Thane: The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) on Wednesday announced the launch of its experimental organic farming project on a 1.5-acre civic-owned plot in Patlipada, along the densely populated Ghodbunder Road. Believed to be the first initiative of its kind by any urban local body in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region—and possibly the state—the project is the brainchild of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. He proposed the idea during the Vrikshavalli exhibition held in Feb this year, encouraging the corporation to set an example in sustainable urban farming.The project was initiated in April by TMC’s gardens department under the supervision of Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao. “A vacant plot was identified in Patlipada, and a crop plan was prepared based on the region’s soil and climate,” a civic official said. “Vegetables such as brinjal, okra, tomato, cabbage, sweet potato, and yam are being cultivated, along with leafy amaranthus and fenugreek. There are also designated plots for rice and gram cultivation.“Fruit-bearing trees such as mango, lemon, banana, fig, custard apple, coconut, and pomegranate have also been planted. An artificial pond has been created on the premises, with water lilies and fish already introduced. While most plants are still growing, officials expect the space to develop into a lush urban farm in the coming months. Future additions include poultry and livestock to make the site more interactive and educational.“The project aims to promote chemical-free farming and encourage residents to grow food in balconies, terraces, or small backyard spaces. Many urban residents have little or no knowledge of farming. This project will offer them hands-on exposure to cultivation, composting, and water management,” said an official. All produce will be donated to orphanages and old-age homes. The farm is open to the public Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm.
