Lively response to phone-in programme on environment

By Our Special Correspondent

BANGALORE JUNE 4. Thousands of calls came in on Sunday when Siticable, the largest cable TV provider in Bangalore, aired a live "phone-in" programme on environment.

The film-maker-cum-environmentalist, Mr. Suresh Heblikar, and the Regional Manager of The Hindu, Capt. V.V.K.Mani, responded to the queries and comments from TV viewers. The questions phoned-in ranged from waste management to rainwater harvesting and the segregation of household garbage. The programme was telecast from 1.30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

While referring to pollution caused by the industries around the City, many viewers also questioned the Government's role and that of the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board. There were queries about granite quarrying in ecologically-fragile areas, some of which were close to Bangalore, and the political connections of the "granite lobby." There were calls about area- specific complaints from the City and suburbs.

On the issue of automobile emissions, the viewers were told and they agreed that their own vehicles should be checked and kept in an "emission-controlled" state. There were remarks about what was being done in the West. Examples such as "No Car Days" and using bicycles for inner-city transport to avoid congestion and parking problems were cited.

Some viewers asked about Sunday morning's vintage car rally and suggested that instead bicycle rallies should be held. They were informed that these would also be organised involving school and college students. Viewers were informed about the beginning made on pollution-free transport with the launch of an electric car manufactured by a Bangalore-based company.

There was a discussion with viewers on the pollution of lakes and other water bodies due to the indiscriminate dumping of plastic containers and the practice of immersing Ganesha idols in Ulsoor Lake and other lakes in the City. Since the idols were coated with paint, there was serious danger of the lead content entering the water.

Most viewers felt that care for one's environment had to begin at an early age, and that parents and teachers were responsible for ensuring this. A simple habit such as throwing chocolate wrappers into dustbins instead of on the road could make a large difference.

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Section  : Southern States
Previous : Twelve hours of trauma
Next     : CM announces steps to decongest, beautify City