On the occasion of World Environment Day (June 5), a massive tree plantation drive titled ‘Green Revolution’ was launched at the District Magistrate’s Office premises in Padil, Mangaluru. This initiative is a symbolic step to reverse the environmental damage caused when over 500 trees were axed at the same location seven to eight years ago.
The campaign is a joint effort by the District Administration, Forest Department, and several eco-conscious organizations, spearheaded by the environmental group ‘Amar’, led by Dr. Smita Hegde.
Dr. Anand, In-charge District Magistrate and G.P. CEO, formally inaugurated the campaign by planting a sapling. He emphasized the importance of the ongoing monsoon season, calling it the ideal time for plantation efforts.
Deputy Conservator of Forests Antony Mariyappa revealed that while 5 lakh trees are planted annually in forest zones across Dakshina Kannada, 1.03 lakh saplings will now be distributed through various NGOs for plantation in urban and rural areas. He noted that although development projects like the Mangaluru-Bengaluru highway have led to the felling of 1.39 lakh trees over 100 acres, compensatory afforestation is being actively pursued to restore ecological balance.
Dr. Smita Hegde shared that 10,000 trees will be planted under the ‘Amar’ campaign by August, with 4500 locations already identified. Emphasis is on native fruit-bearing species like Mango, Hebbalasu, and Antuwala, especially along roadsides and medians from Baliga Stores to Airport Road, including 350 trees at the DC office premises.
Present at the event were Additional DC Dr. Santosh, MCC Commissioner Ravichandra Nayak, Dr. Arun Kumar (Animal Husbandry Dept.), environmentalist Jeet Milan, and others.
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