Visakhapatnam Forest Circle prepares 50 lakh seed balls for monsoon dispersal
The Visakhapatnam Forest Circle has prepared 50 lakh seed balls for dispersal across forests and hill regions in six districts as part of a green restoration programme, Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) I.K.V. Raju said.
The seed balls were prepared by Vanasamrakshana Samithis (Forest Protection Committees), which are community groups involved in forest protection and regeneration. They contain seeds of native tree species such as tamarind, soapnut, jamun, peepal, banyan and pongamia. Mr. Raju said the seed balls will be dispersed over forest and hill areas using drones after the monsoon begins.
He said the department has planned plantation over 1,000 hectares in North Andhra districts during the rainy season. About 1.5 crore saplings, including casuarina, eucalyptus, teak, and fruit and flowering species, have been raised in nurseries for distribution to farmers and for plantation in colonies.
Farmers and the public have been advised to collect saplings from nearby nurseries. Mr. Raju said there is strong demand for casuarina and eucalyptus plants.
As part of coastal protection measures, mangrove and greenbelt plantations are being developed under the “Great Green Wall” initiative along the Ichchapuram–Payakaraopeta coastal stretch to act as a natural barrier against cyclones by reducing wind speed, storm surge, and coastal erosion. Last year, five lakh palm seeds were planted over 100 hectares, and another five lakh are planned this year. Casuarina plantations along the coast are also being expanded.
The centrally funded “Great Green Wall” project will continue until 2030, with an annual allocation of ₹50–60 lakh. Farmers will be encouraged to take up casuarina and cashew plantations in coastal areas, he said.
Mr. Raju said a ₹50 lakh fence is being constructed along the Kambalakonda–PM Palem stretch of the national highway to regulate wildlife movement and prevent animals from crossing onto the road.
He said proposals have been submitted to the Centre seeking diversion of about three hectares of forest land for road widening between Adavivaram and Neelakundili Junction. He added that compensatory plantation will be taken up if alternative land is provided.
On eco-tourism, Mr. Raju said basic facilities have been developed at Kambalakonda for visitors and trekkers. Further development works are planned in coordination with VMRDA. He added that another project is being planned at Sagarnagar Beach to develop visitor amenities and walking tracks.