The central government has initiated the development of city forests in 2023 to bring the beauty of nature and bring forests closer to the people. In this order, the Center has sanctioned funds for the development of city forests in cities and urban areas in the state.
Deputy Chief Minister, Forest, Environment and Science and Technology Minister Pawan Kalyan said that Rs.15.4 crores have been released as the first installment for the development of these newly under the jurisdiction of 11 Municipal Corporations and Municipalities in the state.
With these funds, city forests will be developed in Gargeyapuram, Kadapa, Velagada in Nellimarla, Chittoor Dairy, Kathirikonda, Kailasagiri, Prakasa Raopalem in Tadepalligudem, Srikrishnadevaraya Kota Ecopark in Penukonda, Batrepalli Waterfalls Ecopark in Kadiri, Kashibugga in Palasa and Eastern Ghat in Visakha Pawan Kalyan explained. On this occasion, he discussed with the forest department officials.
Pawan Kalyan inquired about the works related to city forests. Officials told him that at present the development work of 50 city forests is progressing rapidly in AP. They explained that the works of 30 city forests will be completed in the next 100 days.
Pawan said that by making good use of the funds coming from the Centre, there are opportunities to increase greenery in the state. Andhra Pradesh should have about 50 percent greenery. As a part of this, officials were advised to focus on the development of city forests.
Pawan Kalyan has called upon the people to participate in the Vanamahotsava to be organized across the state on the 30th of this month and make it a success. The officials were advised to increase the participation of youth in this.
He said that the planting program should be a celebration. Pawan Kalyan directed the officials to make all educational institutions, industries and other organizations participate in this along with the government departments.