Mysuru: In a powerful act of environmental stewardship, members of the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha and Hasiru Sene observed World Earth Day yesterday by removing cement plaster, concrete blocks and asphalt laid around the bases of trees near the Deputy Commissioner’s Office at Siddarthanagar in city.

The effort was aimed at freeing the roots from suffocation, allowing better access to soil, water and air. Activists highlighted that this not only promotes healthier tree growth but also serves as a strong message to the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC): Leave a 2 to 3-ft. radius around tree trunks during road asphalting or concrete laying to protect urban greenery.

With monsoon season approaching, the initiative emphasised the urgency of removing such obstructions within 15 days to ensure rainwater reaches roots and enhances their                   sustainability.

They warned that if MCC fails to act, they themselves will begin clearing cement and asphalt from around trees every Sunday between 6.30 am and 8.30 am. The call was also extended to all Mysureans to replicate similar efforts across the city.

Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha and Hasiru Sene State Secretary Manju Kiran urged citizens to actively preserve the environment, especially protecting long-standing trees.

The movement saw participation of farmer leaders Siddalingapura Mohan Kumar, Galigarahundi and Venkatesh, members of the Siddalingapura Yuva Shakthi Pade Karthik, Kiran, Shivu, Malinga, Abhishek, Shashank, Nagendra, and Hinkal Mohan. Environmental activists from Parisara Balaga, S. Shylajesha, Leela Shivakumar and Kaveramma were also present.