AP Steps Up Mangrove Restoration, Targets 100 Hectares in Krishna District

Mangrove forests are essential not only for environmental protection but also for human survival, Andhra Pradesh Green Executive Chairman Nagababu said, emphasising the need to safeguard natural resources. He announced that the WALTA Act would be implemented more effectively to protect tree cover and prevent environmental degradation.

Participating in a mangrove restoration programme at Sangameswaram in Krishna district alongside Avanigadda MLA Mandla Buddha Prasad, Nagababu launched an initiative to plant three lakh mangrove saplings across 100 hectares. He personally planted saplings to mark the commencement of restoration activities.

Expressing concern over the destruction of mangrove forests, Nagababu said indiscriminate tree felling for firewood had severely damaged valuable ecosystems. He warned that continued exploitation of natural resources would threaten future generations, stressing that conserving mangroves could provide long-term ecological and livelihood benefits.

Referring to Kerala and Karnataka, where tree felling is subject to strict regulations and government permissions, he acknowledged shortcomings in enforcing environmental protection laws in Andhra Pradesh. He assured that the WALTA Act would be strengthened through stricter implementation to prevent unnecessary destruction of trees.

Highlighting the importance of environmental conservation, Nagababu said every tree contributed immeasurably to ecological stability. He expressed concern over rising air pollution in Hyderabad and water pollution in the Godavari districts, urging citizens to recognise their responsibility towards protecting public health and natural ecosystems.

He called for collective efforts to conserve forests, water resources and biodiversity, ensuring a healthier environment for future generations.

Later, Nagababu inaugurated a ₹15-lakh public park at Ashwaraopalem village in Avanigadda mandal. Developed with the efforts of former sarpanch Pandraju Lankamma Prasad, the park provides recreational facilities for children and residents.

He also unveiled a statue of former undivided Andhra Pradesh minister Venkata Krishna Rao and laid foundation stones for three cement concrete roads and one bitumen road under the Palle Panduga programme, involving an estimated expenditure of ₹54.60 lakh.

AP Green Commissioner B.N.N. Murthy, Forest Department Adviser Mallikarjuna Rao, DFO Trimurthula Reddy and other officials attended the restoration programme.