Marina’s sheen gets a boost with green

An initiative of the Corporation of Chennai, the civic body first planted six mature trees on a trial basis in June. After they took root, it transplanted 100 Peltophorums (Copperpods), stretching from the Lighthouse to the Labour Statue . A mature tree can reach a height of 30 feet and is known to spread out, offering huge amount of shade. It flowers in April. The initiative has gone down well with the beach-goers. “It is really a great idea, and it gives a different atmosphere and a pleasanter look to the beach,” said N Sujatha, a resident of Triplicane. 

Green activists, while welcoming the move feel the civic agency should also look at preserving native species. Shobha Menon, Founder and Trustee of Nizhal, said, “It’s really good to see the passion and interest towards planting of trees in the city. But the Corporation must also focus on bringing back our native species like Ponnai, Poovarasu, etc,” she added. Vijaya Baskar, President, Green Grass Exnora, Chennai, said, “The expense in transferring trees is too high. The Corporation must consider buying new tress and planting them. Handling and taking care of these types of transferred trees are technically difficult, as we have seen in the past, “he said.