Pondy Lt Governor underlines need to conserve, protect trees

Lieutenant governor of Puducherry Kiran Bedi, who has been pitching for a green and water-rich Puducherry, on Saturday launched a drive to conserve and protect trees. She, along with staff of her office, pedalled to thebotanical garden set up by a French botanist at Odiansalai and tied a 'sacred' rope around a 192-year-old tree in the sprawling garden.

She underlined the need to conserve forests and trees. She said in her whatsapp message that 'trees will protect us if we protect them.' This was Kiran Bedi`s 229th weekend visitin and around the town to propagate various important themes. The staff of Raj Nivas, who accompanied her, also tied the ropes around various trees.

Director of Agriculture B Balagandhi explained to the Lt Governor the various features of the garden. The former IPS officer said that just as brothers and sisters tie `rakhis` to promote affection on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan `we should also promote our bond and love for the trees as protection of the trees would have a very significant impact and procure benefits.' Also, Bedi reviewed the rainwater harvesting structures in the garden..