Home / Environment / Andhra Pradesh Plants 55 Lakh Palmyra Seeds for Coastal Defense
Andhra Pradesh Plants 55 Lakh Palmyra Seeds for Coastal Defense
25 Aug
Summary
- Over 5.5 million palmyra seeds to be planted on 5,499 hectares.
- Palmyra trees chosen for salinity tolerance and deep root systems.
- Project aims to create a natural windbreak and check coastal erosion.
The Forest Department in Andhra Pradesh has initiated a significant palmyra seed collection and plantation effort. This drive is a key component of the government's Great Green Wall of Andhra Pradesh project, designed to construct a natural defense along the state's coast.
The initiative aims to establish palmyra groves on 5,499 hectares, targeting the plantation of approximately 5.5 million seeds. This strategy forms the second tier of a three-tier plan, with mangrove forests as the first. Palmyra was selected for its resilience to salinity, strong winds, and sandy soils, with its deep roots helping to prevent coastal erosion.
To date, 1.3 million seeds have been collected, and over 165,000 have been planted with the support of various departments, students, and local communities. The palmyra groves are expected to serve as a crucial windbreak against severe weather events and contribute to coastal biodiversity by providing habitats.
The Great Green Wall initiative aligns with the state's broader goal of achieving 50 percent green cover, restoring ecosystems, and conserving natural resources for a healthier future.
