15 lakh native saplings planted across BDA layouts in mega green drive

In what is likely to be a Guinness World Record, 15 lakh saplings of native species were planted across multiple Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) layouts to mark Kempegowda Jayanti.

According to the BDA, the event witnessed the participation of over 50,000 citizens.

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and BDA Chairperson N.A. Haris planted saplings. Several educational institutions brought students to participate in the drive, which aimed to enhance the city’s green cover.

Mr. Shivakumar said that every school in Bengaluru should take responsibility for one designated area, where children would plant and nurture trees. In this regard, a competition would be organised by the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), he said.

Meanwhile, the BDA organised a marathon in two categories- 5 km and 10 km. The marathon was flagged off at Challaghatta by Kannada film star Kiccha Sudeep.

The route covered the newly built 10-km stretch connecting Magadi Road and Mysore Road. It was part of the inauguration of the 10-lane S.M. Krishna Road.

Mr. Haris claimed that nearly 10,000 citizens participated in the marathon, including a 98-year-old senior citizen.