Handover of the 10-hectare Herbivore Safari park area which has undergone ecological restoration with native sapling plantation

Bengaluru: Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) handed over to the Zoo Authority of Karnataka an Ecological Restoration Project of 10 hectares in the Herbivore Safari Zone of Bannerghatta Biological Park. The initiative is in line with the TKM’s Harmony with Nature – Green Wave projects and is part of Corporate Environmental Responsibility (CER) commitment towards biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability.

The project was handed over in the presence of Mr. A V Surya Sen IFS, Executive Director, Bannerghatta Biological Park, Mr. A Ramesh Rao, Vice President, External Affairs, Senior leadership from TKM and other officials from the Bannerghatta Biological Park.

The project involved scientific weed removal and afforestation with native saplings to restore ecological balance, enhance habitat quality and promote biodiversity. The initiative is also expected to improve forage availability for herbivore species within the park, contributing to overall wildlife well-being.

Given the presence of herbivores within the safari zone, protective measures are implemented to ensure the survival of young plantations. Solar fencing is installed around the restoration area to prevent grazing on newly planted saplings. This system will remain in place for approximately two years, allowing adequate time for the saplings to mature to a stage where they can withstand natural grazing pressure.

To further strengthen the sustainability of the initiative, the project includes the installation of a borewell supported by solar-powered pumping system. This renewable-energy-based irrigation solution will ensure a reliable water supply, particularly during dry seasons, improving sapling survival rates and supporting healthy growth.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. A V Surya Sen IFS, Executive Director, Bannerghatta Biological Park said, “Public-private partnerships play a crucial role in strengthening conservation efforts across Karnataka. This initiative by Toyota Kirloskar Motor demonstrates how the industry can actively contribute to restoring ecosystems and enhancing wildlife habitats. The integration of renewable energy solutions further reflects a responsible and sustainable approach to environmental stewardship.”

Mr. B. Padmanabha, Executive Vice President & Director, Manufacturing, Toyota Kirloskar Motor stated, “At TKM, we believe that biodiversity conservation is a fundamental pillar of sustainable development. This project reflects our commitment to the Harmony with Nature initiative under the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050. By implementing scientific weed management, native afforestation, protective measures for young plantations, and renewable-energy-powered infrastructure, we seek to restore ecological balance and foster a resilient, self-sustaining ecosystem.”