The Ozone Layer describes the protective layer of naturally occurring gas, found about 10 – 50 km above the earth’s surface that protects us from the harmful ultraviolet radiation or UV-B rays of sun. Scientist in the 1970’s discovered that the layer was thinning as a result of the release of CFC’s (chloro-fluoro-carbons), consequently, the Ozone Hole developed.

Since 1995, on 16^th September each year, the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is celebrated. This date has been designated by the United Nations General Assembly.

The theme for this year’s (2010) International Ozone Day is “Ozone layer protection: governance and compliance at their best”. In continuation to this awareness program ‘Run for ozone’ was organized by Forest Department, Udaipur at Fateh-Sagar with Mr. Hemant Gera (District Collector, Udaipur) as the Chair Person. The rally started from Madar Gates (at Fateh-Sagar pal) to the Swaroop-Sagar gate (the other side).

The main motto for the run was to generate awareness among the Udaipurites to protect the ozone layer and to keep the air of the city clean. This can be done by reducing the use of refrigeration systems using CFC (chlorofluorocarbons), by promoting the use of cycle and by making vehicle prohibited areas in and around the city.

Chief Guest of the program was Mrs. Madhu Mehta (District Head), and among other dignitaries who showed the green flag to start the run were Mrs. Sajjan Katara (MLA), Mr. Shailja Deval (DFO Udaipur South Region) and Mr. Dalpat Singh Surana (Chairman Surana foundation).

Alok school (Panchvati), Guru Govind School (Chetak Circle), NCC Army Wing (Girls), and a troop from military were the key participants in the event.

Ozone layer depletion is the issue of key concern in the matter of Global Warming. This initiative of the Forest Department to create vigilance among the citizens is significant in this respect.

Will being a part of such programs make a difference ? Or making it a part of our life ?