The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has unveiled ambitious plans to plant one lakh native saplings across its extensive network of parks, playgrounds, and burial grounds.
This major endeavour, set to commence on World Environment Day, June 5, is designed to bolster the city’s green cover, mitigate the intensifying effects of urban heatwaves, and enhance vital urban biodiversity. The civic body’s commitment underscores a strategic shift towards creating more resilient, eco-friendly, and liveable urban spaces, directly addressing the challenges of climate change and promoting a healthier environment for all its citizens. The GCC has already initiated the tender process, floating a bid worth ₹1.83 crore for the annual supply of high-quality native saplings. A senior official from the Parks and Playfields Department emphasized the civic body’s focus on securing “experienced nursery operators to supply quality native saplings.” While the planting process will be executed in a phased manner, the long-term vision is clear: to ensure these saplings mature into robust trees through diligent care and consistent irrigation. This thoughtful approach, including the planned use of drip irrigation systems, highlights a commitment to the longevity and success of the greening efforts, ensuring consistent water supply and optimal growth conditions for indigenous species.
The selection of indigenous species is a critical aspect of this initiative, reflecting a deep understanding of local ecology and the benefits of native flora. Varieties such as neermaruthu (Terminalia arjuna), poovarasu (Thespesia populnea), sarakondai (Cassia fistula), and Jamun (Syzygium cumini) have been chosen for their adaptability to Chennai’s climate, their ability to support local ecosystems, and their role in providing shade and improving air quality. This focus on native plants enhances biodiversity and supports the natural habitat for local fauna, contributing to a more balanced and sustainable urban ecosystem. Parallel to the extensive tree-planting drive, the GCC has also floated multiple tenders amounting to a substantial ₹22.12 crore for the comprehensive renovation and upgrade of parks and playgrounds across various city zones. These tenders, structured into several packages, come in direct response to a surge in complaints from local residents and ward councillors regarding the deteriorating condition and inadequate maintenance of many recreational spaces. A corporation official involved in the planning affirmed that these investments are part of a broader mission “to create green, inclusive spaces,” aimed at addressing long-standing civic demands and restoring vital open areas for public use.
A notable beneficiary of this urban renewal push is Nageshwara Rao Park in Mylapore, one of Chennai’s most iconic and beloved green spaces. This park has been specifically earmarked for a comprehensive renovation under the Namakku Naame scheme, signifying a community-led development approach. A significant budget of ₹11.64 crore has been allocated for its redevelopment, which will encompass extensive landscaping, restoration of pathways, creation of modern children’s play areas, and the integration of various eco-friendly amenities. This focus on inclusive and accessible design ensures that these revitalised spaces cater to individuals of all ages and abilities, promoting gender-neutral access to recreational facilities.
These twin initiatives—the mass planting of native trees and the extensive upgrade of urban parks—collectively underscore the GCC’s unwavering commitment to improving Chennai’s urban environmental quality and actively promoting sustainable urban living. Civic officials have highlighted the importance of regular monitoring and actively encouraging community participation to ensure the enduring success and longevity of these green ventures. By empowering local residents to take ownership and participate in the upkeep of these renewed spaces, Chennai is building a model for truly eco-friendly, sustainable, and equitable cities, where green infrastructure is seamlessly integrated into the fabric of daily life.
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