HT Bureau
TEZPUR, June 13: Udropon, a unique environmental conservation initiative founded by Darrang College faculty member and noted environmentalist Prof Harendra Nath Marang, celebrated its 11th foundation day on Saturday with the plantation of more than 1,000 Indian cork tree (Ejar) saplings at the playground of Tezpur Collegiate Higher Secondary School.
Founded on June 13, 2015, Udropon aims to enhance Tezpur’s urban landscape through the plantation of flowering and indigenous tree species while promoting environmental awareness and ecological sustainability.
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Over the past decade, the initiative has planted numerous species, including Sonaru, Ejar, white and pink Kanchan, red Kanchan and Jacaranda, across different parts of Tezpur.
The movement has gradually evolved into a community-driven effort, attracting increasing participation from environmentally conscious youths and citizens.
A distinctive feature of the campaign is the installation of Birikh Behu—protective enclosures around saplings carrying messages on environmental conservation and the importance of trees.
These structures are designed to safeguard young plants while simultaneously creating awareness among the public.
Addressing the gathering, Prof Marang, recipient of the Haren Bothra Memorial Environment Award, expressed concern over the declining tree cover in India and highlighted the importance of afforestation in combating climate change.
He pointed out that while Canada has nearly 8,953 trees per person, India has an average of only 28 trees per capita.
Stressing the environmental benefits of tree plantation, he noted that a single tree can absorb approximately 22 kilograms of carbon dioxide annually, helping maintain ecological balance and mitigate the effects of global warming.
Prof Marang also appealed to citizens to actively participate in plantation drives and protect existing trees, particularly at a time when indiscriminate felling of trees continues in many parts of Assam.
The anniversary programme was attended by Darrang College Principal Dr Palashmani Saikia, Tezpur Collegiate Higher Secondary School Headmaster Robin Barua, Darrang College Botany Professor Dr Bidhan Bora, Baan Theatre Secretary Pankaj Barua, writer Dilip Kumar Barua and Mising Bane Kebang leader Dinen Pegu, among others.
Students of Tezpur Collegiate Higher Secondary School also participated enthusiastically in the plantation drive, contributing to the initiative’s mission of creating a greener and more sustainable future.
