'Tree felling inevitable to construct roads'

However, 20,000 saplings have been planted in their place,” informed Mangalore City Corporation Commissioner Dr K N Vijay Prakash at “Vanamahotsava-2011” organised by Pathways Association of St Aloysius College in association with Malabar Gold on Friday at the College Auditorium.

The event was held to create awareness about the destruction of forests and the need for its conservation.

Students from various associations such as Microgen, Bio-chem, Al-music and others took part at the event.

Plant trees on birthdays

Speaking on the occasion, HOD of Botany, Prof Sureshnath stated that man will not be satisfied until every tree on the earth is cut down. He encouraged the students to plant a sapling on their birthdays and make a small contribution in saving the earth.

Stating that green cover surrounded the whole of Mangalore 10 years back, the Commissioner expressed regret that the scenario had changed over the years.

He said that development work could not be avoided, but they would make sure to begin green building initiative, rainwater harvesting and waste management.

5000 saplings distributed

In commemoration of this day, each of the dignitaries planted saplings in pots. Malabar Gold sponsored 5,000 saplings at the event which was distributed to the students to plant in their homes.

Principal Rev Fr Swebert D’silva, Pathways coordinator George, Malabar Gold General Manager Shaeen and Marketing Manager Zakir Husain were present.