Karnataka-Born Environmentalist Kirtida Mekani Dies at 66 in Singapore

Kirtida Mekani, an India-born environmental leader who made Singapore her home, passed away on January 19 at the age of 66 after a sudden heart attack. Widely known as the “Tree Lady,” she spent more than three decades working quietly but powerfully for nature conservation, community well-being and cultural growth. Her work touched schools, gardens, art spaces and green landscapes across Singapore.

Early Life and Love for Nature

Kirtida Mekani grew up on a family farm in Karnataka, India. As a child, she learned how nature works through simple experiences, such as seeing waste turn into rich soil through composting. These early lessons shaped her deep respect for the environment and taught her that nature can guide people toward a better and more balanced way of living.

Journey to Singapore

In 1990, Kirtida moved to Singapore with her husband, Bharat Mekani. She was deeply impressed by the greenery she saw while travelling from the airport. That first impression stayed with her and inspired her to work for a greener and more sustainable Singapore.

Leading Environmental Awareness

In 1993, Kirtida became the first executive director of the Singapore Environment Council. During her time there, she helped create more than 50 programmes focused on environmental protection and education. These programmes reached students, companies and local communities, encouraging people to care for nature in their daily lives.

The Famous Plant-A-Tree Programme

One of her greatest achievements was the Plant-A-Tree Programme, started in 2007 with the National Parks Board. At first, many people doubted whether citizens would take part. Kirtida believed otherwise. Over the years, the programme has led to the planting of more than 76,000 trees, introduced many native species and involved thousands of volunteers. It remains a major people-led green movement in Singapore.

Supporting Community Gardens

Kirtida also played an important role in the Community in Bloom programme. As an ambassador, she supported the growth of community gardens across the country. Today, thousands of gardens are cared for by tens of thousands of volunteers, helping people connect with nature and with each other.

Work in Education and Innovation

She served as a trustee of the United World College of South East Asia Foundation, where she supported rainforest restoration projects led by students. In 2016, she co-founded the Biomimicry Singapore Network, bringing together experts to learn from nature and use its ideas for sustainable innovation.

Contribution to Arts and Culture

Apart from environmental work, Kirtida was deeply involved in the arts. She served on the boards of LASALLE College of the Arts and the Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society. As a skilled ceramic artist, she also displayed her own artwork, showing how creativity and care for nature can go hand in hand.

Global Conservation Efforts

Kirtida worked with several global conservation groups. She served on the board of WWF Singapore and supported plant and marine conservation projects, including coral restoration around Kusu Island. Her efforts helped protect both land and sea ecosystems.

Awards and Recognition to Kirtida Mekani

Her lifelong dedication earned her Singapore’s President’s Award for the Environment in 2015. In 2024, she was inducted into the Singapore Women’s Hall of Fame as a Champion of the Environment, honouring her lasting impact on society.

Remembering Kirtida Mekani

Those who knew her remember Kirtida Mekani as a kind, humble and deeply caring person. Her husband, Bharat Mekani, described her as someone who lived with purpose and compassion. Though she is no longer with us, her work continues to grow through the trees planted, gardens nurtured and lives inspired by her vision.

Legacy of Kirtida Mekani

Kirtida Mekani’s life shows how one person, guided by love for nature and community, can create meaningful change. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations to live sustainably and care for the world around them.