Actor Vivek to plant 10 lakh saplings

CHENNAI: Actor-comedian Vivek, who is famous for spreading messages through his comedy tracks, has now embarked upon the cause of spreading the message about environmental conservation. Encouraged by India’s former President APJ Abdul Kalam on the need to conserve the environment, this comedian has decided to tour around Tamil Nadu and spread the message of protecting the environment and fighting climate change.On Sunday, Exnora International in association with American Eye Center, Comedian Vivek and many other NGOs, launched the Green Kalam Project. The project envisages planting of around 10 lakh saplings in Tamil Nadu of which 10,000 will be in Chennai.Speaking at the launch of the project, Vivek said that it was called Green Kalam as the idea was mooted by Dr Kalam. “Starting from Valasaravalkam, I will plant 10 lakh saplings across Tamil Nadu personally.The last sapling will be planted in Cuddalore by APJ Abdul Kalam himself.This is not a mere publicity stunt by a film personality, but a sincere concern for the environment,” he said.Vivek also said that his fan club will also be engaged in spreading awareness and working for the green cause. Cell Murugan, co-actor and president of All India Vivek Fans Association, was also present during the function.In his familiar witty nature, Vivek explained to the audience that how climate change and temperature rise will be detrimental to humans and how an expanding green cover can help mitigate its effect. “If the temperature rises by 4 degree centigrade as predicted by scientists, we can fry omelette on our heads when we step out,” he said.“I will be travelling across the state, cities and districts spreading the importance of environmental conservation and planting saplings en route. Our people have to be reminded about the advantages of planting trees,” he added.