Archive · 15 Sep 2025
Family Transforms Barren Land into Forest Retreat Near Mumbai
A family saw a problem: land being burned and destroyed.
They decided to buy a large area and fix it.
They planted over a million trees to bring the forest back to life.
They also used solar power and composted waste.
The family worked with locals, teaching them how to protect the land.
They conduct training programs, and workshops for the community.
Now, it is a thriving retreat powered by nature where you can relax and enjoy the forest.
The family purchased land in Shillim, Maharashtra to address environmental issues.
They planted over one million trees to reforest the area.
The retreat utilizes solar energy and eco-friendly practices.
The family worked with locals to stop harmful practices like slash and burn.
The Shillim Institute conducts ecological surveys and community programs.
- Who
- William and Denzil de Souza family
- What
- Transformed 2,500 acres of barren land into a forest retreat.
- When
- Started in 1985, with decades-long conservation efforts.
- Where
- Shillim, Maharashtra, India
- Why
- To preserve the environment and bring back native forests and wildlife.
- Location
- Shillim, Maharashtra, India
- Land Area
- 2,500 acres
- Trees Planted
- Over one million
- Energy Source
- Solar energy
- Key Initiative
- Eco-restoration and Conservation