Telangana government launched the sixth phase of Haritha Haram program the eco-park at Narsapur, in Medak by state Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao. Forest Minister A. Indrakaran Reddy and Finance Minister T Harish Rao oversaw arrangements along with Forest Department Principal Secretary Shobha.
Haritha Haram is the flagship program of the Telangana government to revive the forest cover in the state from 24 percent to 33 percent by planting tree samples provided by the state.
Under phase six of the program, the Narsapur forest in Medak district is been taken as part of the rejuvenation. 50 lakh saplings will be planted under the present phase.
“The Chief Minister decided to increase the forest cover in state to 33 percent. Under which it has been decided to plant 230 crore saplings across the state. So far we have planted 182 crore saplings and the program will continue at the same pace,” said AIndrakaran Reddy, Forest Minister.
The state will take up avenue plantation in about 1,046 kilometers by planting 3.91 lakh saplings, of which 74,867 saplings will be planted in 653 institutions in the state.2,858 acres of Haritha Vanalu will be covered by 21.4 lakh saplings and two lakh plus plants more than 1,000 acres of farmlands. Under community plantation, 3.29 lakh saplings will be planted in 638 acres, 1.56 saplings on canal bunds, and homestead plantation with 6.39 lakh saplings. A total of 13 varieties of saplings were identified for homestead plantation by the state authorities.
While launching the new phase KCR also addressed timber smugglers who are actively participating in illegal smuggling activities. He said a special cell has been set up under which will report about illegal activities to the Secretary, Forest Department.
“Earlier Smugglers used to have political backing during undivided Andhra Pradesh. The unconcerned attitude of the then governments resulted in the forests in the State vanishing. Now no one can save the smugglers. I have already started gathering information and directed the officials to spare no one,” he said.
The Forest department has been sanctioned 200 new posts and 2,220 new vehicles so they can work effectively.
“In addition to reviving 95,000 acres of forest in Medak district, authorities should take up additional greening under social forestry. Realize that it is we who have lost the green cover and are responsible for the mercury shooting up to 48 degrees Celsius,” he added.
