Mysuru:  Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP) has announced plans to hold a silent ‘appiko chaluvali’ (protest by hugging trees) on Sept. 14 at 9.30 am in front of the Deputy Commissioner’s (DC) residence on Hunsur Road, protesting the practice of wrapping decorative illumination wires around trees during the Dasara festivities.

Environmentalists and green activists have strongly opposed this method, pointing out that it has been scientifically proven to harm trees.

They argue that when Mysuru is making dedicated efforts to improve its green cover by planting and preserving trees, it is deeply ironic that certain Dasara authorities are engaging in practices that endanger them.

What makes the situation more concerning, MGP said, is that Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) Paramesh has already raised the issue with both the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) Commissioner and the DC, urging them to prevent the use of trees for illumination.

The DC has reportedly assured that action will be taken to stop such harmful activities.

However, despite these assurances, trees right outside the DC’s own residence are being prepared for illumination by wrapping wires around them, which MGP calls a blatant disregard for environmental guidelines.

The silent protest aims to support the Forest Department’s stance and demand immediate intervention to ensure that eco-friendly and sustainable practices are followed during Dasara celebrations.