Mysuru: In a bid to reduce rising temperatures, curb air pollution and enhance biodiversity, a mini-forest developed using the Miyawaki method was inaugurated at a park in front of Shine International School in Rajivnagar recently.

Mysuru City Corporation Commissioner M.K. Savitha formally launched the project by planting saplings and watering them. The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with Toyota Kirloskar Auto Parts Pvt. Ltd. under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.

Speaking on the occasion, Savitha said, developing mini forests across the city was essential to increase green cover, improve oxygen levels and help control environmental pollution.

She urged Toyota Kirloskar to extend similar support to other parks under its CSR initiative.

“For Mysuru to remain clean, beautiful and healthy, growing more trees is vital,” she said.

Savitha stressed that residents have a major role to play in nurturing the saplings and protecting them from damage. The trees, once fully grown in five to six years, will provide shade and help reduce pollution, she added.

17,000 saplings planted

More than 17,000 saplings have already been planted in the parks located in front of Shine International School and Rose Montessori School in Rajivnagar. Toyota Kirloskar has taken responsibility for maintaining the saplings for three years, drawing public appreciation.

Additional Commissioner B.N. Veena, Development Officer Somashekar, Horticulture Department Assistant Executive Engineer Mohan Kumar, Environmental Engineers, Health Inspectors, Horticulture Supervisors and officials & staff of Toyota Kirloskar Auto Parts were present.