Chief Secretary Jugal Kishore Mohapatra on Tuesday urged upon the city dwellers to conserve electricity, water and fuel and take appropriate steps for solid waste management at their household levels in order to make their respective cities greener.
Mohapatra said this while addressing a gathering on the occasion of the World Earth Day observed here on behalf of the State Forest and Environment Department.“We regard the Earth as our mother. We should take utmost care to protect it from various hazardous effects by being conscious. Then only, the present and future generations can lead a progressive life,” Mohapatra said.
Focusing on the theme “Green Cities”, Mohapatra said, “We can bring about great changes through small acts in letter and spirit. We can conserve energy at home and workplaces. Similarly, we can conserve water through appropriate use and harvest rain water. We can lessen carbon monoxide release into the air by reducing frequent use of individual motor vehiles.” He said proper solid waste management at household levels is another step towards making of a green city.
Citing ‘Smruti Mandap’ located near Patrapada on the city outskirt, the Chief Secretary said people can plant trees on the memorable occasions of their lives.Forest and Environment Department Secretary RK Sharma in his address said, “We have to take care, protect and beautify the mother Earth as we take care of our own mother.”
Prof RK Panda of the School of Earth, Ocean and Climate Change Department of the IIT, Bhubaneswar narrated ways, means and techniques for rain water harvesting, ground water recharge and recycle use of water in his address. Principal Chief of Conservator of Forest (PCCF) JD Sharma also spoke on the occasion.
The guests were presented with flower plants instead of flower bouquets on the occasion.