Nagpur: The forest department, which often draws flak for improper conservation of trees planted during special drives, has this time decided to take the help of citizens by urging them to take the responsibility of protecting saplings in their areas.Addressing a meeting organized at Vanasabhagruha, Civil Lines, to review preparations for the tree plantation drive to be held from July 1 to 7, deputy conservator of forest G Mallikarjun said that the motto was to come up with methods to increase public participation. People should also share some responsibility for maintaining the green cover as 30,000 saplings will be planted in and around the city. This will be of immense help to the forest department, he added.Mallikarjun said that the people wishing to join the campaign can contact city forest department office near Zero Mile or go through its Facebook page.Sulabha Chakravarty, honorary chairperson of Kids for Tigers, said, "One method is to promote competitive spirit among individuals, institutions or NGOs working for the protection of environment for planting and monitoring trees."Kishore Mishrikotkar, retired assistant conservator of forests, said, "A public awareness campaign is currently on through a digital van that moves across the city, besides making use of print, social and digital media. We are planning to put up a sapling stall at Japanese Garden, Seminary Hill, from where people can buy plants for personal plantation."The plantation drive will start from State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) campus and Koradi Thermal Plant on July 1. Later, plantations will be done at government residences, high court premises, Nagpur University campus, Seminary Hill, Mihan and army cantonment at Kamptee.(With inputs from Mahima Meshramkar)

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