Nerul: On the occasion of World Environment Day, a large-scale tree plantation drive was organized on June 4 at the Late Ganpat Sheth Tandel Ground in Karave village, Seawoods, under the initiative of ex-MLA Sandeep Naik.

“It is equally important to protect environmental balance and biodiversity alongside development,” said Naik at the event, jointly conducted by the Sandeep Naik Pratishthan and Green Hope Foundation.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from environmental enthusiasts of Navi Mumbai, residents of Karave village, students, volunteers, youth, senior citizens, and sportspersons.

Naik drew attention to critical environmental issues such as deforestation, loss of open spaces, urban concretisation, and rising levels of air, water, and noise pollution. He called for active citizen participation and firm administrative steps towards environmental conservation.

“Tree plantation is not merely an environmental activity but a civic responsibility in the face of declining biodiversity and ecosystem imbalance,” he said. Naik spoke about the need for sustainable solutions in the backdrop of shrinking urban forests, decreasing green open spaces, and growing urbanisation.

He said that developmental activities must proceed in tandem with environmental balance. Environmental conservation should not be limited to World Environment Day, but should be a continuous effort, with everyone contributing throughout the year.