Green Belt services

On 25 January 2025, GBS was formally recognized as a unit under the Auroville administrative framework. This milestone has strengthened our capacity to coordinate and implement ecological programs.

• To ensure efficiency and decentralization, the following steps were taken:

• Appointment of three administrators and three field coordinators.

• Division of the Green Belt into four ecological zones.

• Assignment of one field coordinator to each zone for close monitoring, reporting, and coordination with other Auroville working groups.

• This structure enables stronger accountability and systematic field operations across the Green Belt.

3. Activities Undertaken

3.1 Invasive Species Removal

In February 2025, GBS initiated a focused campaign to remove invasive species, particularly Prosopis juliflora, Lantana

camara, and Chromolaena odorata. Eight trained ecological workers were deployed in priority restoration zones in the northern and eastern Green Belt. Removal was carried out through manual uprooting and controlled clearing, with ecological monitoring in place to assess recovery. This effort is a critical step toward restoring native biodiversity and preparing land for future reforestation.

3.2 Enforcement of Tree-Cutting Ban

GBS has continued to uphold the ban on tree cutting and commercial sale of timber and firewood in the Green Belt.

Regular inspections, along with coordination with local stewards, have helped ensure compliance and protect ecological assets from exploitation.

3.3 Tree Survey in Coordination with ATDC

At the request of the Auroville Town Development Council (ATDC), GBS carried out a tree survey along the Crown Roaddevelopment corridor. The work included botanical identification, geo-tagging, and ecological value assessment, leading

to recommendations for preservation. This collaboration has ensured that urban development integrates ecological

considerations.

3.4 Log Management at Woodstock Yard

Under Foundation directives, GBS assisted with comprehensive log sorting and management at Woodstock Yard, in

coordination with the Land Service (Warehouse) team. Logs were sorted by species, quality, and dimensions, with

inventories recorded for responsible community use. This process has improved transparency and reduced risks of misuse.

Looking ahead, GBS has identified the following priorities:

• Expansion of invasive species removal to additional zones by July 2025.

• Strengthening of park management activities, including pathways, sitting areas, and visitor spaces.

• Initiation of phased reforestation programs using plants from the restored nursery.

• Launch of a GIS-based ecological

• Monitoring system for more precise data collection and analysis.

• Organization of workshops and training sessions on sustainable land stewardship for stewards and residents.