NGO plants medicinal saplings, creates awareness on lakes

 

Eco-Watch, in association with the Forest Department officials along with volunteers from Intel and students from Christ College (CSA) conducted a “Lake Restoration and Awareness Campaign” at Madiwala Lake.

 

Medicinal plant species identification and labeling using sign boards, segregation and clean up of waste from park area, composting of organic waste and a survey using questionnaire and distribution of awareness material to the community were some of the activities that attracted large number of people.

 

Volunteers were divided in different groups and carried out various activities as a part of the awareness campaign. Akshay Heblikar, Director (Projects), Eco Watch said, “The Madiwala Lake is a critical water link between Sarjapur and Bannerghatta and it is imperative to save it from encroachment. If the local people are not sensitised about environmental issues, there is no hope. Environmental protection is a continuous effort and that is what we strive to achieve.”

 

The Madiwala Lake is one of the most important lakes of Bangalore which has been sustaining groundwater resources. It is also a direct source of livelihood for various communities living in the surrounding and indirectly supports the climate and environment of Bangalore.

 

—Neha Nandakumar and  Kavita Mallya