Beach beautification is a cliched term. Though we hear this phrase often, we see little of it on the ground. On second thoughts, this is a good thing. It is better not to beautify our beaches than beautify them the wrong way. For beach beautification that fails to take environmental questions into consideration can do a lot of harm. So, through this initiative, we are seeking to explore approaches to beach beautification that are scientifically sound and also environment-sensitive. Suggestions from residents who live close to Chennai's beaches as well as those who love them a lot and visit them often are welcome. This section in The Hindu Downtown will also put the spotlight on social initiatives targeting people living along the coast. To start with, we are calling attention to a beach beautification initiative in Neelankarai, spearheaded by a medical doctor and supported by residents’ associations in the region. Started a few months ago, the project, which has the support of the Corporation, seems to be going strong. As part of this initiative, a drip irrigation method is used. Water is also supplied by a few residents. “There are 560 plants with tree guards. The plants include thespesia populnea, callophyllum inophyllum and barringtonia. Besides these, we have planted badam, bamboo and date palm. These plants were chosen as they are suited for a beach environment,” says Dr. Nandakumar Sundaram. Another highlight of the initiative is that the creepers growing on the coast will be used for natural landscaping. “These creepers serve a purpose. They prevent soil erosion,” he says. Dr. Sundaram is willing to share his experience with any other group that may be interested in tree plantation on the beach. The objective of this section is to bring together people who care for our beaches. And those who have experiences relating to our beaches that they can share may write to downtownfeedback@thehindu.co.in

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