India, March 4 -- Known for its well-planned infrastructure and green spaces, Navi Mumbai is set to enhance its ecological footprint with an ambitious expansion of its green belt by 40 hectares. The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has outlined extensive environmental initiatives, including tree and bamboo plantations, botanical and butterfly gardens, as part of its 2025-26 development agenda.

The civic body has earmarked Rs.74 crore for these green initiatives, proposing the plantation of various indigenous tree species along roadsides, in open spaces within city limits, and at the NMMC-owned Morbe Dam. Municipal commissioner Kailas Shinde, who also heads the Tree Authority, stated that under the Majhi Vasundhara campaign, 45,00...