FLO Chennai, under the leadership of Chairperson Niyati A. Mehta, restored a five-acre area in the Pulney Hills, Western Ghats, as a part of its Sustainability Vertical. The invasive weed Lantana camara, which threatens local biodiversity, was removed, and 2,500 native tree saplings were planted. This initiative was sponsored by Meera Jagdish, Head of FLO’s Sustainability Vertical, and undertaken following directives from the Madras High Court to conserve this vital ecosystem.
The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots. Invasive species like Lantana camara crowd out native plants and disrupt wildlife habitats. FLO members restored this land to help rebuild natural habitats for native flora and fauna. Also, it improved soil and water retention and strengthened the region’s climate resilience.
Local tribal communities are reusing lantana wood to create furniture and crafts, turning waste into sustainable income opportunities. This approach empowers local communities and reduces human-wildlife conflicts.
Action Steps
- Invasive Species Removal
- Cleared five acres of Lantana camara using the cut-root-stock method to prevent regrowth.
- Removed all uprooted clumps to ensure long-term clearing.
- Afforestation
- Planted 2,500 native saplings, selected for compatibility with the local shola forest ecosystem.
- A second batch of 2,500 saplings will be planted during the northeast monsoon.
- Protection Measures
- Installed eco-friendly, solar-powered fencing to protect saplings from wildlife.
- Fencing provides a non-lethal deterrent and will remain for two years during the trees’ establishment phase.
- Care and Monitoring
- Launched a two-year maintenance program with watering, weeding, and monitoring.
- After this period, the trees are expected to thrive independently, outcompeting invasive species.
- Recommendations for Long-Term Sustainability
- Regular monitoring to continue oversight to prevent invasive regrowth.
- Scaling up to use this successful model to restore other areas of the Western Ghats.
- Proper community engagement to strengthen ties with local communities for ongoing conservation and livelihood projects.
This project, under the Sustainability Vertical of FICCI Ladies Organisation and sponsored by Meera Jagdish, showcases how community participation and sustainable practices can restore ecological balance. By removing invasive species, replanting native trees, and ensuring long-term care, this initiative sets a strong precedent for conservation in the Western Ghats.