Is Chennai Ready to Plant One Lakh Native Saplings?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Chennai's Greater Chennai Corporation embarks on a transformative green initiative by planting one lakh native saplings. This project aims to combat rising temperatures and enhance urban biodiversity, marking a significant step towards sustainable urban living.
Key Takeaways
- Chennai's Greater Chennai Corporation plans to plant one lakh native saplings.
- The initiative aims to reduce heatwaves and increase biodiversity.
- Drip irrigation will be used for consistent watering.
- Indigenous species selected for planting include neermaruthu and Jamun.
- Further investments are being made to renovate parks and playgrounds.
Chennai, June 4 (NationPress) In an ambitious initiative to tackle soaring temperatures and boost urban biodiversity, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) in Tamil Nadu has unveiled plans to plant one lakh native saplings throughout parks, playgrounds, and burial grounds managed by the civic authority.
Set to launch on June 5 in celebration of World Environment Day, this project aims to increase green spaces and reduce the impact of heatwaves in the metropolitan area.
The local government has issued a tender worth Rs 1.83 crore for the annual procurement of these native saplings. A senior official from the Parks and Playfields Department stated, “We are looking for seasoned nursery operators to provide quality native saplings. Although the planting will occur in stages, our ultimate aim is to see these saplings develop into fully grown trees with adequate care and irrigation.”
The saplings will be planted using drip irrigation systems to maintain a steady water supply and support healthy growth. Selected indigenous species include neermaruthu (Terminalia arjuna), poovarasu (Thespesia populnea), sarakondai (Cassia fistula), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), and various other native types.
In parallel, the GCC has launched several tenders worth Rs 22.12 crore to renovate and improve parks and playgrounds across different city zones. These tenders are a response to numerous complaints from local residents and ward councillors about the poor state and lack of upkeep of many recreational areas.
“Our mission is to create green, inclusive spaces; these tenders will fulfill long-standing civic requests and revive essential open areas for community use,” remarked a corporation official involved in the initiative.
Notably, Nageshwara Rao Park in Mylapore, one of the city’s most cherished parks, has been selected for a complete renovation under the Namakku Naame scheme. A budget of Rs 11.64 crore has been designated for the park’s redevelopment, which will encompass landscaping, pathway restoration, children’s play areas, and eco-friendly features.
The dual initiatives—planting native trees and enhancing parks—demonstrate the GCC’s dedication to improving urban environmental quality and fostering sustainable urban living. Civic officials emphasized that ongoing monitoring and community involvement will be vital to ensure the success and sustainability of this green initiative.
Point of View
The Greater Chennai Corporation’s initiative reflects a growing trend across urban centers to prioritize sustainable practices. As cities face climate challenges, projects like this serve as vital steps towards enhancing urban ecosystems and improving residents' quality of life. The commitment to community engagement and long-term maintenance is particularly noteworthy, ensuring that the benefits of such initiatives are sustained over time.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of planting one lakh native saplings?
The primary goal is to combat rising temperatures and enhance urban biodiversity by expanding green cover in Chennai.
When will the planting initiative begin?
The planting initiative is set to commence on June 5, coinciding with World Environment Day.
What types of trees will be planted?
The initiative will focus on planting indigenous species such as neermaruthu, poovarasu, sarakondai, and Jamun.
How will the saplings be maintained?
The saplings will be planted using drip irrigation systems to ensure consistent water supply and healthy growth.
What other improvements are planned for Chennai's parks?
The GCC has also initiated tenders worth Rs 22.12 crore to renovate and upgrade various parks and playgrounds across the city.
