On this day of conserving and protecting our natural resources, read this article to find out how the very popular ARAI Hills are not only a hiking spot, but also aid in conserving the bio-diversity of Pune.
Earth has about 8.1 billion people inhabiting it. To live a comfortable life all these people need food, shelter and clothes. But to sustain these three resources of livelihood and even life itself, the most important resources are that which are given to us by nature. Life on Earth is only possible through the presence of water, sunlight, minerals, fertile soil and fossil fuels.
And these very crucial resources are only found in nature which eight billion people make use of everyday. So to spread awareness about sustainable consumption and conservation of these resources, every year on July 28th we celebrate World Nature Conservation Day.
There is no planet B. We have to take care of the one we have. – Richard Branson
Maharashtra is also a hotspot of bio-diversity and natural resources with the Sahyadri (Western Ghats) surrounding it. Pune as a district has also been blessed with mountains, forests and lakes. One of the most importance contributors are the ARAI Hills.
Famous as a hiking and picnic spot, these hills are home to many rare birds. In a recent it was found that ARAI, aka Vetal Tekdi, is home to over hundreds of unique species which are not found in the city.
Freshwater diversity
Due to optimum temperature, adequate rainfall and presence of pollinators, the quarry ponds of ARAI an enriching habitat for 150 species of invertebrates. The presence of invertebrates in the eco-system indicates how healthy the condition of inhabitation is. Invertebrates also pollinate and disperse seeds, recycle soil nutrients, act as food for wild-life and clean water. Thus, the ARAI hills and these animals share a special symbiotic relationship. The hills provide them with good living conditions and in return the invertebrates keep the ecosystem of the hill healthy, clean and beautiful