Daijiworld Media Network- Mangaluru

Mangaluru, June 22: In a determined effort to restore the lost green cover of the region, the forest department has initiated a large-scale plantation drive in Mangaluru city and surrounding rural areas.

As part of the campaign, nearly 9,000 saplings will be planted on roadsides and vacant plots, aiming to benefit not just the public, but also the local wildlife, including birds and small animals.

With the monsoon rains setting in across the district, the conditions are ideal for tree plantation. The first phase has already commenced with around 4,000 saplings being planted in areas such as Bajpe, Badaga Ekkaru, Ullal, Mudipu, and several parts of Mangaluru city.

Interestingly, this time the department has placed special emphasis on fruit-bearing and flowering plants. Saplings of jackfruit, mango, violet, amla (nelly), punarpuli, unde huli and mantu huli are among the varieties being planted to enhance biodiversity and provide nourishment to birds and animals.

Alarming green cover stats

Urbanisation and developmental projects have led to the rampant felling of trees in Mangaluru, shrinking the green cover significantly.

According to a previous study, the city ideally needs 33% green coverage, but currently only 6.24% remains. “The unavailability of open space in urban zones is a big challenge,” admit forest officials, who are now coordinating with local ward offices to identify suitable areas for planting.

To boost the city's natural charm, flowering plants such as Basavanapada, Hole Dasavala, Honge, Kakke and Sampige are also being included in the plantation mix.

35,000 saplings for public distribution

The campaign doesn’t end with roadside plantation. A broader plan is in place to distribute and plant 35,000 saplings across temples, mosques, churches, schools, colleges, community halls and local organisations both in urban and rural limits. The forest department has already cultivated these saplings and distribution is currently underway.

Focus on sustainability

Rajesh Balegar, zonal forest officer, Mangaluru, said, “We are not just planting saplings but also giving high priority to their maintenance. Our goal is to ensure long-term survival of these trees so that the city regains its lost greenery.”

This initiative stands as a hopeful green revival for Mangaluru, where environmental consciousness is now taking root through collective action and thoughtful planning.