Varanasi has entered the Guinness World Records after planting 2,51,446 saplings in one hour during a mega plantation drive at Sujabad Domari in Uttar Pradesh. The achievement surpassed China’s previous record of 1,53,981 saplings set in 2018. The record was verified through drone surveillance and a digital counting system, and the certificate was handed over at the site. The drive was part of a large urban forest project aimed at expanding green cover in the city.
Record-Breaking Plantation Drive
The plantation was carried out over nearly 350 bighas of land. It was organised with participation from the Varanasi Municipal Corporation and several government departments, institutions, and social organisations. Officials said the effort was designed as a model for large-scale urban afforestation.
Urban Forest Design and Species
The forest area has been divided into 60 sectors, each named after prominent ghats of Kashi, such as Dashashwamedh, Manikarnika, Kedar, and Lalita. More than 4,000 saplings were planted in each sector. Around 27 native species were included, such as sheesham, arjun, teak and bamboo. Fruit-bearing trees like mango, guava and papaya, and medicinal plants such as ashwagandha, shatavari and giloy were also planted.
Miyawaki Technique and Irrigation Support
The plantation used the Miyawaki technique, which promotes dense and fast growth of native vegetation. Officials expect the area to develop into a thick green cover within two to three years. To support survival of the saplings, a 10.8-km pipeline network, 10 borewells and 360 rain gun systems have been installed for irrigation.
Participation and Long-Term Plan
The drive saw participation from the Indian Army, NDRF, CRPF, Civil Defence, Provincial Armed Constabulary, Forest and Agriculture departments, Namami Gange, DUDA, students, NCC cadets and NSS volunteers. The project is also expected to generate revenue for the Municipal Corporation under a private agreement, with earnings projected from the third year.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026