In order to create and enhance an atmosphere of positivity, serenity and wellness for patients and their families at Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology (KMIO), the hospital management, along with a few NGOs, on Friday planted around 240 species of tree saplings and around 400 species of herbs and shrubs. This green initiative will serve a dual purpose as most of the species are indigenous, medicinal ayurvedic plants.

KMIO had earlier planted around 2,000 tree saplings, shrubs and herbs in two phases. But this is the first time that they are predominantly using medicinal plants.

The species planted on Friday comprise Rudraksha, Ramphal, Brami, Bakula, Jamun, and Lakshman Phal. Flower and fruit-bearing trees have also been planted with the aim of getting more birds, butterflies and squirrels to the campus.

Dr. C. Ramachandra, Director of KMIO, said that such species would not only help the environment but also induce positivity and wellness in patients. “Greenery around the hospital will give relief to stressed cancer patients. We are noticing early positive signs in patients now. Many are happy and some have even volunteered to help in the maintenance work,” he said.

Raising concern over depleting tree cover in urban areas, environmentalist A.N. Yellappa Reddy of Bangalore Environment Trust said that such initiatives are the need of the hour. “This ‘eco-clinic’ increases the quality of air and gives comfort to patients and visitors,” he said.

The project is following the afforestation technique known as Miyawaki after the Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki. G.S. Bhaskar, chairman of Eco Committee of Rotary Bangalore Midtown, which sponsored the samplings, told The Hindu that the Miyawaki method helps in speedy growth of flora even in urban areas which have turned into concrete jungles. “This method will definitely have a positive environmental impact,” he said.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Bengaluru / by Staff Reporter / July 15th, 2019