K Babu, a union worker from Muttada, through his hard work and determination, has managed to turn an arid stretch of road into a well-groomed roadside garden at the Paruthippara Junction over the last 6 years.
The 54-year-old Union Worker from Thiruvananthapuram diligently carries a bucket of water from a pipe connection in the vicinity every single morning to water the blooming flowers. On days that he travels out of town for work, he returns by night to monitor the plant’s’ growth.
But the path to making this dry patch a green stretch has not been easy for Babu.
Speaking to the Deccan Chronicle, he said, “I got this idea and started the project with two plants around six years ago when the road widening happened.”
He had to walk long distances to fetch water since the vicinity had no pipe water connection. This man shelled out money from his own pocket to get the connection. While he was mocked by many for his craze to go the extra mile transform the space, some people, who were inspired by his vision, encouraged him.
A patron donated Babu a pair of shears ( a cutting instrument for gardening), freeing him from the pain of trimming plants with his knife.
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Babu not only fertilises the plants but also replants the area when required. He donates the seedlings to individuals and nurseries in the vicinity, without charging a penny. He calls it his way of service to society. Only when persuaded time and again, does he agrees to have a cup of tea as a tip for taking care of the garden.
His efforts have made him a local green hero. He was invited by a school in the vicinity to inaugurate their “Save the Environment” project, where he planted saplings alongside the School Principal.
“I have a small garden at home also. It is such a beautiful feeling to see the plants grow and flowers bloom,” he told the publication.
Everyday green heroes like Babu prove that age or resources are never a bar when you are determined truly to bring about change. We salute him!
Feature Image Credit: Deccan Chronicle