Officials said consultants for the project, estimated at Rs 25 crore, will be appointed in the next 15 days. “We will invite landscape specialists, ‘green’ architects and environment activists to participate in the programme. The project will be designed in a phased manner,” said Rama Raman, chairperson and CEO of Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA). “We have already developed 20% of the 1,000 hectares, which falls under Greater Noida’s forest cover,” he added.
The project is aimed at improving the quality of life by restoring ecological balance in towns and cities, Raman said. “Benefits of the green lung will include climate and air quality improvement, energy saving, reduction of global warming and carbon dioxide, noise abatement and soil conservation,” he added.
Forest land covering 800 hectares will be developed as an eco park. The authority will also undertake an afforestation drive and develop water bodies and nature trails. Forest cover will also be increased, officials said.
According to GNIDA officials, the project will include development and maintenance of reserved green areas of the Surajpur wetland, 450 hectares of land adjoining a proposed night safari, and the Mursheedpur-Sikanderabad range. A 300 hectare forest block in Gulistanpur will also be part of the ‘green lung’.
Officials said the final budget of the project will be decided only after consultant is appointed, who will prepare a detailed project report.
“Reserved forest areas falling under Greater Noida will be preserved and maintained. The aim is to enhance forest cover wherever possible, so that a maximum number of people can enjoy it,” said a senior official.
