Media Release
Mangaluru, May 27: In a bid to promote environmental sustainability and awareness, Father Muller Medical College Hospital (FMMCH) has kicked off a 10-day programme in celebration of World Environment Day (WED-24). This year, the theme is ‘Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience’, reflecting the urgent need to address pressing environmental challenges.
The FMMCH along with the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) began this campaign with a health camp at Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited (KIOCL) Panambur along with ceremonial sapling planting on both the KIOCL and Father Muller Charitable Institution (FMCI) campuses. These activities mark the beginning of a series of events aimed at fostering environmental consciousness and action.
Chethan K Shetty, assistant general manager (HR&A) along with Madhuri, HRA received the neem sapling on behalf of FMMCH, also expressing KIOCL’s commitment in environmental protection and afforestation. Dr Kelvin Pais, liaison officer and Angela Stephy from FMCI handed over the sapling.
Fr George Jeevan Sequeira administrator FMMCH along with Dr Uday Kumar medical superintendent and Sr Nancy chief nursing officer planted sapling in the FMCI campus. Fr Nelson Pais (administrator FMHPD) and Fr Ashwin Crasta (assistant administrator FMHMCH) were also present.
The NSS wing of FMMC led by Dr Prasanna Bhat and the hospital infection control led by Dr Thomas Kuruvilla were also instrumental in initiating and planning the event. Dr Maheshwari Singh environmental officer (I/c) KSPCB, RO, Mangaluru was pleased and appreciated this effort.
Health camp conducted at KIOCL was coordinated by Caroline Smitha of the Father Muller School & College of Nursing along with Dr Supriya PS, associate professor, department of general medicine FMMCH. The health camp had departments of general medicine, OBG, ophthalmology, ENT, dermatology along with members of Father Muller central lab and nursing services department. About 425 beneficiaries of KIOCL and general public attended the camp.
Over the next ten days at FMMCH, the programme will feature a variety of activities, including environmental awareness campaigns, competitions for students, and cultural events. Highlights include essay writing, pick-and-speak sessions, placard-making contests, skits, street plays, dances, and songs—all designed to educate and engage participants on this year's environmental theme.
FMMCH has long been committed to environmental stewardship. The campus boasts several initiatives aimed at conserving water and electricity and maintaining a green environment. Daily announcements remind the community to save water, while strategically installed meters monitor usage. Advanced water filters ensure minimal waste and provide clean drinking water, and a central laboratory operates with minimal water use.
Electricity conservation is also a priority, with the institution switching off lights after working hours and using energy-efficient LED bulbs in offices. The campus's lush greenery, filled with trees, further underscores FMMCH's dedication to creating a sustainable and eco-friendly environment.
These ongoing efforts, combined with the special events of WED-24, underscore Father Muller Medical College Hospital's commitment to environmental protection and sustainable practices. As the world faces growing environmental challenges, such initiatives are vital in fostering a culture of conservation and responsibility.