Andhra Pradesh advances ‘Great Green Wall’ for coastal resilience

The Andhra Pradesh government has launched a large-scale coastal greening initiative called the “Great Green Wall” to strengthen natural defenses along its shoreline on the Bay of Bengal. The programme builds a continuous bio-shield through mangrove restoration, shelterbelt plantations, dune stabilization, and community forestry. As a result, authorities aim to reduce damage from cyclones, storm surges, and coastal erosion.

Officials say the project blends ecological restoration with scientific planning and coordinated administration. For instance, the Forest Department uses satellite mapping, field assessments, and legal safeguards for mangrove zones to help plantations grow into effective natural barriers. Therefore, the initiative supports long-term climate resilience.

The government will develop the green belt across vulnerable coastal stretches, especially in northern districts such as Visakhapatnam. These areas often face severe weather and shifting shorelines. To address this, teams are reviving degraded mangroves, reinforcing sand dunes, and creating green corridors along canals and roads.

Meanwhile, environmental experts stress the scientific foundation behind the plan. Mangroves reduce wave energy and act as storm buffers; however, they survive only under suitable tidal flow and salinity. Hence, planners give equal importance to hydrological design and plantation work.

The government will roll out the programme in phases. First, it will focus on coastal plantations and mangrove rehabilitation. Next, it will expand into agroforestry and community forestry that support local livelihoods. At the same time, officials are conducting satellite surveys to map unrecorded mangrove areas, while inter-departmental teams track progress on the ground.

The State expects funding from both State and Central schemes linked to coastal conservation and disaster management. In places facing acute erosion, authorities may add limited structural measures to support ecological efforts.

Officials emphasize that community participation and regular maintenance will determine the project’s long-term success. If agencies maintain scientific oversight and local communities stay involved, the programme can significantly strengthen coastal resilience across the State.