The Haritahaaram mass plantation programme in the Palamuru region has come to a halt across five districts. Despite the monsoon season, no district administration has reviewed the green plantation initiative, raising concerns about the government’s commitment to environmental conservation.
The Haritahaaram programme was started by the previous government to increase green cover. Funds were allocated to establish nurseries in every village for mass planting efforts. Historically, during the monsoons, Mahabubnagar’s district administration prioritized plantation programmes, but this year no reviews have been conducted in Mahabubnagar, Gadwal, Wanaparthy, Narayanpet, or Nagarkurnool.
For nine years, the Palamuru region aimed to plant 2-3 crore plants annually to become a green zone. The goal was to cover 33% of the land with forest cover to align with the National Forest Policy. The previous government increased Telangana’s green cover from 18.93% to 24.06% by 2023 under the Haritahaaram programme.
Green plantation is essential for environmental protection, reducing greenhouse gases, and improving rainfall. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas, and help mitigate climate change. Increased green cover also enhances rainfall, crucial for agriculture and water resources in the region.
Former Minister Singireddy Niranjan Reddy criticized the current government for not prioritizing tree planting to protect the environment, improve rainfall, and benefit agriculture. The lack of action on the Haritahaaram programme puts years of progress in improving green cover at risk without coordinated efforts and a clear vision from the administration.
In summary, the Haritahaaram mass plantation programme in the Palamuru region has stalled, raising concerns about the government’s commitment to environmental conservation and the region’s agricultural benefits.
