District Forest Officer (Tirupati) P. Vivek on Wednesday emphasised on the need to plant native varieties to ensure a harmonious development of greenery in the district. At the launch of Vanamahotsavam, annual mass plantation drive, at the Divyaramam Eco Park near Kapilatheertham, the DFO unveiled an ambitious plan to plant five lakh native varieties.
Mr. Vivek said, “Native varieties have protected our soil, water, and life for centuries. Local communities, volunteers and nature lovers must take responsibility for safeguarding these trees”.
Describing the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve as a harmonious blend of spirituality and nature, Mr. Vivek highlighted the forest department’s initiatives like environmental conservation, biodiversity protection, restoration and awareness. “Native plants such as terminalia bellirica (Tani), albizia amara (usiri), pterocarpus marsupium (red sandalwood), syzygium cumini (neredu) are being planted during forest expansion drives, as they have been a natural part of the region’s ecosystem for centuries and play a vital role in the ecological balance”, he said.
The DFO pointed out that invasive foreign species like prosopis juliflora and lantana camara were being eradicated and controlled in view of their harmful impact on native biodiversity.
The DFO urged the public to take part in the drive and plant their favourite native sapling on important days and events. Responding to the DFO’s call, senior journalist and nature enthusiast P. Ramachandra Reddy planted a Kadamba plant marking his 65th birthday. Trekkers, nature lovers and morning walkers took part in the drive in large numbers.
Published – May 28, 2025 07:37 pm IST
