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Key Points

The Greater Chennai Corporation is launching an ambitious green initiative to plant 100,000 native saplings across the city's parks and public spaces. This comprehensive project aims to combat rising temperatures and enhance urban biodiversity through strategic tree plantation. The initiative includes using indigenous species like neermaruthu and poovarasu, with a focus on sustainable growth through advanced irrigation techniques. By investing over Rs 22 crore in park renovations and tree planting, Chennai is setting a remarkable example of urban environmental regeneration.

Key Points: Chennai Green Drive Launches 100,000 Native Tree Plantation

  • Native saplings will transform urban green spaces across Chennai
  • Drip irrigation system ensures sustainable tree growth
  • Multiple parks set for comprehensive renovation
  • Rs 22.12 crore investment in urban environmental upgrade
2 min read

Chennai to plant one lakh native saplings in parks, playgrounds

Greater Chennai Corporation unveils massive urban forestry project to combat heat and boost biodiversity across parks and public spaces

"We are seeking experienced nursery operators to supply quality native saplings - Parks and Playfields Department Official"

Chennai, June 4

In a major green initiative to combat rising temperatures and enhance urban biodiversity, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) in Tamil Nadu has announced plans to plant one lakh native saplings across parks, playgrounds, and burial grounds maintained by the civic body.

The initiative, set to commence on June 5 to mark World Environment Day, is aimed at expanding green cover and mitigating the effects of heatwaves in the city.

The local body has already floated a tender worth Rs 1.83 crore for the annual supply of native saplings. A senior official from the Parks and Playfields Department said, “We are seeking experienced nursery operators to supply quality native saplings. Although the planting process will be carried out in phases, our long-term goal is to ensure these saplings grow into fully matured trees with proper care and irrigation.”

The saplings will be planted using drip irrigation systems to ensure a consistent water supply and healthy growth. Indigenous species such as neermaruthu (Terminalia arjuna), poovarasu (Thespesia populnea), sarakondai (Cassia fistula), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), and other native varieties have been selected for the drive.

Simultaneously, the GCC has floated multiple tenders worth Rs 22.12 crore to renovate and upgrade parks and playgrounds across various city zones. These tenders, divided into several packages, follow a series of complaints received from local residents and ward councillors regarding the poor condition and lack of maintenance of many recreational spaces.

“As part of our mission to create green, inclusive spaces, these tenders will address long-standing civic demands and restore vital open areas to the public,” said a corporation official involved in the planning.

In a notable move, Nageshwara Rao Park in Mylapore -- one of the city’s most iconic parks -- has been earmarked for a comprehensive renovation under the Namakku Naame scheme. A budget of Rs ₹11.64 crore has been allocated for the park’s redevelopment, which will include landscaping, pathway restoration, children’s play areas, and eco-friendly amenities.

The twin initiatives -- to plant native trees and upgrade parks -- reflect GCC’s commitment to improving urban environmental quality and promoting sustainable urban living. Civic officials said that regular monitoring and community participation will be encouraged to ensure the success and longevity of the green initiative.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
Finally some good news! Chennai desperately needs more green cover with these unbearable summers. Hope they maintain these saplings properly unlike previous drives where most dried up. The choice of native species is excellent 🌿 #GreenChennai
R
Rajesh M.
₹1.83 crore for saplings and ₹22 crore for park renovation? Hope there's proper transparency in spending. We've seen many such projects where money disappears but results don't show. GCC should upload monthly progress reports online.
S
Saranya V.
As a resident near Nageshwara Rao Park, I'm thrilled about the renovation! But please don't just make it fancy - we need proper shade trees, clean toilets, and security. The current park becomes unusable after 7pm due to anti-social elements.
A
Arjun P.
Good initiative but why only parks and playgrounds? Our streets need trees too! The concrete jungle is making Chennai unlivable. GCC should mandate tree planting along all roads and enforce it strictly.
M
Meena S.
Planting is just step one. Maintenance is key! Remember the 2017 tree planting drive? Most saplings died within months. Hope they involve local RWAs and schools in adoption programs. Each tree should have a caretaker.
K
Karthik R.
Excellent move choosing native species! Neermaruthu and jamun trees will not just provide shade but also support local birds and biodiversity. More cities should follow Chennai's example. When will Bengaluru wake up? 😅

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