Make growing Kochi green

KOCHI: On its tenth anniversary, the City Express launches a theme campaign for the year-Green Kochi. Increasing construction activities coupled with shrinking open spaces have been ringing alarm bells for the growing metro. A final attempt to reclaim the green pastures of Kochi.Alarmed by the increasing threats to the environment, the state Forest Department has been pro-active with a slew of measures for preserving the city’s green cover. A massive mission for better Mangalavanam - the green lungs of Kochi, a major coastal clean-up initiative and the reinstatement of mangroves are part of the mission undertaken by the forest officials.  “The wide expanse of backwaters and low-lying wetlands, heavy short downpours, acute pressure of development, rapidly depleting tree cover, rampant reclamation of wetlands, loss of bio-diversity, chaotic traffic, mosquitoes, drinking water shortage, unscientific waste disposal and increasing pollution are some characteristics of Kochi. Hence, all developmental activities should focus on these factors,” pointed out B S Corrie, Additional PCCF, state Forest Department. Stopping green and open spaces from evading the city and a welcome trend in green architecture are some initiatives towards a Green Kochi. Also, there should be more focus on water-based transport system. Developing Kochi’s waterways is of prime importance. An about Rs 50-lakh project is getting ready at Managalavanam as part of ensuring a green cover for Kochi. A couple of projects have been launched for the purpose of protecting the renowned bird sanctuary.  “Protecting the population of bats in this green stretch is one of the main initiatives as 2012 is the international year of bats. If anyone comes forward identifying land for planting saplings, the Forest Department will associate with them. Initiatives like ‘Ente Maram’ and ‘Nammude Maram’ are being launched with an aim to protect the city’s green cover. It is appreciable that the City Express has come forward with the green Kochi campaign,” opined H Nagesh Prabhu, CCF (Social Forestry).