BENGALURU, 11 JUNE 

Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister DK Shivakumar announced that Bengaluru has become a C40 category city for its efforts in mitigating climate change. C40 is a global network of the world’s leading cities that are united in action to confront the climate crisis by cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions and carrying out other ecofriendly activities.

The recognition is credited to a Climate Action Cell set up by State government for the Capital City. The cell includes representation from departments such as BWSSB, BESCOM, BMTC, BTP, BMRCL, DULT, solid waste management, Pollution Control Board, forest, industry and mining, Shivakumar said on Tuesday.

To address water scarcity, the Climate Action Cell is launching a crowd-sourcing activity for mapping open wells, which have been integral to Bengaluru's water security. Identified wells will be rejuvenated through a scientifically developed standard operating protocol.

Shivakumar announced 'Fellows of Climate Action Cell' programme, which will recruit young professionals with relevant experience to support climate actions in Bengaluru. These fellows will receive a stipend and work under the supervision of the cell to improve resilience, adaptation and mitigation efforts in the City.

The Bengaluru Development Minister reviewed the implementation of Climate Action and Resilience Plan for Bengaluru (BCAP) 2023 which contributed to the City's climate change actions. Shivakumar highlighted the successful completion of the 'Hasiru Rakshaka' project, a sapling plantation programme across all BBMP zones. Last year, BBMP planted 1 lakh saplings and distributed 50,000 more to the public, involving 250 schools and 52,000 students. This year, the government plans to plant 2 lakh saplings, engaging even more schools and students. “A mobile app has been prepared to check if the schools have agreed with the policy and these plants are growing healthy,” Shivakumar said.

Additionally, BBMP has invited eight tenders to conduct a tree census across the City. So far, 94,000 trees have been enumerated, with Vidyapeeta and Katriguppe wards in Bommanahalli zone being fully completed.

Shivakumar also said Bengaluru has joined Cities4Forests platform, a global alliance of over 95 cities, becoming the fourth Indian city to do so. This will provide technical support and knowledge sharing with cities worldwide, with WRI India as a knowledge partner.   —Salar News