Urbanization in the name of development might have given rise to magnificent buildings but, at the same time, axing trees is causing major harm to our environment. Discussing a particular issue can never land you with a solution until and unless you start acting on it.

Even at the age of 107, Saalumarada Thimmakka is doing her part as a responsible citizen. With her own resources she planted numerous banyan trees therefore, how could she let any threat approach them? She nurtured those trees with her own hands and when the decision of widening the Bagepalli-Halaguru road came into the picture, she wanted to request Karnataka Chief Minister, H. D. Kumaraswamy not to let that happen.

At first, Saalumarada met Deputy CM G Parameshwara, he heard her request and wrote a letter to his cabinet colleague PWD Minister H D Revanna and after that, she was taken to the CM.

Kumaraswamy not only assured her that the trees will be safe but, also emphasized on the basic development of the place (Hulikal village) where Saalumarada resided for several years.

According to a report by Indian Express, Saalumarada’s adopted son said: “There is outrage after news of the tree axing spread. We must not let this happen. A week ago, Thimmakka had called for massive tree planting as monsoon was nearing. But now she is shocked as the trees which were nurtured by her are expected to be removed. Thimmakka is now happy after CM’s assurance but we are demanding to find a permanent solution to safeguard the heritage tree stretch.”

Padma Shri award winner, Saalumarada is an example for each one of us. Her determination tells us that the urge to do something good for the environment can bring in a huge difference.

Image Courtesy: Metro Saga