To combat the diminishing green cover in Mangaluru City due to rapid urbanization, St Aloysius Educational Institutions has initiated a ‘Fruit Tree Plantation Drive’. This initiative, exclusive to residents within the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) limits, invites all environmental enthusiasts to participate, aiming to transform Mangaluru into a fruit city, stated Arjun Mascarenhas, the program coordinator.
Mascarenhas reported to STOI that the campaign, which began on July 2, has already received positive responses. The initiative not only seeks to enhance the city’s green cover but also promotes sustainable living and local fruit production. “By planting a diverse array of fruit trees, we aim to create a healthier and greener environment that benefits both the community and the ecosystem. This is a great opportunity for individuals and families to get involved in environmental conservation and contribute to a greener future,” he added.
Participants selected for the initiative will receive three fruit-bearing saplings free of cost. They can choose from ten different fruit saplings, including grafted varieties of mango, jackfruit, cashew, and water apple, as well as kokum, Ramphal, Laxmanphal, starfruit, Mysore nerale, and jamun (nerale).
So far, 600 individuals have expressed interest, with 250 from the MCC limits. The goal is to plant about 2,500 saplings annually and reach at least 10,000 saplings in a few years. Drive coordinators will inspect each site to ensure compliance and the successful implementation of the initiative, aiming for a 90% sapling survival rate each year.
To join the initiative, call: 8867027170.