In Rangareddy, the promotion of urban forestry by the GHMC’s Urban Biodiversity Wing is not as proactive as before. The Charminar zone, specifically in Rajendra Nagar circle, is facing challenges with decreasing targets for green cover and complaints from residents about the lack of vegetation. Corporate firms under CSR are now the main contributors to green cover promotion, with civic bodies not participating.
The Charminar zone has six circles, and UBD activities mainly focus on developing parks and open spaces rather than beautifying colonies. Last year, Rajendra Nagar Circle only had one major plantation drive, which was criticized for not serving its purpose effectively. The UBD officials provided 11,000 saplings to a college of horticulture in one go, which raised concerns about the logic behind the move.
Despite claiming to achieve 75% of their plantation target last year, this year’s target has been reduced to nearly six lakh saplings. The Deputy Director of UBD Charminar Zone mentioned distribution programs and beautification work in different areas. However, there are doubts about the effectiveness of these efforts in promoting green cover, especially in Rajendra Nagar.
Critics point out that providing forest saplings to a college of horticulture may not be the most strategic move, as the college is already focused on propagating fruit-bearing trees. The lack of enthusiasm and vision from UBD officials in promoting green cover is evident to plant enthusiasts in Rajendra Nagar. Tree guards are no longer provided, and door-to-door distribution of saplings has been neglected, leading to concerns about the future of greenery in the area.
