It is understood that for over three years a group of young men from the locality, led by a college teacher have been visiting the Mandrem hilltop to grow indigenous trees. Since June 2017 this group has reportedly planted around 2,500 saplings on the once barren hilltop.
Every Sunday the citizens and students spend around three hours watering, preparing water harvesting trenches or cutting the weeds that grow around these saplings. It is pertinent to note that the saplings that are planted have to be taken care of and guarded against stray animals during the initial stage of growth.
Many-a-times it is observed that during the Vanamahotsava function the saplings which are planted are left to fend for themselves from the vagaries of nature and stray animals. As a result of this very few of these saplings grow into trees. It is the collective dream of the people of Mandrem to see this hilltop green again. It is understood that the group has collaborated with the forest department to help line the Mandrem coast with 700 Casuarina saplings.
Large numbers of trees are being cut down in the state for ostensibly development work. Hence it becomes absolutely necessary to replenish barren hills with trees. Locals from other villages need to follow in the footsteps of this group from Mandrem and carry out afforestation in their locality.
ADELMO FERNANDES, Vasco
