Hooghly installs QR codes on 249 trees to provide detailed information on species, age, and ecology

Chandannagar, a city with significant historical and ecological value, has initiated a unique project that integrates technology with environmental education. The Chandannagar Municipal Corporation, through its Biodiversity Management Committee and the Biodiversity Department, has placed QR codes on 249 trees in key locations across the city. These trees are located along prominent areas such as Stand Road, Ghat, and the Ranighat region. The QR codes offer detailed information about each tree’s species, age, ecological benefits, and historical context, accessible through a simple scan with a mobile device.

Each tree now has an identity card with a QR code that links to a digital database containing comprehensive details about the tree. Information available includes the tree's scientific name, its age, ecological role, and benefits, such as oxygen production, carbon absorption, and contribution to the local ecosystem. The initiative aims to provide easy access to accurate data for residents, researchers, students, and tourists who wish to learn more about the city's trees and their role in environmental preservation.

The project also includes the addition of a 300-year-old banyan tree located in Ranighat, a historically significant site in the city. This ancient tree has been tagged with a QR code that provides insights into its age, significance, and role in the local ecosystem. The QR code system is part of a broader effort to raise awareness about the city’s rich biodiversity and to encourage environmental conservation through education. Each tree included in the program has been selected based on its historical, cultural, or ecological importance.

The QR codes are connected to a database that pulls information from widely trusted sources, such as Wikipedia and other scientific platforms. This ensures that the data provided is reliable, up-to-date, and accessible to anyone with a smartphone. The QR code project serves as an educational tool for people of all ages and backgrounds, allowing users to quickly learn about the trees they encounter in the city. It also promotes awareness of the importance of tree conservation and the benefits of maintaining green spaces in urban environments.

The rollout of the QR code system has been gradual, with 12 trees officially inaugurated by Chandannagar Mayor Ram Chakraborty. The initiative is expected to expand further, with plans to add more trees to the program in the coming months. This project is part of the city's larger efforts to combine technological advancements with environmental preservation, fostering a deeper connection between the community and its natural heritage.