Turahalli forest to get Earth Day gift from residents

Living on the fringes of Turahalli forest, which was ravaged by forest fires recently, hundreds of citizens in and around Rajarajeshwari Nagar have joined hands to do their bit for conserving the forest. More than 100 citizens, assisted by the Karnataka Forest Department, will sow seed balls all over the forest on Sunday to mark ‘World Earth Day’.

Vigilant residents around Turahalli forest in South Bengaluru have been cooperating with the forest department by spotting fires and helping officials put out the fire. Reclaiming the burnt area after a sharp and short spell of rain a few days ago, the residents have prepared close to 1,500 seed balls.

According to the coordinators, the mud balls include seeds of cashew, soap nut, tamarind, sandalwood, jackfruit, mango and jamun trees. “These native species can grow in Turahalli forest. Since a few days of rain would have made the terrain soft and fertile, we have come together to sow them now. The forest department has also been providing inputs,” said Nivedita Sunkad, a resident who has been coordinating with the volunteers.

Residents have been asked to come with implements to plant the seed balls. The drive will begin from Omkar Hills gate at 7.30 am and go on till noon. Turahalli forest, within Kaggalipura range had witnessed forest fires set off by landgrabbers.