Mysuru: The Forest Department and Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) have drawn up plans to plant 2.46 lakh seedlings across Mysuru city and district during the 2025-26 financial year as part of efforts to improve green cover and promote environmental sustainability. The initiative coincides with World Environment Day celebrations and aims to address the city’s growing environmental concerns.

Officials said the large-scale plantation drive will be undertaken with the support of various government departments, local bodies, private organisations and volunteers.

Forest Department targets 1.78 lakh seedlings

Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), Mysuru Territorial Division, K. Paramesha said the Forest Department plans to plant a total of 1,78,400 seedlings during the year.

Of these, 34,400 seedlings will be planted under the Greening Urban Range programme within Mysuru city limits. The initiative will be carried out in coordination with the district administration, Mysore Development Authority (MDA), Mysuru City Corporation and several organisations.

Officials said saplings have been pooled from multiple sources, while MCC has identified suitable public spaces for plantation. Private organisations are also extending support by providing tree guards and other resources required for protecting the saplings.

The Forest Department has also prepared a maintenance plan to ensure the survival of the planted trees. Watchers will be deployed to monitor, protect and water the saplings regularly.

Seedlings to be distributed among farmers and public

In addition to plantation activities, the department will distribute 1.44 lakh seedlings to farmers and members of the public during the ongoing monsoon season.

Range Forest Officer and Tree Officer Mohammed Zeeshan said a variety of species have been selected for planting, including teak, neem, java plum (nerale), guava, sandalwood, Indian beech, mahogany and jackfruit.

The choice of species has been made to ensure ecological benefits while enhancing the city’s biodiversity and green cover.

MCC plans Miyawaki forests in city parks

Mysuru City Corporation has independently planned to plant 68,000 seedlings across the city this year.

According to Assistant Executive Engineer (Horticulture) P. K. Mohan Kumar, around 13,000 seedlings, including 5,000 supplied by the Forest Department, will be planted in public spaces.

MCC is also focusing on the development of Miyawaki forests in five city parks. Nearly 60,000 seedlings will be planted under this initiative to create dense urban forests capable of improving air quality and reducing urban heat.

The Miyawaki method has gained popularity in urban areas for its ability to establish fast-growing green spaces within a limited area.

Organisations join World Environment Day drive

On the occasion of World Environment Day, the Forest Department distributed 7,415 seedlings to 28 organisations for plantation activities.

These saplings are being planted in private layouts, government institution campuses, schools and other public spaces.

Among the participating organisations, Mysuru City Corporation is planting 500 seedlings, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is planting 700 seedlings, the Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute (CSRTI) is planting 2,000 seedlings, while the CISF unit at RMP is planting 1,000 seedlings.

Officials said such collaborative efforts are essential for expanding urban greenery and encouraging public participation in environmental conservation.

Green cover remains below recommended levels

Despite being known as one of Karnataka’s greener cities, Mysuru currently has a green cover of only 14%, significantly below the recommended 33%.

Environmental experts have expressed concern over rising temperatures and shrinking green spaces. According to meteorological data, Mysuru recorded a maximum temperature of 37.2 degrees Celsius on April 24 and 36 degrees Celsius on March 27 this year.

Officials believe that increasing tree cover will help mitigate the effects of urban heat and contribute to long-term climate resilience.

Awareness campaign to promote tree conservation

The Forest Department is also focusing on creating awareness about planting suitable tree species in appropriate locations.

Officials noted that permissions are often sought under the Karnataka Tree Preservation Act, 1976, to remove trees for developmental projects such as road widening and infrastructure works. Trees are also removed in some cases to protect life and property.

To minimise such situations, the department plans to educate the public on selecting the right species and planting them in suitable areas.

As part of the awareness drive, the Forest Department will collaborate with Mysore Grahakara Parishat to organise programmes such as Kaadu Habba and Parisara Habba, aimed at promoting tree conservation and environmental responsibility among citizens.

The plantation campaign is expected to play a significant role in improving Mysuru’s green cover while fostering greater public participation in environmental protection.