Pawan Kalyan Unveils 18 Urban Forests, Backs Nature-Led Growth

In a major push towards sustainable urban development, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Forests & Environment Minister Pawan Kalyan on Wednesday inaugurated 18 Urban Forests, Eco Parks and Community-Based Eco-Tourism Projects across the state, underscoring the need to balance economic growth with environmental conservation.

Launching the projects virtually from his camp office in Mangalagiri , Pawan Kalyan said that development can be truly meaningful and enduring only when it progresses alongside nature. He stressed that future generations should inherit not just roads, buildings and infrastructure, but also a rich natural environment that reflects society’s commitment to ecological preservation.

Describing the newly developed urban forests as the “green lungs” of cities , the Deputy Chief Minister said the initiative comes at a crucial time when rapid urbanisation is shrinking green spaces and placing increasing pressure on natural ecosystems. These urban forests, he said, will help maintain ecological balance, improve air quality and provide citizens with accessible natural spaces for recreation and wellness.

The projects have been developed at a total cost of around ₹36 crore through a combination of funding under the Centre’s Nagar Van Yojana and local resources. Each urban forest has been established over approximately 50 hectares with an investment of nearly ₹2 crore , creating green zones within and around urban centres.

As part of the initiative, the Forest Department has also developed dedicated Red Sanders Conservation Parks at Koduru, Kailasagiri and Madanapalle . These parks aim to promote awareness and conservation of the internationally renowned tree species that is native to the region and holds significant ecological and economic value.

Beyond biodiversity conservation, the projects incorporate elements of India’s cultural heritage through the creation of Nakshatra Vanams and Rashi Vanams , blending traditional knowledge with environmental education. The parks also feature a range of attractions including bird habitats, boating and kayaking facilities, trekking trails, yoga centres and open-air gyms , making them destinations for leisure, fitness and eco-tourism.

Pawan Kalyan noted that such green infrastructure plays a vital role in addressing urban challenges such as rising temperatures, pollution and declining biodiversity. He described the parks as a green legacy for future generations and called upon citizens to actively participate in protecting and maintaining them.

Speaking on the occasion, Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy said he had personally visited the urban forest developed in Nellore Rural and was impressed by its greenery and modern amenities. He suggested linking the nearby Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple with the urban forest through a dedicated trekking route, which could further strengthen both spiritual and adventure tourism in the region.

The virtual inauguration programme was also attended by Ministers Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, Anagani Satya Prasad and Savitha , who hailed the initiative as an important step towards building a cleaner, greener and more sustainable Andhra Pradesh .