Sir,

This refers to your report ‘Mysuru set for first-ever tree census, MoU signed’ (Star of Mysore dated Sept. 16, 2025).

I wish to wholeheartedly applaud Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP), the Centre For Advanced Learning (CFAL), JSS Pharmacy College, VVCE, and all supporting organisations for launching such a visionary initiative.

Mysuru, renowned for its heritage charm and lush green boulevards, has long taken pride in being a ‘Garden City’. Yet, like many growing urban centres, it faces pressures from rapid development, illegal felling and shrinking biodiversity.

A tree census will create a scientific and publicly accessible record of our trees — their species, size, health and location. This is more than just data collection; it is the foundation for better planning, conservation and accountability.

What makes this initiative truly inspiring is the collaboration between citizens, academia and Government departments. It demonstrates that protecting the environment is not the responsibility of a single agency, but of the entire community.

To make the census even more meaningful, I urge organisers to actively involve school-going children.

Imagine each school adopting a nearby street or park, with students recording and monitoring trees as part of their science curriculum.

Competitions in photography, art or storytelling can complement the census, making the exercise not only scientific but also creative and memorable.

A ‘Tree Guardianship’ programme can help children build a personal bond with nature, ensuring they grow up as stewards of our environment.

If Mysuru’s young minds are engaged today, tomorrow they will not only count trees but also care for them. That would be the real legacy of this historic tree census.

— Anthony Haslaunger Willi, Mysuru, 18.9.2025

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