Students set example of conservation at park clean-up drives in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: Students and citizens continued to come together for Bengaluru’s neighbourhood parks Saturday under the Times Of India’s #IamBengaluru – Volunteer for Parks, presented by Multigen, in association with Kristu Jayanti University and supported by the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA).At Jakkuru Park, Jala Poshan led a de-weeding and cleaning activity, with more than 50 students from Kristu Jayanti University joining the drive. In JP Nagar Mini Forest, comprising Bhagat Singh Park and Rajguru Park, Youth for Seva led clean-up activities, including park-vicinity cleaning and a plogging drive. At Doddakallasandra Lake Park, YFS volunteers also took part in a plogging and de-weeding activity.The weekend’s participation reflected the growing involvement of young citizens in caring for Bengaluru’s shared spaces, seen as places for recreation, community and a break from the pace of city life.Sunny Gabriel, 3rd year, life sciences, Kristu Jayanti University, said, “We came to Jakkur Lake as a group of 40 students because keeping the surroundings healthy requires effort. Coming here early on a weekend is not always easy, but putting in that effort matters.”Arpita Priya, 3rd year, forensic science, Kristu Jayanti University, added: “Bengaluru is changing rapidly, making it increasingly important for citizens to care for the environment around them. This initiative gives students an opportunity to turn that concern into action, and I hope more people will come forward to volunteer at lakes and other public spaces.”B Sreenadh, software engineer, Cognizant; Nagawara resident, recalled, “I remember Bengaluru’s parks as much greener when I was growing up, but the city’s expansion is changing that landscape. We need citizens to give a few hours each week to protect our community parks.”Jayashree, homemaker, JP Nagar, said, “I had wanted to volunteer for parks and am glad to finally get the opportunity. Parks are used by children, youngsters and senior citizens every day, so keeping them clean is a way of welcoming everyone and encouraging healthier lifestyles. I love walking and running in parks, and they give me a lot of energy.”Ishan, Class 10, Team Evara, NPS Rajajinagar said he has always loved spending time in its parks. “Cleaning the park today made me happy, and I hope initiatives like #IamBengaluru can help bring Bengaluru back to how it used to be.”Nishanth Rao G, IT Employee, Bengaluru South resident, added, “I wanted to help make the park a clean, green and welcoming space where everyone can enjoy spending time. Parks should be places where people come to relax and connect with nature, not avoid because of litter and dirt. I wanted to do my part so that everyone who visit after us feels happy to be here.”Tisha, degree student, MESA College, said, “Lalbagh and Cubbon Park were among the first things I heard about when I came to Bengaluru, and they became part of how I experienced the city. Even a few students can make a difference, and once people see what it takes to clean a park, they may be less likely to take its upkeep for granted.”Citizens can discover upcoming volunteering opportunities and register at iambengaluru.co.inYou Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Bengaluru | Silver Rate in Bengaluru | Bank Holidays in Bengaluru | Public Holidays in Bengaluru | Bengaluru AQI | Weather in Bengaluru | Petrol Price in Bengaluru | Diesel Price in Bengaluru | CNG Price in Bengaluru | LPG Price in BengaluruStay updated with the latest Bengaluru news. Download the TOI App.