Mangaluru: A significant afforestation initiative has begun at the Pilikula Golf Club with the goal of planting 4,000 native trees. The campaign is part of the “Amar (Prakrutiye Pragati) – Plant a Tree, Adopt a Tree” programme, launched recently by Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner Mullai Muhilan MP.
Environmentalist Jeeth Milan Roche, spearheading the movement, shared with TOI that this massive green push is focused on replacing the existing acacia trees within the golf course. As part of the ecological revival and course enhancement plan, over 4,000 pits have been prepared. So far, 2,200 saplings have already been planted, and regular watering is ongoing.
The project includes a special effort to plant 150 to 180 traditional mango tree varieties. These saplings are being sourced from Dr. P Manohara Upadhya, a veterinary doctor behind the ‘Maavu Mantapa’ gene bank, which is committed to conserving rare mango breeds native to regions like Kasaragod, Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Kodagu, and Uttara Kannada.
Roche emphasized the exclusive use of treated water and added that dense planting is also planned beyond the course boundary using trench plantation techniques. Notably, planting has begun ahead of the monsoon, allowing saplings time to establish roots. However, he noted the physical toll and expense involved, particularly given the rocky laterite soil and intense heat.
Golf Club Captain Manoj Shetty said their aim is to transform the course into an international-standard venue by removing 400 acacia trees and introducing 9,000 native plants in total.
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