Erode: Over 1,500 runners participated in a marathon organised jointly by the Chennimalai marathon committee and the We the Leaders organisation in Chennimalai in Erode district on Sunday.The marathon which aimed at raising awareness about environmental protection, featured two distinct race categories based on age: a 7km run for both men and women above 13 years of age, and a 3.5km run for children below 13 years of age. All participants were awarded certificates and medals upon completing the race.To activate tree planting awareness, organisers distributed free saplings to every participant. Explaining the initiative, the event organisers highlighted that rising temperatures are heavily driven by tree felling for road expansion and infrastructure projects. “The marathon was conducted to encourage afforestation, with saplings gifted to ensure concrete steps towards environmental conservation,” said an organiser.
