Luxettipet targets 80,000 saplings under Vana Mahotsavam

Metro India News | LUXETTIPET

With monsoon showers improving conditions for plantation, the Luxettipet Municipality has launched preparations for this year's Vana Mahotsavam, setting a target of planting 80,000 saplings across the town. The plantation drive, which was delayed due to inadequate rainfall, will now be taken up on a large scale with public participation. According to municipal authorities, around 50,000 saplings will be distributed to households, while another 10,000 will be planted at identified public locations. Nearly 20,000 saplings are currently ready for planting at the municipal nursery. Municipal Environmental Engineer Katla Rakesh said an additional 60,000 saplings will be supplied by the District Forest Department to help achieve the plantation target.

The drive will cover several educational institutions and public spaces, including Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Gurukul School and College, Government Model Degree College, Social Welfare Gurukul School, Kasturba Gandhi School, Shishu Mandir School, Brhat Pattana Prakruthi Vanam, the MPDO office premises, IB Prakruthi Vanam and other identified locations. The municipal nursery currently has a wide variety of saplings, including guava, lemon, neem, pomegranate, kanuga, oleander, gulmohar, tecoma and jasmine for distribution and plantation.

Officials have also issued guidelines to improve the survival rate of the saplings. Residents have been advised to dig pits according to the size of the sapling bag, fill them with fertile soil mixed with farmyard manure and DAP, water the pits before planting, and apply neem cake to prevent pest attacks. Tree guards should be installed to protect saplings from grazing animals, while plantations should be avoided beneath power lines or under large trees. Officials appealed to citizens to actively participate in the drive and ensure proper care of the planted saplings for long-term environmental benefits.

"We are committed to achieving the plantation target. Every sapling planted will be properly protected and monitored." 

Vijay Kumar Municipal Commissioner, Luxettipet

"Public participation is essential for the success of Vana Mahotsavam. I urge every citizen to plant and protect at least one sapling."

Dontha Anjali Chairperson, Luxettipet Municipality