Guwahati: Curiosity strives to rediscover human, nature bond in urban landscapes

GUWAHATI: The deeper connection between human and nature, particularly in urban landscapes, is diminishing rapidly. Aaranyak, through its initiative “Nature’s Wonderland—A Journey of Curiosity,” aims to facilitate nature learning by emphasizing the role of urban biodiversity. The series explores green landscapes, water bodies, flora, fauna, and nature-based traditions practiced by indigenous communities in and around urban areas. Experts from various fields guide nature enthusiasts on this journey, explaining the roles of biotic and abiotic factors, ecosystem significance, environmental challenges, and conservation strategies.

On December 15, Aaranyak, the region’s premier biodiversity conservation organization in collaboration with the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden and Wipro Earthian, organized the Chapter 8 of “Nature’s Wonderland: A Journey of Curiosity.” This event provided students and elderly individuals an opportunity to reconnect with nature within an urban environment.

A total of 30 individuals, including students and their parents, participated in the nature learning programme. The event began with an introductory briefing by Tikendrajit Gogoi, project officer of the Environment Education and Capacity Building Division at Aaranyak.

Pranjal Mahananda, Biologist at Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden; Dr Jayaditya Purkayastha, renowned herpetologist and CEO of Help Earth; Abhisek Sarkar, GIS Expert at Aaranyak and Nitul Kalita, Project Officer of the Tiger Research; Conservation Division (TRCD) of Aaranyak, guided the participants on various aspects of urban biodiversity within Guwahati’s green spaces.

Jayanta Kumar Pathak, senior manager at the Environment Education and Capacity Building Division (EECBD) of Aaranyak, explained the purpose of Nature’s Wonderland and the significance of urban biodiversity and eco-therapy. He shared insights on the healing power of forest bathing and discussed future student involvement in biodiversity documentation within urban landscapes. The entire programme was coordinated by Jayanta Kumar Pathak and Tikendrajit Gogoi of Aaranyak, stated a press release.

 Also Read: Assam: Aaranyak Installs Signage to Address Human-Elephant Conflict

Also Watch: