Urban Forests – Pawan Kalyan Opens 18 Green Projects Across Andhra Pradesh
Urban Forests –Deputy Chief Minister and Forest and Environment Minister Pawan Kalyan on Wednesday virtually inaugurated 18 urban forests, eco-parks and community eco-tourism projects developed in different parts of Andhra Pradesh. The projects are intended to improve green cover, protect biodiversity and create nature-based public spaces in rapidly growing urban areas.
The inauguration was held from Pawan Kalyan’s camp office in Mangalagiri. Addressing officials and participants through video conference, he said development must move forward without damaging the natural environment. He added that a country’s legacy should be measured not only by buildings and infrastructure, but also by the ecosystems it safeguards.
Urban forests planned as green spaces for expanding cities
Pawan Kalyan said the newly developed Nagara Vanalu, or urban forests, would help cities retain ecological balance as construction activity and population growth continue to increase pressure on available land.
He described the projects as important green spaces within urban and semi-urban regions, where tree cover can support cleaner air, lower local temperatures and provide habitats for birds and other wildlife. The minister said these areas could serve as “green lungs” in cities that are increasingly surrounded by concrete development.
The urban forest programme is part of a wider effort to bring nature closer to residential areas while encouraging people to use and value public green spaces.
Rs 36 crore invested in forests, parks and eco-tourism
The 18 projects were completed with a combined investment of Rs 36 crore. Funding was drawn from the Union government’s Nagara Vana Yojana and state-level resources.
Officials said each urban forest covers about 50 hectares and has been developed at an estimated cost of Rs 2 crore. The sites include plantation zones, walking areas, landscaped spaces and facilities designed to support public access while limiting damage to natural habitats.
The projects also include eco-parks and community-oriented eco-tourism facilities. These initiatives are expected to create opportunities for local participation in conservation activities and nature-based tourism.
Traditional themes added to biodiversity-focused projects
Several of the newly developed sites include Nakshatra Vanalu and Rashi Vanalu, which have been designed around traditional ecological and cultural themes. Nakshatra Vanalu are star-themed gardens, while Rashi Vanalu are based on zodiac signs.
The themed gardens have been planned to combine environmental awareness with cultural heritage. By linking native plants and trees with familiar traditional concepts, officials hope the projects will encourage visitors to learn more about local biodiversity and conservation practices.
The state government has also created dedicated Red Sanders conservation parks at Kodur and Kailasagiri. Red Sanders is a valuable and protected tree species associated with the southern region of Andhra Pradesh, and the parks are expected to support awareness and conservation efforts related to the species.
Focus on conservation alongside public participation
The Deputy Chief Minister said environmental protection should be treated as an essential part of long-term development planning. He noted that forests, water bodies and wildlife habitats need continued protection as towns and cities expand.
The new projects are expected to offer residents access to recreational green areas while also supporting plantation drives, wildlife protection and environmental education. Community involvement will be important in maintaining the sites and ensuring that they continue to serve their intended purpose.
The inauguration marks another step in Andhra Pradesh’s efforts to expand urban greenery and promote conservation through public infrastructure. Authorities are expected to monitor the projects and work with local communities to preserve the plantations, parks and eco-tourism facilities in the years ahead.