected urban forest corridors. Creating green islands at road junctions and restoring barren public land can further enhance ecological networks. Stricter enforcement of land-use regulations is essential to curb unplanned expansion. Air quality management must be strengthened through cleaner mobility solutions and improved monitoring systems. Technology can play a critical role. GIS mapping, satellite monitoring, and real-time environmental sensors can help track changes, identify hotspots, and enable timely interventions. Equally important is citizen participation—sustainable urban development requires active community involvement in conservation and responsible living.

 

With timely interventions and strategic planning, Nagpur can still reverse some of the damage and emerge as a model for sustainable urban development. The choice is clear: continue on the current path of unchecked expansion, or move towards a future where growth and environmental stewardship are aligned. (This is an excerpt from the Status of Nagpur Environment report prepared for Lions Club International Environment Service Week (18-24 April). The author is Vice District Governor of Lions District 3234H1 and Ex-Head, Division of Land Use Planning, NBSS & LUP, Nagpur)