Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) has launched an ambitious plantation drive aiming to plant 4.5 crore saplings in 2025-26. Starting with key locations like Padamatikancha Reserve Forest and Sanjeevaiah Park, the initiative seeks to bolster Hyderabad’s green cover, aligning with the city’s vision to become a global exemplar of sustainable urban living.
Building on the momentum of previous years, HMDA’s urban forest director, K. Srinivas, noted substantial progress with two lakh saplings planted in 2023-24 and 3.5 lakh in 2024-25. This year’s target forms part of a broader ecological strategy encompassing a variety of species that support biodiversity and enhance urban ecosystems. The drive focuses on planting a mix of fruit-bearing trees such as Neredu, Chintha, and Seemachintha, alongside timber species including Jitregi and Yerra Chandanam, and native forest species like Pusugu and Veduru. This diversified approach reflects a conscious effort to support wildlife habitats, promote carbon sequestration, and enrich the urban environment.
HMDA’s plan also includes extensive afforestation along national and state highways, as well as green medians on busy roads, signalling a commitment to integrate greenery into infrastructure development. Such measures not only improve air quality and reduce urban heat islands but also foster equitable access to natural spaces for residents across Hyderabad. The mega plantation drive aligns with global imperatives for zero net carbon cities and sustainable development, reflecting Hyderabad’s pursuit of eco-friendly growth balanced with urbanisation pressures. By expanding green cover, the city aims to mitigate pollution, enhance resilience against climate change, and promote a healthier environment for all citizens, irrespective of gender or socioeconomic status.
Yet, the scale of planting 4.5 crore saplings within a year presents challenges, including ensuring sapling survival, sustained maintenance, and effective community engagement. HMDA’s ongoing efforts must be matched with public participation and transparent monitoring to realise long-term ecological benefits. Experts view this initiative as a vital step towards urban sustainability, but caution that success depends on integrated planning, robust funding, and adaptive management. Collaboration between government bodies, civil society, and residents will be crucial to embedding green infrastructure into Hyderabad’s urban fabric.
In an era where cities worldwide are grappling with environmental degradation, Hyderabad’s mega plantation drive exemplifies a forward-thinking commitment to sustainability. While ambitious, the programme embodies the city’s aspiration to set benchmarks in urban greening and climate action.
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