11 urban forests to be developed with Central funds, says Dy CM

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan announced that the Central government has approved the development of urban forests in cities across the State. The Central Environment and Forest Department has sanctioned an initial fund of Rs 15.4 crore for the creation of new city forests under the jurisdiction of 11 Municipal Corporations and Municipalities.
The Deputy Chief Minister outlined that these Central funds would support the development of urban forests in the following locations: Gargeyapuram in Kurnool, Kadapa in Kadapa district, Velagada, Nellimarla, Chittoor Dairy in Chittoor, Kaligiri Konda in Chittoor, Kailasagiri in Srikalahasti, Prakasaraopalem in Tadepalligudem, Srikrishnadevaraya Kota Eco Park in Penukonda, Batrepalli Waterfalls Eco Park in Kadiri, Kashibugga in Palasa, and the Eastern Ghat Biodiversity Center in Visakhapatnam.
In a meeting with state forest department officials, the Deputy Chief Minister reviewed the progress of urban forest projects. Officials informed him that the development of 50 urban forests across the state is proceeding swiftly, with 30 of them expected to be completed within the next 100 days. The Deputy Chief Minister emphasised the importance of maximising the use of central funds to enhance greenery across the state.
He highlighted the goal of achieving 50 per cent greenery in the state and stressed the need for focused efforts on the development of urban forests.
The Deputy Chief Minister also confirmed that Vana Mahotsavam would be celebrated statewide on August 30, urging officials to ensure its success. He called for active participation from the public, especially the youth, and instructed officials to turn the sapling plantation programme into a celebratory event across all villages, towns, and cities. He further directed that all government departments, educational institutions, universities, industries, paper mills, and spiritual organisations should be involved in this initiative.