Bagalakote: The police are on duty without a break. In spite of all this pressure, they have embarked on a new adventure. The police here have worked hard and turned a 5-acre barren land into all green, thus showing their love for the environment.
A total area of 5 acres including Navanagar Reserve Force Ground gives one an experience of the forests. Filled with chirping of birds, fragrance of flowers, and fruit saplings, the site is pleasing to the eyes and mind. This environmental concern of the police is a model for others.
When Bagalakote Superintendent of Police Lokesh Jagalasar visited in February 2020, there were only few trees. Everything else was a barren area. Lokesh, a nature lover encouraged his staff and he himself worked towards growing trees. Inspired by this, 300 personnel of the Reserve Police Force, City Police Station Staff and a team of 30 policemen took a pledge to work and create a green environment. Subsequently some areas were assigned to various teams formed for the purpose.
Green Apple, Mango, Guava, Jackfruit, Custard Apple, Coconut, Banana, Lemon, Orange, Chikku, Tamarind, sild trees like Hebbevu, Almond tree, medicinal plants like Tulasi, Aloevera and such 100 varieties of plants are grown here. Instructions are being sought from the Horticulture University and the Forest Department.
In addition to afforestation, many other special efforts have been made. The police officials themselves have worked hard to build a cottage in dome shape to take rest. Also, chemical fertilisers are not being used,ninstead, they are collecting and using organic manure. Awareness on proper use of water through drip irrigation is being done. The water from the hills, which flows due to the rains, is being utilised properly. They have grown saplings themselves here. Many special efforts have been successful here. Strict instructions have been issued that if any animal or bird, including snakes, scorpions, rabbits, etc., is found while working, they should not be chased away or killed.
Speaking to NewsKarnataka, Bagalakote SP Lokesh Jagalsar said, “starting out as a small effort, today it is a successful venture. With the effort of the police personnel, an area of 5 acres has gone green. Everyone should take care of the environment. The country can survive only if the environment is protected. The environment has given us everything. In return, we have to contribute something from our end.”
Deputy SP Bharath Talawar said, “The afforestration which started in 2020 as per the guidance of SP Lokesh, today has turned five-acre barren area green. It is a relief to have served the environment while performing our duties. Only organic manure is being used and there is also proper utilisation of available water.”
