One-woman revolution in Himachal: How Mandi’s Krishna Thakur turned dump yard into green paradise

‘Vyas Vatika’ a symbol of dedication, proving how resolve can inspire a community and transform environment

MANDI: In a world where many wait for governments and organisations to take action, Krishna Thakur, a retired postal officer from Mandi, has shown that change begins with an individual.
Her story is not just about planting trees, but also about grit, vision and the power of one woman to turn a waste land into a thriving green space now known as ‘Vyas Vatika’.

Journey from garbage to greenery

The land near the Beas river in Bhuli, once used as a dumping ground, is today a sanctuary of medicinal and fruit-bearing trees.

In 2014, driven by deep concern for the environment and inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swachh Bharat and environmental campaigns, Krishna took it upon herself to clean the land and plant saplings.

“People used to throw garbage here. But I saw potential,” Krishna recalls. With limited support and immense determination, she began clearing the area and planting trees — not for recognition, but for regeneration.

Over 350 saplings and counting

What started with a few plants has now become a flourishing green space. Krishna has planted more than 350 trees across Mandi, Jogindernagar, Katoala and Bilaspur.
From neem, peepal, deodar and banyan to guava, mango, amla and pomegranate, her collection is both diverse and medicinally valuable.

“The real joy comes when people tell me that the trees I planted are now bearing fruit,” she says with a smile.

Struggle behind the success

In the early days, there was no water supply for irrigation. Krishna used to carry water from her home, hundreds of metres away, to water the saplings.
Seeing her dedication, former Jal Shakti Minister Mahender Singh Thakur arranged for an official water connection near the site, easing her burden.

Her work did not go unnoticed. Krishna was honoured by Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and praised by local municipal authorities.
Several other social organisations have already honoured for her dedication and commitment towards a greener and cleaner environment.

Mandi Municipal Corporation Mayor Virender Bhatt said, “Krishna Thakur is a role model. Her commitment to the environment shows how powerful individual action can be.”

Not just one day, but a lifelong mission

On World Environment Day, while others were delivering speeches and organising rallies, Krishna was digging pits and planting new saplings. For her, the environment isn’t a one-day agenda, but a lifelong commitment.

She’s not alone in this mission. Her husband, Dr Devendra Thakur, a retired physician, and fellow nature enthusiast Gurcharan Singh have supported her throughout. But the soul of the movement remains Krishna.

Munish Sood