Environmentalists led by Sahyadri Sanchaya organised ‘Nadi-Vana Rodana’ on Independence Day in front of Deputy Commissioner’s office in Mangaluru on Tuesday, drawing attention towards the destruction of Western Ghats.
Students of Swaroopa Adhyayana Kendra, Mangaluru, staged a skit, and said, “We have attained independence, but, we have been misusing the freedom. A situation has arisen where we have to fight to save Nature. Unfortunately, the government is engaged in taking up projects that are harmful to the environment.”
They sang “Elli Hodavu, Kannige Kaanadavu....” Sahyadri Sanchaya convener Dinesh Holla said, “Although we are celebrating the 71st Independence Day, the Western Ghats and River Netravati are yet to get freedom. Even when the river is drying up, the government is trying to divert the river from the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats. The programme aimed at creating awareness on protection of sources of river.”
He said “Our forefathers have given us clean environment and Nature. However, in the name of development, we have been misusing Nature. The government is making the rich and green land barren. Instead of celebrating Independence Day, we are forced to fight to safeguard nature.”
Swaroopa Adhyayana Kendra head Gopadkar said, “When the education system has failed to do so. If we fail to create awareness on Nature among children, we cannot dream of a strong India in the future.”
Deccan Herald is on WhatsApp Channels | Join now for Breaking News & Editor's Picks