PPCC is already implementing a green drive aimed at planting 1 lakh saplings across Puducherry. Around 1,500 saplings of various species characteristic of sacred groves were planted on over 3.5 acres of land belonging to Sri Panchanatheeswarar temple at Thiruvandarkovil
The Puducherry Pollution Control Committee (PPCC) launched a major drive to plant saplings of native tree species at Thiruvandarkovil. This was done to increase green cover in Puducherry and create public awareness of the importance and significance of trees.
The PPCC is already implementing a green drive aimed at planting 1 lakh saplings across Puducherry. As part of this initiative, around 1,500 saplings of various species characteristic of sacred groves were planted on over 3.5 acres of land belonging to Sri Panchanatheeswarar temple at Thiruvandarkovil.
The drive was jointly undertaken by PPCC and the Department of Hindu Religious Institutions with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support from M/s TVS Lucas Pvt. Ltd. The plantation drive was launched by Thirubhuvanai MLA P. Angalane recently.
An eco-friendly borewell has been installed, and drip irrigation facilities have been provided to ensure sustainable water management for the sacred grove
According to N. Ramesh, Member Secretary of PPCC, "This sacred grove is expected to sequester approximately 34 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually and produce about 180 tonnes of oxygen per year. During the 2024 Parliamentary Elections, the Election Department estimated that approximately 34 tonnes of carbon dioxide were emitted due to the use of vehicles, ballot materials, and other election-related activities. The creation of this sacred grove forms a key component of the Election Department's initiative to conduct carbon-neutral elections by offsetting emissions likely to arise during the forthcoming Assembly elections."
The sacred grove comprises several tree species with medicinal properties and will serve as a habitat for birds, butterflies, and other biodiversity. The forest produce from the grove will have ecological and traditional medicinal value, Mr. Ramesh said.