Mangaluru forest department launches major roadside greening drive with 24,000 saplings

Mangaluru forest department launches major roadside greening drive with 24,000 saplings

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, December 5, 2025: The Forest Department has launched a plan to boost greenery along roadsides in Mangaluru city and its rural stretches by planting a wide range of fruit-bearing and shade-giving trees.

The Mangaluru forest division, which spans from the city limits to Mudipu, Farangipete and Moodbidri, is preparing nearly 4,000 saplings at its Padeel nursery exclusively for roadside planting.

This year’s plantation drive will feature species such as jackfruit, jamun, mango, hibiscus, basavanapada, custard apple, ashoka, breadfruit, almond, punarpuli and other native varieties. Additionally, around 20,000 saplings of teak, sandalwood, red sanders, mahogany, punarpuli, wild lemon, tamarind, bitter neem and bilva will be cultivated for distribution to the public and various organisations.

Three-year maintenance plan

Saplings will be planted only in locations free from overhead electrical lines to ensure safe growth. The Forest Department will maintain all roadside plants for three years after they are planted.

Green cover alarmingly low

Studies indicate a significant decline in Mangaluru’s tree cover. Against the recommended 33% green cover for urban areas, a survey conducted a few years ago found that the city has just 6.24% green cover across public spaces in 50 out of 60 wards. Bandar ward recorded the lowest at 4.72%, followed by Kudroli at 10.70% and Hoige Bazar at 12.84%.

Priority for greenery

“We are prioritising greening across the district. Saplings needed for next year’s plantation and public distribution are already being nurtured in the nursery. After planting along roadsides, the Forest Department will maintain them for three years,” said Antony Mariappa, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Dakshina Kannada.