Sir,

I am an alumnus of the University of Mysore (1987 batch), currently residing in Mysuru. As a former student of the Department of Geography, I hold a deep sense of pride and connection with our University and visit the sprawling Manasagangothri campus daily for my morning walks.

The serene, lush environment of the University, spanning approximately 750 acres, including the Kukkarahalli Lake, is truly a blessing. It offers clean air, rich biodiversity with trees, birds, and animals, and serves as a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

This beautiful campus, shaped by visionaries like the former Vice-Chancellor and Rashtrakavi Kuvempu, is not just a heritage site but a sanctuary for the community, including retired professors, students and local residents. However, it is disheartening to observe issues that threaten the environment and sanctity of the campus:

• Plastic and garbage: Increasing amounts of plastic waste and roadside litter, including alcohol bottles, are particularly visible around the Buddha statue area, often left behind after student celebrations.

• Street dogs: The campus is home to a significant number of stray dogs (approximately 50-60), raising safety concerns.

• Lack of garbage bins: Insufficient waste disposal facilities, especially near student hostels, lead to improper waste management.

Suggestions for improvement:

1. Garbage disposal: Install separate garbage bins for wet and recyclable waste across the campus, particularly near hostels and high-activity areas.

2. Awareness campaigns: Launch initiatives to educate students about maintaining cleanliness and protecting the environment. Faculty members can contribute by counselling students on these issues.

3. Plastic and alcohol-free zone: Implement clear guidelines to make the campus plastic-free and alcohol-free, with proper enforcement.

4. Monthly inspections: Organise monthly campus walks for the administration to personally observe and address concerns.

5. Stray dog management: Adopt humane measures to control the stray dog population, ensuring the safety of everyone on campus.

I firmly believe these steps will help restore the campus to its former glory, creating an environment that reflects the values and legacy of our University.

— M. Venkatesh,  Jayalakshmipuram,  30.12.2024

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