There’ll be more green lessons in school syllabus: Bengal CM

Kolkata: Chief minister Suvendu Adhikari on Friday said the state govt would work on expanding environment-related content in school curricula to sensitise students about ecological issues from an early age.

“We will evaluate environment and tree plantation-related subjects in the school syllabus so that we can prepare students from an early stage.,” the CM said while launching the year-long tree plantation drive, ‘Ékti Gaach Mayer Naame’ (A Tree in Mother’s Name), under which 1.1 crore saplings will be planted across the state over the next year.

Expressing concern over the rapid spread of concrete structures in Kolkata and adjoining urban areas, Adhikari alleged that norms mandating green spaces and tree plantation in construction projects were not properly implemented. The CM said all housing projects, MSME units, govt infrastructure projects, and developments along state and national highways should reserve at least one-third of their area for greenery and tree plantation.

“If you see the KMDA area from the sky, you will see a jungle of concrete. Those who approve these projects have standing instructions that one-third plantation and greenery is mandatory, but the rule is not being followed. We will look into this issue,” he said.

Adhikari also proposed displaying environmental indicators, including SO2 levels and other pollution indices, through electronic display boards at important public locations.

Urging citizens to participate in environmental conservation, the CM called for the formation of eco clubs and said the environment department would provide financial assistance to schools for developing such initiatives.

The CM added that the Swachha App, currently in operation in select civic areas, should be expanded to all municipal corporations and urban local bodies. He also called for cleanliness and beautification drives at major religious destinations as well as along the state’s beaches.