The Economic Survey 2024-25, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has spotlighted vertical gardens as a key part of India’s push for sustainable cities. These living walls offer more than just beauty; they help tackle urban challenges like heat, pollution, and biodiversity loss while enhancing the visual appeal of urban areas.
Singapore stands out as a leading example of how to integrate greenery into city life. With its innovative vertical gardens, the city has transformed crowded spaces into vibrant ecosystems. One of the most remarkable sites is Changi Airport’s Jewel, which features a stunning indoor rainforest and the world’s largest indoor waterfall. This six-acre space, filled with thousands of plants and trees, not only wows visitors but also improves air quality and provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle of travel.
Another highlight is Gardens by the Bay, where the impressive Supertrees do more than look good. They collect rainwater and generate solar energy, playing a crucial role in Singapore’s sustainability efforts.
Why should India adopt vertical gardens? As cities grow rapidly, they face issues such as traffic congestion, pollution, and rising temperatures. The Economic Survey suggests that vertical gardens can change the game by turning dull walls into green, air-purifying structures.
One inspiring initiative already in India is led by the Income Tax Department. They’ve repurposed over seven lakh recycled plastic bottles to create vertical gardens across 17 states. This project not only beautifies urban spaces but also offers environmental benefits.
Vertical gardens improve air quality by absorbing harmful pollutants, provide insulation to help buildings save energy, and even boost people’s mental health. Studies show that being around greenery can lower stress and enhance productivity.
The Energy Conservation and Sustainable Building Code (ECSBC) 2024 is also pushing for greener building practices in India. While the code already encourages energy efficiency, the Economic Survey suggests adding specific guidelines for vertical gardens. The Smart City Mission supports these goals by promoting sustainability and quality of life in cities.
Learning from Singapore’s success, India can reshape its regulatory frameworks. Incorporating vertical gardens into building policies and approval processes will help make them a standard feature in urban areas. Some steps to consider include:
– Mandating green facades in building codes
– Offering financial incentives for developers who include vertical gardens
– Encouraging research into sustainable architecture
– Fostering public-private partnerships for green infrastructure
As India moves towards a more sustainable and livable urban landscape, vertical gardens can turn concrete jungles into green spaces, making cities healthier and more enjoyable for everyone.
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Economic Survey 2024-25,green infrastructure,Smart City Mission,urban sustainability,Singapore model,air quality improvement,ECSBC 2024,energy efficiency,Ministry of Jal Shakti,vertical gardens
